Shipping baggage by ground to your destination with UPS, Fedex, etc. rather than lugging it around airports!
This article on Frommers by George Hobica offers more details on this idea.
Now that’s something that I’ve never considered but will definitely look into in the future… I don’t think it’s workable for all trips, but there are many that it will work for.
Now maybe this sounds a bit silly at first blush, but bear with me for a bit. Given that:
• Many airlines charge extra to check your baggage;
• Those charges are large if your baggage is heavier than 50lbs.;
• The ever increasing rules, checks, line-ups x-rays and security inspections of all baggage;
• The ongoing problem with theft and/or damage to your stuff by baggage handlers;
• The rare but seemingly “no-fault” way airlines treat losing your bags (They lost the Stanley Cup again this week!)
Maybe this isn’t such a wacky idea after all.
The advantages of using Purolator/Canada Post/UPS/Fedex etc. are:
• By shipping your baggage ahead of your arrival by 4 or 5 days, you can save money; especially if you’re sending oversize or overweight baggage.
• You will have accurate shipment tracking which the airlines have not figured out.
• Better security, less damage and ability to insure against loss.
• You can move through the airport without waiting in ever-increasing lines to check in your bags with the airlines.
• If traveling for work, your company might have special rates with Fedex/UPS. Bring your stuff to work to ship and expense it (check with accounting).
Of course there are trade offs. This works best if your destination includes family, friends or a branch office who can receive the shipment. Some hotels will charge extra for looking after your shipment (and they can lose stuff!).
However some hotels are offering this as a free service. Ask!
Who woulda thunk it?
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[...] using UPS, Fedex or similar. More and more people are following this advice – see this ship your bags article. Airlines refuse to pay for many things that you might carry in your bag – basically [...]