Most unpleasant surprises at the airport have to do with luggage: the suitcase is too big for the cabin, the bag is over the weight limit or a wheel breaks on the belt. These tips help you avoid all three.

1. Check the cabin size before you fly

Every airline has its own limit, and bags are measured including wheels and handles. On our suitcase pages, next to the plane sign, you can see which airlines accept the chosen size as cabin baggage. Low-cost airlines often include only a small bag that fits under the seat, and a cabin suitcase costs extra - read the fare conditions before you buy.

2. Removable wheels

Some suitcases have removable wheels. Take them off before check-in and pack them inside: wheels are what most often gets damaged on belts and during loading. Without its wheels the suitcase is also lower by their height, which helps when a cabin bag is right at the limit. Any of our stores will show you how the wheels come off and go back on.

3. Weigh your suitcase at home

Your checked baggage allowance is on your ticket (in economy often 20 or 23 kg). Weigh your suitcase at home with a luggage scale, or weigh yourself first and then with the suitcase in your hands - the difference is the suitcase. The suitcase’s own weight counts too, so a light suitcase leaves more of the allowance for your things.

4. Locks: combination or TSA

Change the factory code of a combination lock before the trip and write it down somewhere you will not lose it. On flights to or through the USA, security may open your suitcase: they open TSA locks with a special key instead of breaking them.

5. What belongs in your hand luggage

Always keep documents, money, cards, essential medicines, keys and chargers in your hand luggage. Power banks and spare lithium batteries are not allowed in checked baggage - they may only travel in the cabin.

6. Liquids

Liquids in hand luggage usually have to be in containers of up to 100 ml in one clear bag. Some airports have new scanners with softer rules - check your airport’s website before you fly. Pack the rest of your cosmetics in a cosmetic case in your checked suitcase.

7. Make your suitcase easy to spot

Many suitcases look alike. Add a bright tag or ribbon and write your name and phone number on the tag - not your home address. Take a photo of your suitcase before check-in: if it goes missing, the photo makes the search easier.

8. If your suitcase is damaged or does not arrive

Before you leave the airport, go to the airline’s baggage desk, have a report written and keep it. Without this report, compensation is hard to get.

Choosing a suitcase or have a question? Write to us or visit any of our stores - we are happy to help.