Excess Baggage and Other Considerations for Asia
Holiday Preparation to Suit Your Circumstances
May 3, 2009
In view of the global economic downturn, international and domestic air carriers have drastically reduced airfares to all destinations but they have become more stringent in the areas of check in baggage and carry on baggage. A number of discount carriers have always had strict guidelines in these areas. However, there is an increasing trend for the full service airlines to now to administer their guidelines and in a lot of cases reduce the allowances for baggage. Now more than ever travellers need to prepare for the individual circumstances of their travel plans and consider the most appropriate options when purchasing luggage and other travel related items and what is necessary with regard to garments, toiletries, shoes, laundry and electrical appliances.
What to consider when purchasing luggage
Luggage with wheels is a great invention however; it is not always the best choice for a holiday especially if your adventure takes you off the beaten track. Remember the wheeling apparatus add weight and bulk to your luggage and the wheels attached to most luggage are inadequate on uneven surfaces. All airports offer wheeled trolleys and most hotels offer to take your luggage to and from your room. For travellers who are exploring beyond the city areas, wheels can be more of a hindrance than a help but for those that may have difficulty in lifting etc wheeled luggage may be a necessary option. Price is another consideration when purchasing luggage and usually you get what you pay for. More expensive luggage will offer a stronger structure but when you consider that baggage handlers need to accommodate luggage in confined spaces no consideration will be given to how much you paid for your luggage as it is squeezed into tight areas. Other considerations with regard to price are frequency of use, likely travel destinations and what modes of transport you are likely to use.
What to consider when packing
Clothes – it is very important to research the climate and likely weather of your intended destinations and be aware of the daytime and night time temperatures and average precipitation for the time of intended travel. For cooler climates it is good to consider layering your clothes rather than heavy, bulky items. Make yourself aware of the local customs of the countries of your intended travel as some countries for example; shorts and singlets are not acceptable. Also be aware of your requirements in regard to your intended activities as in some cases hiring equipment and clothing is a far cheaper and less cumbersome option. Packing fewer clothes and using laundry options is often more practical.
Electrical appliances – consider leaving most electrical appliances at home. Certainly you will need to pack your camera and phone recharger and/or rechargeable batteries together with the correct mains power point adapter for the power system of your intended destination. Any appliance required for medical conditions is essential however you will need to ask yourself if the hair straightener, hair drier, electric razor and travel iron are really needed. Some travellers use a combination of oil of cloves and water in a spray container as an alternative to ironing clothes.
Toiletries – consider the bulk and weight of each item you pack. Pharmacies and supermarkets offer a range of smaller shampoos, conditioners, body washes, deodorants and moisturisers specifically for travel purposes. If you are travelling with a companion consider what items you can share. Remember with carry on baggage there are limitations as to the volume of liquid in each container.
Other considerations
When travelling in Asia you will be required to access your travel documents both on entry and departure from each country as well as within borders at a variety of check points. It would be prudent to purchase at least one document wallet that is suitable either to wear on the body or be easily accessible from your carry luggage or day back pack.
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