Good day, all.
My apologies MODs as I couldn't find a subforum that would fit this, as I was between "apparel/fashion" and "travel", so if this fits somewhere else, please let me know or feel free to move it.
Without getting into too much detail, Australia is no longer home and we're leaving ASAP.
Can I please ask for recommendations on good quality but inexpensive large travel bags that can take a beating as we'll have to ping around a few airports before settling finally on a destination?
I'm not a big traveller and in fact, have only travelled internationally once, so not sure what brands/models I should be going for, while at the same time, we can't spend a lot of money, as we'll have to focus on covering our costs and life in the new location for a good long while.
At first, we'll need 2 large bags, but depending on how much an extra bag costs with the air traffic companies, I may got for a total of 4 extra instead of 2 (we already have 2 bags that should suit our needs).
I'm willing to spend approx $200 or so per luggage bag.
I appreciate your input and time dedicated to helping a mate out.
Thanks
Yes, that is good advice Tovers93.
I like flying United because it allows 2 bags between the US and Australia for economy even still today. A shocking difference is, I just looked at their updated policy and it now costs $100USD for the 2nd bag if you travel between the US and New Zealand which it never did before, it used to be free as well.
I believe Qantas only allows 1 bag for domestic travel, but if you are booked through to your final destination purchasing via United, which is a Qantas partner, then Qantas honors the 2 free bag policy.
When I was going back to the States before the pandemic it only cost $100USD for a 3rd bag, now it costs $200USD plus if that 3rd bag is over the 50lb limit that's another $100USD to 70lbs while 71lbs to 100lbs is $200USD.
Also besides an excess baggage charge and over weight charge there is also an over linear dimensions charge (which used to be it was just the height that was worried about).
It used to be one standard rule and charge regarding each overage and excess, but now I see with United it varies between which region or country you are traveling to and sometimes between which city within a country. All the more reason to check an airlines' website to determine the additional costs.
I also like Southwest Airlines for travel within the US and some outlying areas because it still has the 2 free checked bags policy.
For carry-on bags in the US, none of the airlines weigh carry-ons at check in nor is there someone who will stop you before going through security screening or boarding to weigh your carry-on. I've had 50 lb carry-ons a number of times. I know in Australia I was shocked I couldn't go over the equivalent of 22 lbs for carry-ons. Only if when you are ready to step onto the plane from the boarding bridge and it appears you are struggling with a too large/ too heavy carry on or you have too many carry-ons, will the air host or hostess tell you either 1) you have to stow the bag(s) at the back of the plane away from your seat or 2) the bag(s) will be sent down at the last minute with the wheelchairs and strollers to go under the plane with the checked luggage. That is done at no cost so many people, of course, lug some huge heavy carry-on up along the bridge, knowing full well it will be taken off them, but that way they avoid any excess charges if they checked the bag at the counter initially..