Checking or shipping the luggage - that is the question

You’ve never thought of shipping your baggage ahead of you, if you’re like most tourists. Instead of having the TSA root through your suitcase, you can mail some presents to your destination during holidays.

But is it still a problem? Though most main airlines mishandle luggage in record numbers, they still charge tourists to check the first or second bag on domestic flights. Beware if your bag weighs more than enough – prepare $50 or more in penalties on top of all other fees you’ve already paid for that bag checking.

In opposite, shipping luggage may seem a much more attractive decision. While shipping a suitcase is still a bit more expensive, than checking it, recently the airport fees have almost equaled the cost difference, and what you get in reliability and convenience is worth paying the extra money.

We’ve outlined cons, costs and pros of bag checking vs. luggage shipping, to help weigh your opinions. Here we have information on delivery services and specialty luggage services.

Note that shipping is not an economy option if you’re flying overseas. Shipping luggage outside the US can simply cost as much as your plane tickets.

Luggage checking

The price for bag checking varies by airline. On domestic flights, most airlines have started charging passengers to check a single bag. Southwest and JetBlue still allow checking one bag for free. And you will definitely have to pay beyond that first bag, except Southwest – on JetBlue it’s $20, and on all others they take $25.

It’s still the cheapest option. It’s also convenient if you’re a last-minute-passenger. When everything works fine, your bags arrive the same time you do.

Your bags can be lost or mishandled. You’ll be standing in line just for checking your luggage before the flight, and do the same thing at the arrival. And you’ll pay penalties if you’re checking more than one bag or if it’s overweight.

Delivery services

The cost varies. Depends on the weight and size of your luggage, distance, and the speed of service you select. A 40-pound bag sent from New York to San Francisco in five days is priced $49.72 by UPS. More weight or faster delivery costs more.

These services are reliable enough. They’re not as expensive as luggage services. You don’t have to wait in line just to check one bag.

Luggage shipping companies

The lowest price for sending a 40-pound bag from San Francisco to New York would be around $100, four to seven days.

You get a lot of personal service. Luggage arrives on time.

The price is high. And you need to pack ahead enough before your trip.