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The first thing you need to know - it'll be busy!
Whoever said good things come in small packages, has never travelled with oversized luggage.
Bigger often proves better when it comes to your packing – whether it’s having your own surfboard in Bali, favourite Burton in Colorado or real pram that doesn’t collapse on itself every time you hit a bump.
If you’re heading off on an overseas trip and want to BYO, but are worried about tipping the scales at check-in, we’ve got you and that big bag of yours covered.
Let’s take a squiz at flying oversized because that supersized holiday of yours is worth packing properly for.
1. Double-check airline policies
First things first – not all luggage restrictions were written equal. Before pressing panic on your packing, research the size and weight restrictions of your carrier for oversized luggage.
Knowledge is power, so invest in luggage scales to weigh your luggage at home before heading to the airport. You can take it from the hundreds of passengers who do it each day - it’s easier to re-pack luggage when you aren’t surrounded by hundreds of travellers.
Double-check if your chosen airline does priority handling for oversized luggage, as this might be an option for you. This means your gear will be identified with priority tags so they’ll be first off the carousel at your destination.
2. Invest in sturdy luggage
You wouldn’t throw your clothes in a plastic bag and hope for the best on a long haul flight, and you shouldn’t for your gear either.
Most major luggage brands like Samsonite have custom protective covers for everything from bikes to boards, and it pays to invest in a good one.
Add another layer of protection with Protectabag, who will shrink wrap your oversized luggage so it looks like it’s wearing a bondage dress made of sturdy plastic and will prevent scratches and minimise hard knocks.
3. Take out travel insurance
The only thing certain about life is uncertainty, which is how insurance became a six trillion dollar industry.
Needless to say, if you’re concerned about travelling with your gear, find out if your travel insurance covers oversize luggage or if you need to upgrade for your flight.
If your oversized luggage is your equipment for ski season because you’re travelling to one of these 5 magical places to immerse yourself in a white Christmas wonderland, it might be worth double-checking your travel insurance also covers your activities on the mountain too. Most will make you pay a little extra for your fun under the snowflake-sun.
4. Store it properly
When it comes to getting your special cargo safely to its destination, a little extra care goes a long way. If you're planning to BYO bike, you'll be pleased to know many airlines – including Qantas – offer bicycle boxes at check-in, though it's worth checking ahead so you're not caught out.
Travelling with a tiny human in tow? Make sure that pram or car seat is ready for whatever mother nature throws at it with a solid waterproof cover – because nothing says 'welcome to your holiday' quite like soggy baby gear.
For the adventure seekers bringing their toys along (we're looking at you, surfers and snow bunnies), investing in a proper travel bag is essential. Give your gear some TLC with strategic padding – pipe insulation or bubble wrap.
5. Pack smart
If you’re travelling with oversized luggage with its own compartments for clothes, pack like a pro and distribute weight evenly, utilise compression bags and secure fragile items.
Make the most of your oversized luggage space – or leave it empty on the way over to stock with souvenirs on your return.
6. Know your transport options
No one likes to arrive at the airport a lather of sweat from awkwardly carrying all their gear—so consider whether you are able to transport your oversized luggage on public transport or if organising car hire or an extra-large taxi/ride share is the way to go.
If your oversized luggage is something particularly awkward like a surfboard as you jet set to one of these lesser known islands, make sure you opt for roof racks on your hire car for safe travels.
The undercover car park height at the Brisbane Airport International Terminal is 2.3 metres while Domestic P1 is 2.25 metres and Domestic P2 is 2.4 metres. Brisbane Airport provides options for oversize vehicle parking at the International Terminal and AIRPARK.
7. Stay organised
Two suitcases = two labels. Before leaving the house, label your luggage clearly and keep all necessary documents such as baggage claim receipts and boarding passes easily accessible during your time in airport.
You’ll need to allow a little extra time to make it through the terminal with all that gear in tow. Get to the airport early to allow enough time to find different check in areas and carry heavy items.
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