As airlines look for every revenue opportunity, it is time to rethink your strategy on various topics;

Checked luggage for domestic travel – A lower weight limit (50lbs per item) is becoming more common and rigidly enforced. Coupled with a fee to check luggage and the idea of paying an airline to possibly lose your luggage is less appealing than ever….I rarely check my luggage domestically but rely on UPS (or Luggage Forward for more complex trips) to handle my shipping needs. The cost is competitive and with what the airlines charge, you can track your luggage…and they rarely lose it. Check in online before departing for the airport and the only line you stand in is for security. Even as a premium flyer when airlines waive baggage fees, I think you will be quite satisfied with the small inconvenience of planning ahead, on your schedule….rather than standing in various lines…on the airlines schedule!

You will be surprised how quickly UPS can deliver packages via their ground service. I can ship golf clubs (approx 17lbs) from Wilmington, NC to Philadelphia in 2 days for $11.

When you ship your luggage include a return label for the homeward journey and enjoy the same convenience in reverse. It works wonders and will take some stress of your game.

International shipping with customs requirements and cost is far more complicated and expensive.