1 in 5 Brits pay excess baggage fees: Surprise findings on overpacking revealed

Natalie Sexton, spokesperson for Ocean Florida, commented: “Overpacking can turn into an expensive mistake, even on long-haul flights where the baggage allowance is usually more generous at 23kg. At Ocean Florida, we want to ensure travellers keep their money for the experiences that matter most, not avoidable baggage fees.”

The survey, conducted with OnePoll and based on responses from over 2,000 British travellers, uncovers the habits leading to excess baggage charges. Despite the growing trend towards efficient travel, many Brits continue to pack far more than they need, leading to higher costs at the check-in desk.

Key Findings from Ocean Florida’s Survey:

21% of Brits have paid last-minute excess baggage fees due to overpacking.35% of travellers pack a "just-in-case" jacket or jumper that is never used.27% bring multiple pairs of shoes that end up unworn.20% pack evening wear for hypothetical fancy dinners that they don’t attend.16% pack workout clothes or equipment, which never see the gym.12% bring gadgets such as hairdryers or travel irons that remain unused.11% pack inflatables, like lilos or flamingos, that never even make it to the pool.

Ocean Florida is on a mission to help Brits avoid paying excess baggage fees, which can reach up to £65 per extra bag each way, or £12 per kilo of overpacking. As one of the busiest times of year for holiday bookings approaches, efficient packing could save travellers more money to enjoy the experiences that truly matter.

Ocean Florida’s Tips for Avoiding Excess Baggage Fees

Write a List: Planning ahead ensures you only pack what you truly need.

Pack Early: Avoid last-minute panic by packing well in advance to make thoughtful choices.

Wear Bulky Clothes: Save space by wearing your heaviest clothes during travel instead of packing them.

Choose Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for clothes that are lightweight and wrinkle-resistant.

Check with Your Airline or Provider: Always confirm your luggage allowance before you start packing.

Buy Toiletries Locally: Particularly in destinations like the USA, where there’s a wide variety of affordable options, consider buying your toiletries after you arrive.

Leave the Gadgets at Home: Many hotels and villas provide hairdryers, irons, and other gadgets—check before packing.

Pack Smart: Skip unnecessary items like inflatables or extra shoes that you may not end up using.

Why Are Brits Overpacking?

The research suggests overpacking is often driven by the desire to be prepared for every scenario. 24% of respondents admitted to packing extra items just in case, while 18% packed more than necessary to avoid “missing out” on anything. However, these items frequently go unused, leading to avoidable excess baggage fees.

As the busiest period for holiday bookings approaches, it’s the perfect time to rethink your packing habits. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your luggage is lighter, saving you time, stress, and unnecessary baggage fees—leaving more room for the experiences that truly matter on your trip.