There was a time, back in the unenlightened days, when I could throw a few t-shirts and shorts in a bag and go away for a week. I didn't care what I wore. I packed for only myself.
I'm sure I was less 'GQ-like' in my appearance. But, it was a casual time for me and, as I said, I didn't care.
That was then, this is now.
# Baggage Allowance: For each ticketed Customer, Southwest allows three (3) checked pieces with size limitations for each individual piece.
# Excess Baggage: Excess baggage will be charged at the rate of $50.00 for the first (1st) through the ninth (9th) extra bag and $110.00 for each piece checked thereafter.
# Weight and Size Allowance: Maximum weight is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height) per checked piece of luggage. Effective March 1, 2005, overweight items from 51 to 70 pounds will be accepted for a charge of $25.00 per item.
Traveling with Helaine and Stef is an entirely different adventure in packing. Not only do we have to take what is necessary to be stylish - we need options!
I am told the suitcase to the left is by no means full. However, last night, Stef got on the scale in the bathroom to weigh it... and at that time we were 49 pounds into the 50 pound allowance. Of course with three bags per passenger, we can split the load into other suitcases.
Think about it for a second. Three bags per person at 50 pounds per bag, plus any carry ons we take. That about ¼ ton! Maybe I should have waited until after the trip to write that.
I will gladly admit to dressing much better on the road than the jeans and t-shirt days. On the other hand, I am the chief lugger of this luggage and feel each and every pound.
When I kvetch, and I have, Helaine offers me the option of packing myself. That, in a nutshell, is why I'll tote and carry and be quiet about it... and, I'll look damned stylish on vacation.
keds or converse?