Just a heads up to those of you flying in for the con. Some airlines just instituted a $25 charge for checking a second bag effective yesterday and more will have it in effect by June 1st. So if you planned on taking an empty bag to bring back loot you might want to rethink that and weigh the costs of checking the bag versus shipping stuff back. Also watch those carryon bags as the new charge will make some people try to cram a larger bag into the overhead compartment.

Also there are rumors of mergers all around so if you're using miles or have concerns about your flight I'd suggest checking with the airline to make sure you're in good shape. I know the Delta/Northwest thing is going through (pending gov't approval) and USAir and United are in talks to formalize their arrangement (they are "partners" or something now). So just be aware that air travel is going to be interesting this summer.

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the 25 dollar fee would only be for the trip back, I put a second bag inside my suitcase last year.

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Yeah, for a package the size of a checked bag, I think the postage would be about $25 anyway. I will have an extra bag for sure just in case.

Also, you can have two carry ons. One has to be a certain size, the other can be a backpack.

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I just didn't want anyone to be surprised when they go to check that second bag on the way home and get pissed about the charge. And they're probably going to be a lot stricter on the carryon guidelines now with this new 1 bag deal. Just be aware, that's all I'm saying.

I'm sure if you're picking up a lot of big or boxed stuff the charge to ship versus the bag charge would be pretty close. Depends on who the con has for shipping. Last year it was FedEx I think and they are more expensive for ground than say UPS but cheaper than the post office. But you've gotta weigh the charges for yourself. AND remember to not spend all your fun money on booze and strippers (wait that was just me) and save some for either the shipper or airline.

And I'm not sure if all airlines will be doing this or not. I haven't heard about Southwest or Jetblue doing it but I know some of the other majors are. Best to ask first and be prepared.

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Thanks, this info is helpful even though I'm not going to the con. I am flying home on friday, though. Thanks for the heads up!

And I noticed that US Air has a length limit, too. I didn't read it too closely, but I know that 62 inches is the general limit.

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It is best for everyone to check on their particular airline they are flying. I am flying American and they are starting the extra bag charge for tickets bought after May 11th. Since I bought my tickets well before that, my extra bag will still be free.

It makes sense for them to go by the date you bought the ticket and not the date you fly. Someone could sue them for bait and switch otherwise. As it stands now, you could still buy your ticket with American today and get the extra bag for free.

UPDATE: Here is the link to American's bagage policy.
http://www.aa.com/aa/i18nForward.do?p=/ ... BagFee.jsp

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