Too Much to Carry?
We have heard that some airlines will waive the fee for checked baggage if the
baggage contains medical supplies. If the airline you have chosen will not — and
it may be worth inquiring before you finalize your ticket purchase — there are
alternatives to checking those bags.
Shipping medical supplies or other necessities to your destination before you
leave on a trip may be cheaper than paying the airlines for checked baggage—and
it will make it easier for you in the airport. The old stand-bys for shipping
include Federal Express, UPS, and the U.S. Postal Service. Depending on your
destination, you may be able to ship supplies by bus, as well.
Further, as more airlines are charging for baggage, more companies are emerging
to provide alternatives. Companies like Luggage Forward, First Luggage, and
Direct Baggage (based in the U.K.) will pick up your baggage at your home and
deliver it to your destination. The least expensive alternative we’ve found so
far is the “economy” option through Luggage Free, which advertises “50 pounds
for $50.” They ship medical supplies domestically; inquire about rules for
international travel. Some airlines offer services similar to those offered by
Luggage Free.
Alternative Shipping Options
We’ve compiled this list of companies by searching the Internet; it is by no
means exhaustive. Be sure to research your options with your airline, check for
updates online, or consult with a travel agent. Oley has no experience with any
of these carriers, and therefore cannot vouch for their reliability. If you’ve
found other reliable, reasonably priced ways to ship your medical supplies, we’d
love to hear about them. Send your tips to Lisa Metzger at
metzgel@mail.amc.edu, or call her at
(800) 776-OLEY.
Direct Baggage www.directbaggage.com
(intern’l # only)
First Luggage www.firstluggage.com
(800) 224-5781
Luggage Ahead www.luggageahead.com
(888) 395-4410
Luggage Concierge
www.luggageconcierge.com (800) 288-9818
Luggage Express
www.myluggageexpress.com (866) 744-7224
Luggage Forward www.luggageforward.com
(866) 416-7447
Luggage Free
www.luggagefreeeconomy.com (800) 361-6871
Sports Express www.sportsexpress.com
(800) 357-4174
The Luggage Club www.theluggageclub.com
(877) 231-5131
May/June 2010 LifelineLetter