Baggage allowance for windsurfers
By Mike Rees
When travelling overseas with bulky equipment, contact your airline to determine the exact weight restrictions in place.
Baggage allowances determined by the airlines will depend on a number of factors, for example the fare paid, class, route and aircraft type.
In general, most airlines set a 'free baggage allowance'. This allowance will be expressed by 'weight' or by 'piece'. Weights for checked-in luggage in economy range from 15-23kg, and check-in fees vary from free up to £40 per piece of luggage, per way.
"If you really want to travel with your own kit, it's vital you choose an airline that offers the best deal on excess baggage, preferably with flat rates for 'sporting goods luggage'."
If you're taking your own equipment, additional costs will apply for windsurf luggage transfers. If you really want to travel with your own kit, it's vital you choose an airline that offers the best deal on excess baggage, preferably with flat rates for 'sporting goods luggage'. You then use their rules to optimise the weight of kit you carry.
Two small boards can often be packed as one, but it helps if your boards are lightweight. It is advised that you travel with the lightest board bag that still looks padded enough to protect your gear. Modern windsurf masts are less bulky than they were and these can be strapped to the board bag, perhaps with two masts doubled up in the mast bag they were supplied in.
Leading windsurfer Guy Cribb adds: "Make sure your board bags don't weigh over 32kgs or they can not be carried. But also make sure your board bags are close to 32kgs. For example put some clothes in there to ensure your normal bag does not exceed its 20kg limit."
Take a look at our guide to the additional costs levied by selected airlines.
Remember to book your airport parking, airport hotel and airport lounge with HolidayExtras.com.
Most read
Most shared
Join us today, start saving up to 60%
Sign up to our newsletter and receive special offers and product information.
Follow Holiday Extras
A brilliant way to stay up-to-date with the latest news and offers from Holiday Extras.
We constantly update our Holiday Extras Twitter so you never feel out of the loop.
Follow @holidayextras
Comment on this article