British Airways to change baggage policy

Josh Roberts believes the best trips involve long hikes and muddy boots. His life goals haven't changed much since he was a kid: He still wants to be Indiana Jones when he grows up.

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British Airways is making some revisions to its baggage policies. The first wave of changes, effective July 5, focuses on carry-on baggage. The highlight of the revised policy is the removal of current weight-limit restrictions for carry-on items. There will no longer be a limit; if you can lift your bag into the overhead bin without assistance, you can take it on the plane. Actual size limitations will still apply, however.

The second phase of revisions applies to checked baggage. Beginning July 12, if you have excess baggage beyond the allowance for free checked bags, you can pre-pay for your excess baggage online and receive a 20-percent discount on airport charges. Starting October 11, extra baggage charges will be “standardized across the network” and will be charged a fixed fee based upon the length of the journey. Also effective October 11, says the airline, “We will no longer be able to carry pets as baggage… These will only be carried as cargo.”

British Airways is not the first airline to implement baggage policy changes. Earlier this year, Ryanair made similar moves aimed at checked luggage.

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