Packing for Space-A travel Published April 4, 2011 By Master Sgt. Kenneth Morain 730th Air Mobility Squadron YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Who's a fan of commercial airlines now charging for checked bags? Some are even considering additional carry-on charges, not to mention the strict weight and size restrictions. Since these fees can eat into your vacation budget, why not take advantage of space-available travel? Not only is it a much cheaper alternative ... sometimes free, in fact ... but Air Mobility Command baggage restrictions aren't as strict as the commercial alternative. Space-available travel is truly dependent on the remaining seats of each flight that haven't been filled by space-required passengers and subject to frequent changes. But, if your plans are flexible then pack your bags and get ready to move out! AMC's standard baggage allowance is two bags per person up to 70 pounds and 62 linear inches per bag, at no additional cost on larger aircraft like the C-5 or KC-10. Our smaller aircraft have additional baggage limitations for your safety. For example, if you hop on a C-21, although the size dimensions remain the same, the weight allowance per bag drops to 30 pounds. Our passenger service representatives are accommodating as well when it comes to pooling your family's baggage. If you have three people in your travel party you can check-in six bags at 70 lbs each for no additional charge. The savings to you would be more than $300 of what would have been spent flying on a commercial airline. Additionally, you are allowed to have one carry-on and one personal item such as a computer carrying case or purse. Your carry-on can only be 45 linear inches and passenger terminals have baggage bins cut to proper dimensions to help right-size your gear. Travelers are reminded it is best to pack as light as you can because depending on the circumstances, you may have to carry those bags to and from air terminals and hotels as you make your way around the theater. You will also need that extra room in your bags for all those handmade souvenirs coming back with you! Finally, we recognize that accidents happen and recommend that you place a copy of your leave form or simply a piece of paper stating your name, address, and telephone number inside your luggage. This will greatly assist passenger service representatives in the event your luggage is temporarily lost. Hopefully, we have prepared you for your travel adventure. However, if you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact your nearest passenger terminal or visit us on the web at www.amc.af.mil/amctravel. If you have any comments, questions or ideas for other articles please e-mail us at pacific.traveler@yokota.af.mil