SHOPPERS are snapping up a discounted travel essential that could help dodge a major airline’s upcoming baggage fees.
Fans say the pastel pink hanging toiletry bag is “perfect” for packing light and beating new carry-on rules set to hit flyers this May.
AFPTravelers are running to Target to buy budget toiletry bag that could help save them Southwest bag fee (stock image)[/caption] Target’s pastel pink travel toiletry bag is available for $18.67The Glamlily Large Travel Hanging Toiletry Bag is available at Target for $18.67 and is designed to maximize storage without taking up precious space or triggering baggage charges.
The budget-friendly bag is being pitched as a timely solution after Southwest Airlines announced it will scrap its decades-old free checked bag policy starting May 28.
The Dallas-based airline confirmed the move in March, sparking backlash from longtime loyalists who saw free bags as a major perk.
Customers browsing travel gear are now turning to compact, multipurpose products that help them travel lighter and cheaper.
The Glamlily toiletry bag has five compartments, including two large ones, and features an “S” hook that allows it to hang in tight spaces like plane lavatories or Airbnb bathrooms.
It’s made from wipe-clean polyester with a PU leather handle and folds down to just 13 x 4.5 x 9.75 inches, small enough to tuck into most carry-ons or weekender bags.
One reviewer who packed it for a weekend getaway said, “It helped keep me organized. I definitely recommend it.”
“It was bigger than I thought it would be but I don’t mind because it fit so much of my stuff perfectly,” another said.
“Perfect for holding everything and I love how it hangs on a hook for easy access when I arrive at my destination,” a customer shared.
“Soon to take a vacay and the Airbnb we’re staying in has a pedestal style sink… perfect solution!! Lots of compartments!!” added another.
SOUTHWEST SHAKEUP
The new Southwest fees will apply to both first and second checked bags, a major change for a carrier that had prided itself on standing apart from rivals like Delta, American, and United.
Passengers flying on business fares, holding Southwest credit cards, or enrolled in the loyalty program will still be allowed to check bags for free.
But others will need to pack smarter or pay up.
Southwest hasn’t revealed the exact pricing yet, but the impact is expected to be significant, especially for budget-conscious flyers.
Southwest's recent changes
Baggage fees introduced – For the first time in over 50 years, Southwest will start charging passengers for checked bags. This applies to tickets purchased on or after May 28, except for top-tier fare classes, certain credit card holders, and elite frequent flyers. New economy fare – Southwest will launch a basic economy fare, similar to competitors, offering lower-priced tickets with fewer perks. Rapid Rewards changes – Frequent flyer miles will now be based on how much customers spend, rather than the number of flights taken. Flight redemption rates will also shift to a dynamic pricing model, meaning they’ll cost more during peak times. Flight credit expiry – Flight credits for tickets purchased after May 28 will expire after one year, or sooner, depending on the ticket type. Layoffs and cost cuts – Southwest recently announced its first mass layoffs, cutting 1,750 corporate jobs, about 15% of its headquarters staff, to reduce costs. End of open seating – In July 2024, Southwest announced plans to ditch its open seating policy, a core part of its brand for over 50 years, and move to assigned seating with premium options for extra legroom. Executive shakeups – The airline parted ways with its chief transformation officer Ryan Green, who warned against baggage fees. It also replaced its long-time finance chief and chief administrative officer earlier this year. Route and program cuts – Southwest has cut unprofitable routes, summer internships, and employee team-building events, long-standing traditions the airline held for decades.Source: CNBC
Even under its former free-bag policy, the airline still collected $73 million in baggage fees in 2023, and $62 million in 2024, data shows.
Analysts believe the reversal was likely driven by investor pressure after Elliott Investment Management took a $1.9 billion stake last year.
Since then, Southwest has rolled out major changes, including red-eye flights, assigned seating, and listing flights on third-party platforms like Google Flights and Kayak.
The shift toward competing on price instead of perks may have opened the door to baggage charges, despite past promises from leadership to keep bags free.
And while some reviews complained about the product’s color, one calling it an “odd pink that looks faded,” most agreed that the function outweighed the flaw.
“I’m keeping it regardless because it’s the perfect solution and I can get over the color,” the reviewer wrote.
REAL ID DEADLINE LOOMS
Travelers trying to avoid new airline fees may still hit a wall at airport security if they don’t have a REAL ID.
Starting May 7, all US flyers 18 and older must show a Starting May 7, travelers 18 and older will need REAL ID-compliant license or an approved alternative like a passport, Global Entry, or military ID to board domestic flights.
TSA says it’s bracing for confusion and long delays, warning that up to 20% of passengers, about 500,000 travelers, could be delayed or turned away.
“Identity verification is a lynchpin in security, and we will make sure that passengers are verified as being who they say they are,” Spokesman Carter Langston told CNBC.
Travelers without compliant ID should arrive at least three hours early for domestic flights, the agency advises.
DMVs nationwide are seeing a last-minute surge of people rushing to upgrade, with some sleeping in cars or resorting to buying “scalped” appointment slots.
To avoid long lines, officials recommend visiting DMV offices during midday or looking farther from home for available appointments.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Target selling discounted ‘space saver’ travel essential that makes packing a breeze – fans say it’s ‘perfect’ solution )
Also on site :