Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Pre-book excess baggage online for 20% savings

If you're traveling with Qatar Airways and anticipate needing to check more than your standard baggage allowance, consider pre-booking your excess baggage online. Doing so can lead to substantial savings, potentially up to 20% off the standard rate, if you book at least three hours prior to departure. In some cases, pre-purchasing a larger amount of extra baggage in bulk can even unlock savings of up to 70%.

However, be mindful that baggage fees fluctuate based on your destination and travel class. Don't wait until you're at the airport to deal with this – airport charges can quickly escalate, potentially reaching $255 or more for a last-minute additional bag. To maximize your savings and avoid hefty fees, plan ahead, understand the baggage allowance for your ticket type, and pre-book online to take advantage of these potential cost-saving opportunities.

If you're planning on bringing more than the standard allowance, consider booking your extra baggage through Qatar Airways online. This can result in a cost savings of up to 20% compared to paying at the airport. It seems airlines have a knack for maximizing revenue from these fees, so securing your extra weight allowance ahead of time is usually a good strategy.

There's a noticeable difference between the cost of booking extra baggage online versus paying at the airport. In certain cases, there can be a significant price difference, particularly when booking near your departure time where charges can be a hefty $255 for an additional bag. You'll see this kind of situation with many airlines, so pre-booking with Qatar Airways offers a way to mitigate these expenses with some planning.

The method is fairly straightforward; you can usually enter your booking reference or ticket number along with your last name on their website. It's worth noting that the allowed luggage weight differs based on your travel class. For instance, Economy Class generally comes with a 23 kg allowance. While this might seem sufficient, there's always a risk of exceeding this with souvenirs or gifts. Consider that pre-booking allows you to effectively pack more with fewer worries about airport charges.

Finally, remember that baggage rules can vary depending on your flight route and fare type. A quick check of the rules before you travel is always worthwhile, as it can save you from some potentially large surprises. You might be surprised how often the fine print is easily overlooked!

What else is in this post?

1. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Pre-book excess baggage online for 20% savings
2. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Bulk purchase discounts up to 70% off
3. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Weight limit of 32 kg per checked bag
4. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Privilege Club members enjoy extra baggage discounts
5. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Special item policies for sports gear and instruments
6. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Oneworld alliance perks for frequent flyers
7. Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Route-specific baggage allowances to maximize savings

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Bulk purchase discounts up to 70% off

If you're flying with Qatar Airways and anticipate needing to check more luggage than your standard allowance, explore the possibility of bulk purchasing your excess baggage. Pre-purchasing extra baggage in bulk, whether online, through their offices, or via their call center, can deliver impressive discounts—up to 70% off standard rates. You can incrementally increase your baggage allowance by 5 kg blocks, up to a maximum of 100 kg, which is useful for travelers who might be bringing back many souvenirs or simply need more space.

While the exact cost varies depending on your final destination, keep in mind that it's generally much cheaper to secure your excess baggage needs ahead of time. For instance, you might find an extra 50-pound (23 kg) bag costs around $200 when prepaid but could be far higher at the airport. The lesson is clear: by buying this in bulk online, you are making a smart move to control your budget and reduce the chances of costly surprises at the airport. Airport charges for unplanned luggage can really sting, and airlines often appear to make a decent amount of profit from this. It's a straightforward strategy to ensure a more affordable travel experience. Ultimately, planning ahead and taking advantage of Qatar Airways' bulk discount program is a great way to minimize baggage-related expenses and focus on the joy of your travels.

1. **The Allure of Bulk Discounts:** The idea of a 70% discount on excess baggage, especially when presented as a bulk purchase, can be incredibly attractive to travelers. It plays on our ingrained desire for a "good deal," potentially overshadowing a rational assessment of whether we actually need that much extra weight allowance.


2. **The Ever-Shifting Landscape of Baggage Rules:** Airline policies regarding baggage weight and fees are a constantly evolving landscape. What's considered a "bulk discount" with Qatar Airways in one region or season might not be the same elsewhere. Checking specific details before booking is vital to avoid surprises.


3. **The Pre-Booking Advantage:** Planning ahead and pre-booking your excess baggage can bring significant benefits. Studies show that pre-booking can alleviate the anxiety of potential hefty fees at the airport, allowing travelers to focus on the joys of travel instead of worrying about unexpected charges.


4. **Loss Aversion & Its Influence:** A principle known as "loss aversion" suggests we're more likely to pay to avoid losing something we value (like not having enough baggage allowance) than we are to gain something of equal value. Airlines, with their bulk purchase options, can leverage this human tendency.


5. **The Art of Upselling:** Airlines often use a tiered pricing system for baggage, where incremental increases in allowance offer seemingly "better deals" with discounts. When we think we're getting a fantastic bargain, it can make us more susceptible to buying more baggage than we truly require.


6. **The Rise of Extra Luggage:** Travel data reveals an increase in the demand for extra baggage, particularly during busy travel seasons. Discounts and promotions, like bulk purchases, can contribute to this trend, potentially leading to passengers exceeding their needs.


7. **Misjudging Our Luggage Weight:** It's surprisingly common to underestimate the weight of our luggage. A notable percentage of travelers have been caught off guard by unexpected baggage fees because of this. Bulk purchase options allow some travelers to offset the risk of exceeding the free allowance, especially for those with packing-heavy travel habits.


8. **A Global Baggage Fee Landscape:** A comparison of fees across different regions shows that excess baggage policies vary significantly. You might see substantially different charges in North America compared to Europe. Being aware of these differences can help make smarter choices when pre-purchasing baggage.


9. **The Psychology of Preparedness:** Research reveals that travelers who carefully organize and pre-plan their baggage and costs experience less travel-related anxiety. Bulk discounts provide a sense of control and structure around these costs, thus contributing to a more enjoyable travel experience.


10. **Awareness is Key to Better Travel Budgeting:** A surprising number of regular travelers are unaware of the bulk purchase options available for excess baggage. Raising awareness and educating passengers about these discounts could help them achieve better travel budgeting and realize significant savings.

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Weight limit of 32 kg per checked bag

When flying with Qatar Airways, be aware that each checked bag is limited to a weight of 32 kg, or about 70 pounds. If your bag weighs more, you'll need to repack it into multiple bags, each under the 32 kg limit. This can create headaches, especially if you're planning to buy souvenirs. And, of course, going over the limit means added expenses. Overweight bags typically incur fees around $200 USD on most routes, which can quickly escalate the cost of your trip. Although there are potential savings from pre-booking online for excess baggage, it's important to be mindful of the weight limits to avoid costly surprises at the airport. It pays to carefully understand Qatar Airways' baggage rules, especially if you're a budget-conscious traveler who's aiming to minimize expenses and keep your travel plans on track. It's a good idea to be realistic with your packing so you don't end up with unforeseen fees and a less enjoyable travel experience.

1. **Aircraft Design & Weight Limits:** The 32 kg (70 lb) limit per checked bag on Qatar Airways flights is fundamentally linked to the aircraft's design and operational parameters. It seems to be about ensuring the plane's weight distribution remains within safe limits for fuel efficiency and structural soundness.

2. **Weight & Balance in Flight:** Maintaining a balanced aircraft is crucial for a smooth and safe flight. Bags exceeding the limit can disrupt the aircraft's center of gravity calculations, potentially impacting the flight crew's handling. One can imagine how complex the mathematics behind balancing a large jet with hundreds of people and tons of luggage and fuel must be.

3. **The Psychology of Excess Baggage Fees:** Airline pricing structures seem to be skillfully designed. The baggage fees (and the 32 kg weight limit) may nudge travelers into a certain spending behavior. Travelers often buy just a bit more weight allowance, rather than risking hefty fees at the airport. There's something intriguing in how our brains perceive that as a “good deal,” at least until the baggage arrives at the carousel with a surprising weight.

4. **Baggage Handling Safety & Efficiency:** The 32 kg weight limit seems to be connected to practical considerations related to ground handling and worker safety. Workers can handle bags up to a certain weight more easily and with reduced risk of injuries. It's easy to see how it could become unsafe and inefficient if the bags are too heavy.

5. **Travelers' Packing Habits:** It's apparently very common for travelers to underestimate how much they will actually pack. The 32 kg limit acts as a mental guide, encouraging travelers to be more thoughtful about their baggage. It appears that the weight limit also helps to reduce excessive packing that could otherwise contribute to higher baggage fees.

6. **Global Aviation Standards:** It's quite likely that Qatar Airways' 32 kg limit is consistent with rules and regulations outlined by global aviation bodies. This type of alignment facilitates smoother operations for Qatar Airways flights at various international airports, streamlining baggage handling procedures.

7. **The Economics of Overweight Baggage:** Overweight bags can be a burden to manage operationally. The significant fees, which are around $200 or more for overweight baggage, may serve a dual purpose: to discourage excessive packing and possibly help offset the costs associated with managing extra-large or heavy items.

8. **Impact of Airline Alliances:** Qatar Airways' involvement with other airlines through alliances might also affect their baggage policies. There could be agreements regarding weight allowances to make it easier for travelers who move between different airlines in one itinerary.

9. **The Rise of Lightweight Luggage:** It seems that many travelers are slowly but surely becoming more aware of baggage weight limits. This has sparked a trend toward lightweight luggage in the market. Perhaps there is some value in thinking about how our choices about luggage impact the packing process.

10. **Seasonal Travel Patterns:** An examination of passenger booking trends likely reveals an increase in baggage fees during peak seasons (holidays, for example). There's perhaps a tendency for travelers to underestimate the souvenirs or other items they will want to take home, which leads to surprises when packing. It's interesting that the increased demand for extra luggage seems to come at those special times.

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Privilege Club members enjoy extra baggage discounts

Qatar Airways' Privilege Club offers a perk that can be especially appealing to travelers who often find themselves needing extra baggage space: discounts on excess baggage fees. Members can snag up to a 20% reduction on those fees, which can be a worthwhile bonus for frequent flyers. Even better, if you pre-purchase a large amount of extra baggage weight, you can potentially save as much as 70%. This is a powerful incentive to be aware of if you're the type of traveler who likes to come home with lots of souvenirs or gifts.

Naturally, there are some catches. These discounts are only valid for flights actually run by Qatar Airways, not partner airlines or codeshare flights. It's worth double-checking all the terms and conditions since these benefits are subject to standard Qatar Airways baggage rules. For instance, your specific route and the class of your ticket might impact how much weight is permitted, or whether these discounts are even applicable. If you anticipate the need to check additional luggage during your travels, exploring the benefits of Privilege Club membership may be a worthwhile step to reduce the sting of extra baggage costs.

Privilege Club members, essentially those who frequently fly with Qatar Airways, get a leg up on baggage costs. They can snag discounts on excess baggage, which can stack onto the already potentially good deals for buying excess weight in bulk. This appears to be a strategy to keep flyers loyal, offering those who travel more often the chance to minimize expenses.


From a business point of view, airlines are really good at leveraging what we know about how people make decisions. Qatar Airways' offering of member discounts plays on our inclination to hunt down savings, potentially encouraging us to think harder about what we really need to bring.


Qatar Airways uses data analysis to set prices for excess baggage, and this data likely gives them a pretty good picture of how people typically behave as travelers. This allows them to adjust discount levels in a way that seems to nudge people toward decisions that benefit the airline.

There's a psychological aspect to loyalty programs like the Privilege Club. When people are part of a group, they might start to feel a greater sense of connection. That feeling can nudge them toward spending a bit more to take advantage of the extra benefits—such as reduced baggage fees—the program offers.

The airline likely uses dynamic pricing for excess baggage, where fees vary based on how much demand there is, when in the year it is, and who's asking. Privilege Club members may see more predictable fees compared to others, suggesting that there's a monetary advantage to loyalty.

It appears that Privilege Club members, who often travel a lot, also likely have a well-developed method for packing and tend to have a better grasp of baggage weight limits. This might translate to fewer overage fees compared to travelers who don't fly as often.

It seems cultural factors impact how people decide on what luggage to take. Those who fly frequently, many of whom are Privilege Club members, tend to be more efficient with what they pack. This may suggest a broader understanding of the benefit of sticking to baggage weight allowances.


The discounts Qatar offers to its Privilege Club members are a smart way to cultivate loyal customers. It helps keep current flyers coming back and can also make new flyers more willing to think of becoming a more frequent customer to get the benefits.


Looking at all the costs of travel, such as airfare, luggage, and other extras, it seems clear that the Privilege Club can be a useful long-term savings tool for regular travelers. It seems it can alter how those travelers plan for baggage weight.


Airlines in general are experiencing a growing trend toward membership loyalty programs. Airlines like Qatar Airways have figured out that offering deals on luggage fees is an effective way to make flyers stick around and travel more.

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Special item policies for sports gear and instruments

Qatar Airways caters to travelers with specialized equipment like sports gear and musical instruments, but there are specific policies to be aware of. If you're planning on taking sports equipment or an instrument, be prepared for fees based on weight. Up to 23 kilograms, the fee is $100, whereas up to 32 kilograms will cost you $150. Once you go beyond these weight limits, the standard excess baggage charges kick in. These fees can be pretty high, especially if you wait until the airport to sort things out. To avoid hefty charges, consider the bulk purchase options for pre-booking extra baggage—this can result in real savings. So, it's wise to familiarize yourself with Qatar Airways' policies on these items before your trip to save money and avoid any unnecessary complications at the airport. Being prepared with a clear understanding of the rules can help ensure a smoother and less expensive travel experience.

When dealing with sports gear or musical instruments, Qatar Airways has particular policies for transporting them. If your item weighs up to 23 kilograms, you'll face a $100 fee; for those up to 32 kilograms, the fee climbs to $150. These fees are in addition to standard excess baggage charges, which can fluctuate based on destination and whether the airline is charging by weight or number of bags.

Buying your baggage allowance online in bulk ahead of time can help you save money. You can increase the baggage weight limit in 5 kg increments up to a certain maximum. However, you need to stay within a maximum dimension per bag and for the combined weight and dimensions of multiple bags. The maximum weight per checked bag is a fixed 32 kilograms, or 70 pounds. For example, on first-class tickets you get two pieces of hand baggage that cannot exceed a combined weight of 15 kg. Paying at the airport is more expensive. For instance, if you need extra baggage and pay at the airport within 6 hours of departure you can see charges of $255 in Canadian dollars. Also the cost per kilogram is regionally dependent, it can be 55 dollars per kilogram if you book online or 70 dollars per kilogram at the airport if you travel from Europe to Australia, for instance.

You can only bring one carry-on bag that must adhere to a certain maximum size, around 112 centimeters or roughly 20x15x10 inches. This is in addition to a personal item like a walking stick or a camera.

It's important to understand that these rules are designed for a reason. Baggage weights can impact safety, fuel efficiency, and baggage handling efficiency. The weight limits are tied to the aircraft's design and overall safety. These limitations seem to lead to the airlines' attempts to influence our behavior as travelers. This seems to be a way to nudge us to pay extra for luggage allowance, to use our cognitive biases against us, so to speak. These limits help ensure the planes' safety by balancing the weight of cargo, passengers, and fuel. This makes operations at airports much smoother and reduces worker safety concerns.

Furthermore, the weight limits help keep baggage handling efficient. The process of moving, loading, and unloading luggage can become more challenging if the bags are too heavy. For travelers who frequently use the services of airlines, it might become apparent that there's a psychological aspect to this: It's often the case that travelers underestimate how much they are going to pack. The weight restrictions act as a helpful reminder. The fees also help keep the baggage handling infrastructure functioning, making sure that the staff can handle luggage without hurting themselves.

Also, the weight limits might be influenced by international agreements between different airline organizations. These agreements ensure that things go smoother when handling baggage between different airlines.

It seems like the current market has seen a push towards lighter suitcases, which probably helps people adhere to the airline rules. Many of the airlines appear to adjust their pricing based on a wealth of travel data, suggesting that a detailed analysis of travel trends informs their policies.

Ultimately, understanding these baggage rules ahead of your trip is crucial for keeping your travel experience smoother and cost-effective. If you plan to take sports or musical gear or just want to pack a lot of souvenirs, consider pre-booking your excess baggage online to save money. Paying for extra baggage at the airport is typically far more expensive, and there is a possibility of facing higher fees in some regions depending on how and where you are traveling.

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Oneworld alliance perks for frequent flyers

The Oneworld alliance offers a range of advantages specifically designed for frequent travelers. These perks can significantly improve the travel experience, particularly regarding baggage allowance and airport services. For example, reaching the top tier, Oneworld Emerald, gives you 20kg of extra checked baggage if an airline uses a weight system for luggage, or an extra bag for free if they use a piece-based system. The second-highest level, Oneworld Sapphire, provides a 15kg baggage allowance increase, or another free bag, depending on the airline's system. Beyond baggage perks, many Oneworld members benefit from priority boarding at airports and enjoy complimentary checked bags due to their elite status. Qatar Airways' membership since 2013 makes this a convenient and potentially cost-effective choice for frequent travelers. As the airline industry continuously strives to enhance travel and reward passenger loyalty, being a part of such an alliance seems to provide benefits and incentives that might impact how travelers plan trips and select airlines.

The Oneworld alliance, established in 1999, aims to be a leading choice for international travelers by fostering smooth connections across its member airlines. Qatar Airways, a member since 2013, consistently ranks among the top airlines globally, having won multiple Airline of the Year awards. Currently, the alliance comprises 13 active airlines, with Oman Air soon to join. S7 Airlines was suspended in 2022.


This network spans over 1,000 destinations in over 170 countries, making it attractive to those who like to travel between multiple locations. It potentially simplifies travel planning, as a single booking might cover several different airlines, saving time and possibly money. Oneworld frequent flyer programs are designed to reward loyalty, and members can collect and redeem points across all participating airlines. This can be useful for budget travelers who want the flexibility of using different airlines while earning benefits on one account.


Oneworld offers various benefits that are of interest to frequent travelers, including enhanced baggage allowance and priority access services. Elite frequent flyer status, within the Oneworld Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald tiers, grants access to privileges like priority check-in, baggage handling, and boarding across all partner airlines. These perks can streamline airport interactions, potentially saving time and reducing the stress of travel.


Members with a certain status level also get access to over 650 airport lounges worldwide, a potential perk for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of finding and paying for food during layovers. It can be an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who prefer to relax and save money at airport lounges before a connecting flight.


Regarding baggage, Oneworld elite members frequently enjoy additional free baggage allowances. Oneworld Emerald members get 20 kg extra weight on weight-based systems or an extra bag on piece-based systems. Similarly, Oneworld Sapphire members get 15 kg more weight or an extra bag. The system is tied to frequent flyer status and therefore rewarding loyalty. Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can also receive discounts on baggage fees, a benefit that applies only to Qatar Airways-operated flights. However, they follow standard Qatar Airways baggage policies regarding weight and piece limits.



Oneworld loyalty programs use a tiered structure that unlocks a wider array of benefits with each higher tier. This structure can encourage frequent travel and enhance the rewards for loyal customers, possibly creating new opportunities for cost-effective journeys, especially during promotional periods. Members can take advantage of promotions, such as special discounts on certain routes or extra miles when booking through affiliated partners. This suggests that some careful planning can lead to savings.


The ability to pool loyalty points with family members could be a useful feature for families, enabling a collective approach to achieving desired rewards or benefits. Also, luggage can be checked through to final destinations on connecting flights within the alliance. This can significantly simplify travel logistics, particularly for those with tight budgets. The Oneworld alliance also makes available tools like online booking and real-time travel information, which allow travelers to compare fares and potentially uncover budget-friendly options across airlines.


It seems that Oneworld and its alliance partners continuously work on features that improve the customer experience. This focus on customer loyalty and ease of use appears to be an effective way to encourage traveler loyalty. The alliance continually strives to improve the traveler experience, suggesting that a focus on frequent flyer satisfaction is at the core of its strategy.

Qatar Airways Excess Baggage 7 Money-Saving Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers - Route-specific baggage allowances to maximize savings

When traveling with Qatar Airways, it's smart to be aware of how baggage rules can differ based on your destination. For example, while Economy Class usually allows two checked bags up to a certain weight, this can change depending on the route. Some routes, like those to or from Brazil, have different rules for carry-on luggage. Also, it's worth remembering that if you're flying on a flight operated by a different airline as part of a Qatar Airways booking, the baggage rules can change. It's important to know this before you get to the airport, as excess baggage fees can vary a lot depending on where you're going and what type of ticket you have. Unexpected costs can really add up, so taking the time to understand the exact baggage allowance for your trip can really help keep your travel expenses in check. Knowing this beforehand allows you to pack smartly and avoid unnecessary expenses, contributing to a more relaxed and budget-friendly trip.

Route-specific baggage allowances can be quite intricate, and understanding them is key to avoiding unexpected expenses. While some airlines have standard allowances, especially for basic economy fares, the reality is that these rules frequently vary based on the exact destination and type of fare you book.

One challenge is that excess baggage charges often aren't consistent. The same route might have wildly different fees depending on when you book, how full the flight is, or even how the airline wants to balance its revenue for a given period. This can make budgeting challenging for travelers.

It appears that travelers, when confronted with baggage restrictions, often exhibit a tendency to overestimate how much they will actually need. This often leads to a surge in excess baggage purchases during peak travel periods. This could be understood as a response to the scarcity that travelers might perceive with regards to the availability of space to pack items. The scarcity can create a mental trigger for travelers, possibly leading them to pack more than they might if they weren't under pressure.

This issue is exacerbated by differences in baggage regulations between regions. What might be a normal excess baggage charge in North America can be significantly different in Asia or Australia. These variations make it more difficult for travelers to plan their packing strategies in advance.

It seems that the type of luggage itself can impact excess baggage costs. Those who utilize larger suitcases may find themselves exceeding allowances more frequently. The assumption that a bigger bag equates to more space for items can inadvertently contribute to an increase in expenses.

This might be due to airlines deploying behavioral pricing strategies. They sometimes cleverly leverage human tendencies. A small increase in the baggage weight limit, presented as a bargain, may encourage travelers to opt for a seemingly better deal, ultimately spending more than they initially intended.

Even cultural norms related to packing habits seem to have an impact. Travelers coming from cultures with a minimalist perspective tend to pack less, whereas those from cultures that are more geared toward packing completely might generate more baggage-related fees.

The fees structure itself adds complexity. Some fees for additional baggage encompass costs for individual items like sports gear or musical instruments. In this case, it might make sense to evaluate if it is more cost-effective to transport a few individual items within one bag rather than as a separate checked-in piece with a possible surcharge.

Pre-booking excess baggage online or through other channels appears to have a calming effect on travelers. It seems that taking action beforehand and committing to the expense can reduce anxieties related to sudden airport charges. This creates a more predictable spending environment, making it less likely for travelers to panic and pay excessively at the last minute.

Airlines often utilize complex systems called dynamic pricing for excess baggage. This means that costs can shift dramatically depending on various factors, including demand, booking windows, and even the day of the week. This implies that the cost of a suitcase can vary greatly depending on the time of the year and the specific route.

Frequent flyers, and in particular those who are members of loyalty programs, tend to have a better grasp of baggage-related costs and can adapt their packing habits accordingly. This also implies that experience leads to changes in travel behavior, and that experience suggests that frequent flyers might be more efficient at anticipating their needs and adjusting accordingly.


It seems that understanding these factors and considering the context of specific routes and destinations can help budget-conscious travelers make better decisions regarding excess baggage. If you're traveling with specific items or with a lot of items, knowing the baggage rules for a given airline ahead of time can prevent surprises and contribute to a more financially sound trip.