Traveling to Europe, air booking and baggage check tips?

You might find an airline line that will allow more luggage, but you will have to pay for the extra weight. Can't you just buy some new stuff when you get settled in over there (like for winter)? Keep ALL your valuables with you and don't lock your suitcases. The douane (customs) are going to break the locks (they did this to me !) if they want to do a hand search of your luggage. And they might even after they X-ray it.