This seems to have happened to me quite a few times upon traveling. When on longer trips (one month plus) it can be very challenging to be able to fit all that you need to bring with you and have space for your souvenirs and gifts to bring back. Airlines these days seem to have many restrictions on luggage weight allowance.
The key here is to do your research before you go to the airport. This way you avoid suprises and frustration at the airport (we all have seen that passenger emptying thier bags at the counter while the line is being held , no one wants that aggrevation!). If there is no way around it and you can’t lessen the wieght in the bag consider buying another bag to bring too.
Airlines charges on extra weight can be very costly. some will even charge by the pound! you should check with the airline what they charge for the extra bag. The charge for an additional bag most times, is significantly less than paying per pound in extra fees . Not only less fees, but that extra bag will allow you more wieght ( since you get a full amount per bag) than a few extra pounds over in the original bag. I have ran into this scenario mostly in longer duration trips or ones that include smaller aircrafts with limited luggage weight allowance .
Do your research and weigh your bags before you go. This way, you compare the options and when you are at the aiport nothing is a surprise, which will result in a smoother check in.
* for additional excess baggage tips visit unibaggage.com