Some people get really excited about packing for a trip (me!) and others put it off until the last second (I'm guilty of this, too). Whether you're a frequent flyer or setting out on your first adventure, knowing what to leave out of your checked luggage is crucial. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination and discover that essential items are lost, damaged, or confiscated. This blog post aims to guide you through the essentials of what not to pack in checked luggage. From medications to valuable jewelry, we're sharing with you everything we always pack carry on.
Have you ever heard of the Unclaimed Baggage Store? We have a whole video about shopping people's lost luggage it if you're interested!
If you plan to check luggage, make sure you place your medications in your carry on. Don't just bring enough for the next though, I would bring all of your medications in your carry on due to the fact that your doctors at home likely can't prescribe medication for you abroad (or even out of state).
Additionally, the extreme temperatures in the cargo hold can affect the potency and efficacy of certain medications. Some, like insulin, require temperature-controlled environments. Therefore, it’s best to carry them in your hand luggage, ensuring they remain intact and accessible throughout your trip.
Having your medications in your carry-on also ensures you have them on hand for unexpected events, such as flight cancellations or emergencies. Always pack them in their original packaging, along with any necessary prescriptions or documentation, to avoid issues with airport security.
Jewelry should always remain with you during travel. Checked luggage isn't exempt from theft, and small items like jewelry are particularly vulnerable. Despite security measures, there's always a risk of dishonest baggage handlers or opportunistic thieves (something we've never personally experienced, but we have had our luggage opened and checked without our consent).
Even if theft isn’t an issue, your luggage goes through a lot during a flight. Bags are often tossed around, increasing the risk of damage to fragile items like jewelry. While I don't usually wear jewelry, I will say I would be absolutely heartbroken if something were to happen to the one piece I care about: my engagement ring.
Keep in mind that airlines typically limit liability for lost or damaged items, especially when it comes to valuables. They may not compensate you for a lost piece of jewelry, leaving you to bear the cost of replacement. To avoid this, keep your valuables in your carry-on, where they can remain safe and within your sight.
Bonus tip: Make sure your valuables are insured! We have my engagement ring and valuable electronics (computers and cameras) insured through USAA.
Lithium-ion batteries have become a staple in our tech-obsessed world, especially for travel content creators like ourselves who always travel with cameras and computers. However, packing them in checked luggage is a major no-no. These batteries are prone to overheating and can catch fire, posing a significant risk during flights.
Airlines have strict regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries, usually requiring them to be packed in carry-on luggage. This allows crew members to address any issues immediately, reducing potential dangers.
Electronics are often expensive and contain sensitive data, making them unsuitable for checked luggage. Airlines handle bags roughly, and delicate gadgets may not withstand the impact. From cracked screens to internal damage, the risks are too high.
Security procedures also pose a concern. Checked bags can be searched, and electronics may be removed for inspection. There's a chance they could be misplaced or mishandled, leading to loss or damage.
Personally we always opt to carry our camera and work gear as carry-on vs. checked. Our livelihood depends on our gear and we refuse to check our gear in the cargo section because if something were to happen to our gear, we'd be out of work until we could get the items replaced.
Occasionally we'll have a gate agent or flight attendant tell us we absolutely must check our luggage at the gate because the overhead bins are already full, but that's when we plead the lithium-ion battery angle and then they legally can't check our bags. They've always managed to find space for our bags in-cabin, even in their personal flight attendant and pilot closet when necessary! I hate to be that passenger, but it's too risky to check something as valuable as our gear.
Important documents such as passports, visas, and identification are the last things you want to lose during travel. Packing them in checked luggage is a common mistake, one that can lead to unnecessary headaches and keep you from even making it through security at the airport.
Losing these documents can significantly disrupt your travel plans and ruin a much anticipated trip. Replacing them can be time-consuming and stressful, especially in a foreign country. Keeping them in your carry-on ensures they're always within reach.
Additionally, having your documents on hand allows for seamless navigation through airports, customs, and hotel check-ins. Stay prepared and keep your travel documents safe and secure.
Bonus tip: Always make copies of your important documents! We always keep a couple laminated copies of our passports and drivers licenses with us when traveling.
Checked luggage isn’t a safe place for sentimental items hold unique values that go beyond price tags. From family heirlooms to irreplaceable photographs, their loss can be heartbreaking.Even with the best intentions, airline staff can't guarantee the safety of every bag.
Mishandling, theft, or loss are possibilities that could result in the permanent absence of cherished items. To protect your sentimental valuables, keep them close throughout your travels. By carrying these items in your hand luggage, you maintain control over their safety.
Traveling often involves carrying extra money, but placing cash and credit cards in checked luggage is risky. If your luggage is lost or delayed, you could be left without access to funds, jeopardizing your entire trip.
To ensure your financial security, keep cash and credit cards in a secure spot within your carry-on. This way, you can manage your expenses without worry, enjoying your travels with confidence.
Souvenirs from your travels hold memories of your adventures. However, packing them in checked luggage isn’t advisable. Airlines don't provide special handling for fragile items (even if they say they do), increasing the risk of damage.
From pottery to glass ornaments, these items require gentle care that checked baggage can't guarantee. Arriving home to find your souvenirs shattered would be a disappointing way to end to a trip.
To preserve your travel mementos, carry them on board. Use protective materials, like bubble wrap or padded bags, to cushion them during transit. A little extra effort goes a long way in preserving your memories.
Musicians often travel with their instruments, but packing them in checked luggage can lead to disaster. Instruments are delicate and require special handling and climate control to prevent damage. Back when I used to travel as a musician with my flute, I would refuse to check it in cargo because temperature would so greatly effect the tuning of it.
Airlines may not accommodate your instrument's specific needs, resulting in potential harm. Even if packed carefully, turbulence and rough handling can cause irreversible damage.
Whenever possible, carry your instrument on board. While some instruments are too big to carry-on board, many will fit in the overhead compartment.
While most of your clothing can be packed in checked luggage, keeping a few essentials in your carry-on is wise. Delays or lost luggage can leave you without necessary attire, impacting your comfort.
Having a change of clothes or essential items like underwear and socks ensures you're prepared for any situation. Plan ahead by packing a lightweight outfit in your hand luggage. This simple step provides peace of mind, ensuring you’re well-equipped for any travel surprise.
Perishable food is ill-suited for checked luggage. Temperature fluctuations and extended travel times can lead to spoilage, leaving you with inedible goods upon arrival.
Airline policies may also restrict the transport of certain food items, leading to confiscation. To avoid this, familiarize yourself with airline and destination regulations before traveling.
Pressure changes during flights may cause containers to leak or burst, damaging your belongings, therefore unsealed liquids are a no-go.
Pack liquids in properly sealed containers within your hand luggage. Use plastic bags or travel-sized bottles to prevent leaks, keeping your belongings clean and dry.
Note: If you plan to pack your liquids in your carry-on, keep in mind that TSA has strict requirements of liquids in-cabin including that no container can be greater than 3.4 ounces and every passenger can old carry a certain about of liquid on board.
Knowing what not to pack in your checked luggage is essential for a smooth travel experience. By taking these precautions, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible. Remember to keep medications, valuables, and essential items close at hand; your peace of mind depends on it. For more travel tips and advice, explore our additional resources. Safe travels!
