Traveling by plane can be a hassle, especially when it comes to packing. What can you pack in your checked luggage? What can’t you pack? And what are the restrictions on liquids and other items?
To help you out, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to what you can and cannot pack in your checked luggage.
Checked Luggage Basics
- Checked baggage is the luggage that you check in at the airport and is transported in the cargo hold of the plane.
- Carry-on baggage is the luggage that you keep with you on the plane.
- Checked baggage limits vary by airline, but most airlines allow you to check two bags for free. Each bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds and have dimensions of no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
- Oversized or overweight baggage may be subject to additional fees.
What You Can Pack in Checked Luggage
You can pack almost anything in your checked luggage, as long as it is not prohibited by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Some of the most common items that people pack in their checked luggage include:
- Clothing
- Shoes
- Toiletries
- Electronics
- Books
- Food
- Gifts
- Souvenirs
What You Cannot Pack in Checked Luggage
There are a few items that you cannot pack in your checked luggage, including:
- Dangerous goods, such as explosives, flammable liquids, and corrosive materials
- Perishable goods, such as fresh food and flowers
- Live animals, except for service animals
- Money and valuables, such as jewelry, cash, and credit cards
- Electronic cigarettes
- Lithium batteries, except for those that are installed in devices
- Replicas of weapons
Liquids and Gels
Liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces are not allowed in carry-on luggage. However, you can pack liquids and gels in your checked luggage in containers of any size.
Food
You can pack food in your checked luggage, but there are some restrictions. Solid food items are generally allowed, but liquid and semi-solid food items may be subject to additional screening.
Gifts and Souvenirs
You can pack gifts and souvenirs in your checked luggage, but be aware that some items may be subject to customs duties and taxes.
Prohibited Items
The following items are prohibited from being packed in either checked or carry-on luggage:
- Explosives and incendiary devices
- Flammable liquids and solids
- Corrosive materials
- Oxidizing materials
- Radioactive materials
- Etiologic agents
- Sharp objects
- Weapons and ammunition
- Other items that are deemed to be dangerous by the TSA
TSA Approved Locks
The TSA recommends that you use a TSA-approved lock to secure your checked luggage. TSA-approved locks allow TSA officers to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock.
Tips for Packing Your Checked Luggage
Here are a few tips for packing your checked luggage:
- Pack smart. Pack your heaviest items at the bottom of your suitcase and your lightest items at the top.
- Use packing cubes. Packing cubes can help you keep your belongings organized and prevent them from shifting around in your suitcase.
- Leave some room for souvenirs. You may want to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs that you pick up on your trip.
- Make a list of what you packed. This will help you keep track of your belongings and make it easier to file a claim if your luggage is lost or damaged.
Packing for Different Types of Trips
The items that you pack in your checked luggage will vary depending on the type of trip you are taking. For example, if you are going on a business trip, you will need to pack dress clothes, toiletries, and electronics. If you are going on a vacation, you will need to pack more casual clothes, shoes, and toiletries.
Conclusion
Packing for a trip can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the tips in this guide, you can pack your checked luggage quickly and efficiently.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between checked baggage and carry-on baggage?
A: Checked baggage is the luggage that you check in at the airport and is transported in the cargo hold of the plane. Carry-on baggage is the luggage that you keep with you on the plane.
Q: What are the checked baggage limits?
A: Checked baggage limits vary by airline, but most airlines allow you to check two bags for free. Each bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds and have dimensions of no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
Q: What can I pack in my checked luggage?
A: You can pack almost anything in your checked luggage, as long as it is not prohibited by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Q: What can’t I pack in my checked luggage?
A: There are a few items that you cannot pack in your checked luggage, including dangerous goods, perishable goods, live animals, money and valuables, electronic cigarettes, lithium batteries, and replicas of weapons.
Q: What are the restrictions on liquids and gels in checked luggage?
A: There are no restrictions on liquids and gels in checked luggage.
Q: Can I pack food in my checked luggage?
A: Yes, you can pack food in your checked luggage, but there are some restrictions. Solid food items are generally allowed, but liquid and semi-solid food items may be subject to additional screening.
Q: Can I pack gifts and souvenirs in my checked luggage?
A: Yes, you can pack gifts and souvenirs in your checked luggage, but be aware that some items may be subject to customs duties and taxes.
Q: What are TSA approved locks?
A: TSA approved locks are locks that allow TSA officers to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock.