Packing the right way can make all the difference for a smooth trip.
Wondering what could turn your luggage into a disaster zone? Some items are better left out of your checked luggage.
Read on to discover the 10 items you should never pack in your checked luggage and why avoiding them will save you from unnecessary headaches while traveling! 🙂
1. Lithium Batteries
a. Why they’re a no-go
Lithium batteries can be a real fire hazard if damaged.
Airlines are strict about these because they can cause fires if short-circuited or mishandled during flight.
b. What devices are affected
Keep lithium-powered devices in your carry-on:
- Laptops, smartphones, and tablets
- Portable chargers and power banks
- Cameras and drones
- E-cigarettes and vaping devices
- Cordless hair tools with lithium batteries
Remember: These items are not allowed in checked luggage due to safety regulations.
c. Power bank restrictions
Most airlines allow power banks up to 100 watt-hours in carry-on luggage.
Anything higher might be restricted. For smart luggage, remember to remove the batteries before checking it.
d. Dry Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, Button Cell, 9-volt)
Dry batteries allowed in checked luggage:
- Alkaline (e.g., AA, AAA)
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
Common devices using these batteries:
- Flashlights and radios
- Remote controls
- Wireless keyboards and computer mice
- Toys and clocks
- Some small cameras
Safety tip: Pack batteries securely to prevent short circuits.
2. Aerosol Products
a. Fire hazards at altitude
Aerosols are largely restricted from checked luggage because they’re flammable and could turn into fire hazards at high altitudes.
Items like spray paint or cooking spray pose a particular risk.
b. What’s allowed in checked luggage
Aerosols allowed in checked luggage (small amounts):
i.) Personal care items:
- Hairspray
- Perfumes and colognes
- Deodorants
ii.) Sun protection:
- Sunscreen sprays
- Medical items:
- Inhalers
iii.) Key points:
- Limited to personal-use quantities
- Medicinal and toiletry aerosols generally permitted
c. Quantity limits
Keep your aerosols under 2 kg (70 oz) or 2 L (68 fl oz) total. Each container should not exceed 0.5 kg (18 oz) or 500 ml (17 fl oz).
Ensure nozzles are protected to prevent accidental release.
3. Alcoholic Beverages
a. Rules for different alcohol content
Under 24% alcohol:
- No quantity limits
- Examples: Most wines and beers
24-70% alcohol:
- Allowed, but with restrictions
- Examples: Many spirits and liqueurs
Over 70% alcohol:
- Prohibited
- Examples: Some high-proof spirits
b. Limits on quantity
For drinks between 24-70% alcohol, you’re limited to 5 liters in unopened retail packaging.
The total net quantity per person shouldn’t exceed 5 liters (1.3 gallons).
c. Packing precautions
However, glass bottles, such as those containing wine, are fragile and may not withstand the rough handling of checked baggage.
Always be careful when packing liquids in glass containers to prevent breakage.
4. Flammable Liquids
a. Common flammable items
Flammable items prohibited in checked luggage.
Fuel containers:
- Gas canisters
- Fuel tanks for camping stoves
- Diving tanks
Ignition sources:
- Matches (all types)
- Torch lighters
- Regular lighters (in most cases)
Other prohibited items:
- Fireworks
- Flares
- Paint thinners
Remember: Safety is the top priority. When in doubt, leave it out.
b. Fire risks during flight
These items pose a significant fire risk, especially when subjected to pressure changes during flight.
They could potentially ignite or explode in the cargo hold.
c. Allowed alternatives
You are allowed to carry a small pack of safety matches or a small lighter in your carry-on bag.
However, these are for personal use only and should be handled responsibly.
5. Chemical Hazards
a. Corrosive and oxidizing substances
Your suitcase is no place for harsh chemicals.
Common household items like bleach, paint stripper, and drain cleaner are big no-nos.
These potent cleaners and solvents can corrode your bag or damage other luggage.
b. Reactive materials
Some chemicals get cranky at high altitudes or when jostled around.
Avoid packing anything that might have a bad reaction during the flight.
This includes items like tear gas, radioactive materials, or toxic substances that could be dangerous if they leaked out.
c. Explosive items
Fireworks might be fun, but they’re not welcome in your luggage.
This ban isn’t just for big, flashy displays – even small items like sparklers or Christmas crackers (yes, those festive poppers!) are prohibited.
The rule of thumb: if it could potentially go “pop” or “bang”, it stays out of your bag.
6. Cash and Credit Cards
a. Risk of loss
Avoid packing cash, credit cards, or checkbooks in your checked baggage.
If your luggage gets lost or delayed, you could be left without access to funds at your destination.
b. Easy targets for theft
These items are small and valuable, making them easy targets for theft if your bag falls into the wrong hands.
c. Keep them accessible
Keeping cash and cards in your carry-on ensures you have them readily available for any expenses during your journey or upon arrival.
7. Valuables
a. Protecting from damage
Valuable items like electronics, jewelry, or fragile souvenirs are better protected in your carry-on where you can ensure they’re handled carefully.
b. Preventing loss
Keeping valuables with you reduces the risk of loss due to mishandled or misplaced luggage.
c. Insurance considerations
Many travel insurance policies don’t cover valuables in checked luggage, so keeping them with you is often a requirement for coverage.
8. Medications
a. Accessibility during travel
Pack all medications in your carry-on to ensure you have access to them throughout your journey, even if your checked bag is delayed.
b. Proper packaging
Keep prescription medications in their original containers with labels attached. Bring a copy of the prescription for added security.
c. Essential over-the-counter drugs
Essential medications should be placed in your carry-on, not in your checked luggage.
Pain relief:
- Tylenol (acetaminophen)
- Advil (ibuprofen)
Motion sickness:
- Gravol (dimenhydrinate)
Digestive issues:
- Mylanta (antacid)
- Pepto Bismol (for indigestion, nausea)
Key tips:
- Keep medications in original packaging
- Place in clear, resealable bag for easy access
9. Toiletries
a. Checked bag options
While you can pack larger toiletries in checked luggage, keeping essentials in your carry-on ensures you’re prepared if your checked bag is delayed.
b. Essential items for carry-on
Oral care:
- Toothbrush
- Travel-size toothpaste
Personal hygiene:
- Deodorant/antiperspirant
- Face wipes or cleansing cloths
Other essentials:
- Hand sanitizer (travel-size)
- Lip balm
Tips:
- Use travel-size containers (3.4 oz/100 ml or less)
- Pack liquids in a clear, resealable 1-quart bag
- Consider solid alternatives (e.g. solid deodorant)
c. Dealing with liquid restrictions
The 3-1-1 Rule for carry-on liquids.
3: 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per container
- Applies to all liquids, gels, and aerosols
- Includes items like shampoo, toothpaste, and lotions
1: 1 quart-sized clear, resealable bag
- All containers must fit in this single bag
1: 1 bag per passenger
- Each traveler is allowed one bag
Exceptions:
- Medications
- Baby formula/milk
- Duty-free liquids (in secure, tamper-evident bags)
10. Breakable Items
a. Risks of rough handling
Checked bags often face rough handling, which can be disastrous for breakable items like glass bottles or delicate souvenirs.
b. Carry-on alternatives
When possible, carry breakable items on board where you can ensure their safe handling.
c. Packing techniques
If you must check breakable items, wrap them carefully in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase, surrounded by other soft items for protection.
Extra Tip 1: Smart Strategies to Maximize Space in Your Checked Luggage
a. Roll Your Clothes
Instead of folding, roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
Start with bulky items like jeans and sweaters, then move to lighter clothes like t-shirts.
Place them neatly in your suitcase, making use of corners and gaps.
b. Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags
These handy tools help you organize and compress your belongings.
Group similar items together in cubes or bags, squeeze out the air, and stack them in your suitcase.
c. Utilize Every Available Space
Fill shoes with socks or other small items if your shoes are new. Tuck rolled belts into shirt collars to maintain shape.
Place smaller items like underwear in gaps between larger ones to maximize every inch of space.
d. Pack Strategically
Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase (near the wheels) for better balance.
This makes your luggage easier to handle and protects more delicate items.
Keep frequently needed items easily accessible.
e. Use Soft-Sided Luggage
If possible, opt for soft-sided luggage.
These bags can expand slightly to accommodate extra items, unlike hard suitcases, giving you a bit more flexibility.
f. Plan to Do Laundry
If your trip allows, plan to do laundry. This lets you pack fewer clothes overall, leaving room for souvenirs or other essentials you might need during your journey.
Extra Tip 2: Take Photos of Your Luggage
Taking photos of your luggage before your trip is a smart precaution that can save you a lot of hassle if your bags go missing. Here’s why it’s important:
- Helps identify your luggage if it’s lost
- Provides proof of what was in your bag if you need to file a claim
- Makes it easier to describe your bag to airline staff
- Serves as a packing reference for future trips
- Helps you remember what you packed for each trip
Extra Tip 3: Label Your Luggage
Properly labeling your luggage is a crucial step in ensuring its safe return if it gets misplaced during your journey. Here’s why it’s important and how to do it effectively:
Why
- Increases chances of reuniting with lost luggage
- Helps airport staff quickly identify your bag
How
- Use durable, high-quality luggage tags
- Include your name, phone number, and email address
- Place labels both inside and outside your luggage
- Avoid including your home address for security reasons
Extra Tip 4: Pack Strategically
Recommend distributing items between checked bags if traveling with multiple people.
This precaution helps in case one bag gets lost or delayed.
Ensures each person has some essentials even if a bag goes missing.
Extra Tip 5: Use Distinctive Luggage
Using distinctive luggage can save you time and headaches. Here’s why it’s a smart move:
a. Why It Matters
- Distinctive luggage makes your bags easy to spot in a crowd.
- It reduces the chance of someone mistakenly grabbing your bag.
- Faster retrieval of your luggage
b. Methods to Make Your Luggage Distinctive
- Choose luggage in bright colors or fun patterns – think beyond basic black.
- Add personal touches like colorful ribbons or unique luggage tags.
- Try a luggage cover with a eye-catching design.
- Stick on some fun patches or stickers that reflect your personality.
Extra Tip 6: Use TSA-Approved Locks
TSA-approved locks are a smart choice for keeping your luggage secure while following airport rules. Here’s what you need to know about these handy travel accessories:
a. Benefits of TSA-Approved Locks
- Safety with convenience: TSA agents can check your bag without breaking the lock
- Peace of mind: Your stuff stays safe while you follow security rules
- Theft prevention: Makes it harder for others to get into your bag
- Protects your luggage: TSA agents can open and relock your luggage without cutting the lock, preserving your luggage and lock
b. Types of TSA-Approved Locks
- Combination locks: Use numbers to unlock, no key to lose
- Key locks: Need a physical key, often seen as more secure
- Cable locks: Flexible design for oddly shaped bags or multiple zippers
- Smart locks: High-tech options you can control with your phone
c. Tips for Using TSA-Approved Locks
- Use them everywhere: These locks can secure your belongings in hotel rooms or on other modes of transportation
- Pick colorful locks: Makes spotting your bag easier
- Choose quality: Sturdy locks from good brands last longer
