10 Things You Should Always Pack Into Your Checked Luggage

Preparing your checked luggage is just as perplexing for the seasoned jet-setter as it is for the first-time flier. You don’t want to pack too much, but you don’t want to leave the essentials that make your trip easier. Getting it right takes a bit of planning and a little bit of common sense. Nobody wants to be the person at baggage claim who remembers that they left something important behind.

So before you pack up for your trip, let’s make sure you know what should go in your checked luggage to make your trip hassle-free. Here are 10 things you’re going to be glad you brought with you.

Extra Set of Clothes

Luggage goes missing every now and then, and this sometimes means your bag gets lost in transit without you. The simple backup plan is to pack an extra set of clothes in your checked luggage. Pick something you can wear for different things—like a pair of jeans and a comfortable shirt.

Aerosols

Generally, items such as hairspray, deodorant, and other aerosol cans are not allowed in carry-on luggage. Pressurized items such as liquor bottles and the filter and actuator line hose could leak or even explode in changes of cabin pressure which can be safety critical. To avoid this, pack aerosols in your checked luggage, and make sure their caps are fastened tightly so nothing happens.

Sharp Objects

Items like knives, scissors, nail clippers, etc that are pointed can be dangerous sharps that may be dangerous if you carry them in hand luggage. For safety reasons these will have to be taken in your checked baggage, to oblige the security measures and to avoid any inconvenience. This precaution both cuts their risk of injuries from screening and also guarantees that they are safely stowed for their entire flight.

Powders

There is a little bit of a rule of thumb there that if you’re bringing large quantities of powders such as flour, sugar, or certain powdered medications, it may invite more scrutiny when you’re going through the security checkpoint. To not go through potential delay, and for convivance, it’s best to put these in your checked luggage. Taking this step proactively can make the security process smoother for you and hassle-free.

Duct Tape

Duct tape is the MacGyver of travel tools, and this might sound a little odd to you, but it is. A small roll can come to your rescue in the case of fixing a broken suitcase or a torn shoe. Bonus points if you can find a travel-sized version.

Laundry Bag or Plastic Bags

Your clean clothes are easily invaded by the dirty ones. It’s always nice to have a laundry bag—or even a few large plastic bags—to help keep things neat. Plus, they’re good for wet swimsuits, muddy shoes, or that last-minute souvenir that smells a little…funky.

Travel-Sized First Aid Kit

Picture this: You’ve been walking all day sightseeing and you’re halfway through when you realize you have a blister. A small first aid kit tucked in your luggage can save you. Stuff it with things like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. You don’t need a full hospital on wheels, but a few essentials can make the difference.

Fragile Items

If you have delicate or breakable items—like a souvenir, electronics, or glassware—you should bring them with you in your hand luggage to make sure they aren’t damaged while you’re en route. Though airlines do their best to take care of checked baggage, having fragile belongings with you at all times is a little extra security.

Irreplaceable Items

If an object has sentimental value or is just irreplaceable—like personal documents, family heirlooms, or one-of-a-kind mementos—then it should always ride with you in your carry-on bag. This way, you can make sure these valuable items stay safe and on hand while traveling.

Liquids and Gels

If you’re flying, it’s important to understand the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules on liquids and gels. Any liquid or gel in any container larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml) must go in your checked luggage. This ranges from shampoo, conditioner, lotions, toothpaste, and even liquid medications. These restrictions are enforced by the TSA in order to help improve aviation security and lower risks. Pack these items into your checked bag securely so your journey is easy.