Packing for a holiday always involves tricky decisions, especially when deciding what goes into checked luggage versus a cabin bag. While it may be tempting to put most items in the hold to keep hands free, travel experts warn that five specific things should never be placed in checked baggage.
1. Prescription medication
Although less than 1% of hold luggage goes missing and is usually only misdirected, having essential medication in hand luggage ensures you have supplies if your bag is delayed. Without it, you could miss vital doses. If medication is lost abroad, travellers can visit a local pharmacy for advice on emergency supplies.
2. Batteries and electronics
Items containing lithium batteries, such as power banks and vapes, pose a fire risk and are banned from checked luggage. They must be carried onboard. Some airlines impose limits on Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs); for example, Jet2 and Ryanair restrict the number to 15 per passenger. Ryanair also allows a maximum of 20 lithium batteries or power banks, each up to 100Wh, in hand baggage.
3. Valuable items
Jewellery, cash, and other valuables are safer in hand luggage. Although rare, theft from checked bags by airport staff can occur, and items may be damaged in transit. Travel insurance for lost baggage often has limits and an excess, meaning you might not recover the full value of expensive items.
4. Swimwear
On a beach holiday, packing swimwear in hand luggage means you can enjoy the pool or beach while waiting for your suitcase to arrive. It also allows you to change immediately if your room is not ready upon arrival.
5. Phone charger and adapter
After a flight, phone batteries are often low. Keeping your charger and the correct adapter for your destination in hand luggage lets you plug in right away without rummaging through your suitcase.
