5 things you should never carry into check-in luggage

Every traveller should know the basics of what’s allowed and what’s not in check-in luggage if you are travelling across the world. Even frequent fliers can sometimes friend themselves in that situation where they realise at the last minute that they need to move an item from their check-in counter while the pile of clothes is in your suitcase, all at the check-in counter while impatient passengers tap their feet behind you. 

I am here to save you that trouble. Here are five things you should never pack into check-in luggage. 

Chargers and power banks

Most airline representatives will ask you if you’re carrying a charger or power bank in your check-in baggage. Any items with lithium-ion batteries cannot be carried in checked-in baggage due to the risk of explosion or fire. While some airlines may allow power banks below a certain threshold of energy, it’s always better to pack your chargers and power banks into your cabin luggage to avoid any last-minute bag shifts. E-cigarettes and vapes also have small lithium-ion batteries and are therefore not allowed in checked-in bags. Gadgets with dry cell batteries, on the other hand, are allowed only in cabin luggage.

Electronics

The first reason electronics are typically not allowed in checked-in baggage is the presence of lithium-ion batteries—found in cell phones, laptops and tablets, cameras and even smart bags or briefcases with inbuilt alarm systems. The second is breakage. When your bags are checked in, they go into the “belly” or underside of the aircraft where all the cargo is held. Electronics are prone to scratches, dents and splashes in this part of the aircraft and unless packed carefully, can end up being damaged. So, if you have any electronics, especially expensive gadgets, you’re better off carrying them in your cabin bag.

Essential medication

While illegal medication is not allowed on flights, essential medication is permitted. It’s better to keep this on your person rather than in your checked luggage. You may need the medicines while you’re on the flight and keeping them in your carry-on allows ease of access. Additionally, checked bags can sometimes get lost in transit and reach the wrong airport. You don’t want to be stuck without your essential medication when you land at your destination.

Valuables like jewellery and cash

While jewellery and cash are allowed to be packed in checked bags, it is advisable to keep them on your person. Your checked bags are safe in cargo but it’s always better to be a bit more careful with expensive jewellery. If you’re carrying valuables of the sort, keep them closer to your cabin luggage to avoid any misplacing. Again, checked bags can get lost and reach you late—you will be far more at ease knowing you have all your valuables right where you can see them.

Explosive items (like dry coconuts)

You’ve come across the sign at Indian airport check-in counters that warns against carrying dry coconuts in check-in luggage. The answer is quite simple–they are explosive. Any explosive items such as aerosols (except in small quantities in personal care products), fuels, petrol, lighter fluids and matches are not allowed in checked baggage luggage. Such items may be allowed in your cabin luggage.