Travelers' checked bags are put into a storage bin under the plane, while carry-on bags go with the passengers in the cabin of the plane. In the United States, federal and airline guidelines ban travelers from packing certain items in carry-on and checked bags. Knowing what you can and cannot pack in your checked baggage will make your trip go much smoother.

Valuables

Though packing valuables such as jewelry and loose cash in your checked bags might seem more secure, you're taking a bigger risk of losing your valuables than when packing them in your carry-on bags. Avoid carrying valuables of any kind in your checked baggage, especially since bags are subject to search.

Electronics

Don't pack anything electronic in your check-in suitcases, such as laptops, PDAs, MP3 players, iPods, phones, cameras or film, since these items can be damaged by security screening equipment. These items are usually fragile as well and can be broken or cracked when in transit to your destination.

Food and Drink

Do not put any food or drinks into your checked baggage. Food items can perish or spill on other items.

Flammable Items

Do not pack anything that can start a fire, such as firearms, explosives, flares or matches. Fireworks and dynamite are prohibited as well. Flammable liquids or substances should not be packed, such as lighter fluid, gas or aerosol, unless the aerosol is an ingredient in personal care items like hairspray.

Chemicals

Don't pack chemicals in your checked baggage, such as liquid bleach, chlorine, spray paint or tear gas, since these are illegal and disabling to others. Under no circumstances should you carry these items in your checked baggage.

About the Author

Brittiany Cahoon began writing professionally in 2003. She has been published as a reporter and columnist in the "Mountaineer Progress," "The Rattler" and other regional newspapers. Cahoon holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Brigham Young University.

Photo Credits

  • Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
SHARE