- Passengers with luggage at the airport.travel airport image by jeancliclac from Fotolia.com
In this day and age of heightened security, knowing what you are allowed to take on an airplane can be confusing. Checked baggage requirements sometimes change overnight and it is a good idea to check with either your airline or the Transportation Security Administration one last time before you leave for the airport. - Bicycles can be checked as special baggage.bike image by Dubravko Grakalic from Fotolia.com
As airlines struggle to improve their bottom line, checked luggage requirements are becoming more stringent. Each airline writes its own rules regarding the number of pieces of baggage and weight allowed, as well as the cost per piece. As a rule of thumb, most airlines want each piece of checked luggage to weigh 50 pounds or less. The item's height, width and length added together should be less than 62 inches. Baggage that exceeds those limitations is subject to excess baggage charges.
Unusual baggage such as golf clubs, musical instruments, strollers, bicycles, sports equipment, even antlers, can generally be checked, but the airline may charge you additional fees. - Spray paint is prohibitedspray image by Dragana Petrovic from Fotolia.com
The Transportation Security Administration allows a number of different types of weapons to be checked in baggage. Any gun should be declared and empty of all ammunition. Sharp objects should be secured so as not to injure a TSA inspector or baggage handler. Prohibited items include flares, gun powder, any explosive or flammable items, lighters, batteries, paints or chemicals.
Food and drinks may be packed, though if traveling internationally, it is a good idea to insure that you are not breaking any regulations regarding food importation. The Customs & Border Patrol and the State Department websites list food items allowed into the United States. Regulations for other countries can be found on their embassy or consular websites. - Suitcase lockskofferschl??ssel image by Ewe Degiampietro from Fotolia.com
Once upon a time, everyone locked their suitcases. Suitcase design included combination locks or those little gold-colored padlocks came with your new luggage purchase. Obviously, times have changed. The TSA has approved locks by two manufacturers, Safe Skies and Travel Sentry. The locks made by these companies have a master key which allow a TSA inspector to examine your luggage, but the luggage is still protected against theft or inadvertently opening. If you have another type of lock on your luggage and the TSA wants to examine it, the lock will be broken, cut or otherwise opened.
