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61. Add a FRAGILE sticker so luggage will be loaded last/off first
Pros: Bag might get special treatment, will be there quicker at baggage claim
What you need: “FRAGILE” sticker from check-in
Cost: $2*

We’re not going to say that this is a for-sure win, because there’s always the chance that baggage handlers won’t even notice the sticker. Or, if they notice it, they won’t care about it, and just throw your baggage around anyway.

It’s worth a shot. Attach a “FRAGILE” sticker to your luggage (baggage check will usually provide them in some type of kiosk near the counter. If you can’t find a sticker, just ask for one). Technically, that means that your bag has to be loaded last and taken off first, and it means that handlers have to treat it gently – and that you won’t have to fork out for a new case.

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Make sure checked luggage can withstand a six-foot fall
Pros: Luggage will be durable and less likely to sustain damage during transport
What you need: Durable luggage from brands like Samsonite, Rimowa, and Pelican Elite
Cost: $129+*
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We’ve talked about shrink-wrapping your luggage and attaching a “FRAGILE” sticker to it, but there’s another option for making sure your bags don’t get obliterated. You can always just buy luggage that is super durable.

If your luggage can withstand a six-foot fall, it will be able to handle the journey. Expert World Travel gave its list for the most durable luggage of 2021, including Pelican Elite Luggage (“Most Durable,” $419), Samsonite Omni (“Great Budget Option” at $129), Samsonite Winfield 2 ($194, “Best Value”), and Rimowa Topas (“Best High End”, $1,499). You should be prepared to shell out some money for extra-durable luggage, but the purchase will be worth it, as your things will be protected from all but a nuclear blast.  

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63. Wrap breakable items in clothes and cushion with socks
Pros: Can protect breakable items easily
What you need: Socks, clothes
Cost: Free

It’s the morning that you’re due to leave, and you realize that you don’t have any packaging material. There are no packing peanuts or Styrofoam to cushion your breakable items, you’re facing a long flight ahead of you. You know your luggage is about to get jostled and thrown around, so what can you do?

Use your clothes and socks to protect valuable, breakable items. For example, if you have a small, glass trinket that you’re trying to transport and can’t bring in your carry-on, stick it in a sock. Then, wrap that sock in t-shirts and other clothing to keep it safe on the journey home.    

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64. Put checked liquids inside more than one plastic bag in case of leaks
Pros: Liquids won’t leak all over your stuff
What you need: Quart- and gallon-sized Ziploc bags, hair tie or rubber band
Cost: $5*
If you’re checking liquids like mouthwash and makeup foundation, the last thing you want to have happen is the liquids leak. It can happen, especially in transit, when your luggage is jostled and thrown about. There’s nothing more annoying than opening your suitcase and seeing that all your clothes have to be re-washed.

To mitigate and even prevent leakage, place your checked liquids in more than one plastic bag. Another trick is to take a small Ziploc bag and place it over the bottle’s lid. Then, wrap a hair tie around the base of the lid, sealing it off before you put the entire bottle into a gallon-size Ziploc.