Wirecutter Experts Say Checked Bags Are Okay for Travel

For years, travel experts said carry-on only was best. But things change. Wirecutter's travel team now says checking a bag can be smart. This is big news for travelers. This article explains why. We will look at the reasons. We will give you tips. We will help you decide what is best for you.

Travel light was the old rule. It saved time and money. But new fees and rules change things. Wirecutter is a product review site owned by The New York Times. Their experts test travel gear. They know what works. Their new advice is surprising. They say checking a bag can make travel easier. This guide explores their reasons. It will help you travel better.

Why The Carry-On Only Rule Has Changed

For a long time, everyone said pack light. Take only a carry-on. This avoided baggage fees. It saved time at the airport. You did not wait at the carousel. You could not lose your bag. This was good advice. But airline policies have changed. So has travel.

Many airlines now charge for carry-on bags. This is especially true on budget airlines. The fee for a carry-on can be high. Sometimes it is more than checking a bag. This changes the math. You might save money by checking a bag. Also, planes are more full. Overhead bin space is limited. You might be forced to gate-check your bag anyway. This means you pay but get no benefit.

Wirecutter experts noticed this trend. They saw that the old advice did not always work. They decided to re-think the rule. Their new guide gives permission to check a bag. This is a major shift in travel thinking.

The Cost Factor: Fees Have Changed Everything

Airline fees drive this change. Ten years ago, checking a bag was expensive. Carrying on was free. Now, that is not always true. Many airlines charge for all bags. Some charge more for carry-ons than checked bags.

For example, Frontier Airlines charges for carry-on bags. The fee can be $30 to $60 each way. Checking a bag can be cheaper. It might be only $30. Spirit Airlines has similar fees. This makes checking a bag the better financial choice. You have to check your airline's fees before you fly.

NerdWallet tracks airline baggage fees. Their data shows how complex it is. The best choice depends on your airline. Always check the fees before you pack.

Overhead Bin Space is a Battlefield

Planes are very full today. This means the overhead bins fill up fast. If you board late, there may be no space. The airline will gate-check your bag. This means they take it at the plane door. They put it under the plane. You get it back at the gate after landing.

The problem? You still paid the carry-on fee. But you got the service of a checked bag. This is the worst of both worlds. You pay but get no convenience. Wirecutter says it is better to check it yourself. Then you know what to expect. You can pack accordingly.

According to Bureau of Transportation Statistics, load factors are high. This means planes are almost full. This fight for bin space will not end soon.

How To Decide: Checked Bag vs. Carry-On

So, when should you check a bag? It is not always the right choice. You need to think about your trip. Here is a simple guide to help you decide.

Ask Yourself These Questions

First, what airline are you flying? Check their bag fee policy. See if checking is cheaper. Second, how long is your trip? A weekend trip may need only a carry-on. A two-week vacation may need a checked bag. Third, what are you bringing? You cannot pack large liquids in a carry-on. If you need special items, checking might be better.

Fourth, what is your airport like? Some airports have slow baggage claim. Others are fast. Fifth, are you connecting? The risk of lost bags is higher on connecting flights. This might make carry-on better. Think about these things before you choose.

Step-by-Step Decision Guide

1. Check Airline Fees: Go to your airline's website. Look at their fee page. Compare carry-on and checked bag costs.
2. Consider Trip Length: For trips under 5 days, try carry-on. For longer trips, consider checking a bag.
3. List Your Items: Write down what you need to pack. If you have over-the-limit liquids or large gear, you may need to check.
4. Evaluate Airport Risk: Is your airport known for delays? A quick search can tell you. If baggage claim is slow, carry-on might be less stress.
5. Make the Choice: Weigh the cost, convenience, and risk. Then decide what is best for you.

Packing Tips For Checked Luggage

If you decide to check a bag, pack smart. You want your things to be safe. You want to avoid problems. Here are some expert tips.

Use a Good Suitcase

Not all bags are equal. A good checked bag is strong. It has good wheels. It is easy to spot on the carousel. Wirecutter recommends the Travelpro Platinum Elite. It is durable and easy to maneuver. A bright color or unique tag helps you find it fast.

Pack To Prevent Damage

Bags get thrown around. Pack fragile items in the middle. Wrap them in clothes. Use packing cubes to organize. This keeps things neat. It also adds a layer of protection. Roll your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles.

Always Have a Backup Plan

Sometimes bags get lost. Be ready for this. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on. Include important medicine. Have your toiletries with you. This way, if your bag is delayed, you are okay.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has rules on lost bags. But it is better to be prepared. Do not pack anything priceless in your checked bag.

The Psychology of Travel: Less Stress

Carrying a heavy bag through the airport is stressful. You have to lift it into the bin. You worry about space. Checking a bag can reduce this stress. You drop it off and forget it. Then you can walk轻松ly to your gate.

This mental ease is valuable. Vacation should be relaxing. Starting with stress is bad. Wirecutter experts talk about this. The goal is a better travel experience. Sometimes that means checking a bag.

Real Example: Family Travel

Imagine a family of four. They are going on vacation. Each person has a carry-on. That is four bags to manage through the airport. Plus personal items. It is a lot to carry. It is hard for kids.

Now, imagine they check two larger bags. Each parent manages one bag to check. The kids carry small backpacks. This is much easier. They can all walk轻松ly. They are not tired before the flight. This makes the trip start better.

Statistics: What The Data Says

Let's look at some numbers. Data helps us understand the trend.

• In 2023, major U.S. airlines made over $5 billion from baggage fees. (Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics)
• A survey found 45% of travelers feel stressed about overhead bin space. (Source: AAA Travel)
• The rate of mishandled bags is low. It is about 5 bags per 1,000 passengers. (Source: SITA Baggage IT Insights 2023)

This data shows two things. First, fees are a big business. Second, lost bags are rare. The risk is low. The stress of carry-on is real. This supports the idea that checking can be better.

Practical Tips For Checking a Bag

Ready to check a bag? Follow these tips for a smooth process.

Before You Go To The Airport

Check your airline's weight limits. Most allow 50 pounds. Weigh your bag at home. Avoid overweight fees. Put your contact info inside and outside the bag. Use a tag with your name and phone number. Take a photo of your bag. This helps if it gets lost.

At The Airport

Arrive early. Give yourself extra time to check your bag. Lines can be long. Keep your ID and boarding pass ready. After you check it, keep the claim tag. You will need it if there is a problem.

At Your Destination

Go directly to baggage claim. Check the screens for your flight number and carousel. When you get your bag, check it right away. If there is damage, go to the airline desk. Report it before you leave the airport.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really okay to check a bag now?

Yes, for many trips. Wirecutter experts say it can be the smarter choice. It depends on fees, trip length, and personal preference.

What are the biggest risks of checking a bag?

The biggest risk is a lost or delayed bag. But this is rare. The chance is about 0.5%. Another risk is damage. Pack carefully to avoid this.

How can I avoid baggage fees?

Some airline credit cards offer free checked bags. Status with an airline can also get you free bags. Always check your airline's policy.

What should I never pack in a checked bag?

Never pack valuables, medicine, important documents, or electronics. These should always be in your carry-on.

What if my checked bag is lost?

Go to the airline's baggage service office at the airport. Report it. They will start a search. You may get money for essentials you need to buy.

Are hard-shell or soft-sided bags better for checking?

Both can be good. Hard-shell bags protect better from rain and rough handling. Soft-sided bags are often lighter and can expand. Choose based on your needs.

How early should I arrive if checking a bag?

Arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight. For international, 3 hours is better. This gives time to check the bag and get through security.

Conclusion: Your Bag, Your Choice

The travel world is changing. The old rules do not always work. Wirecutter's advice is new and useful. Checking a bag is not a travel sin. It can be a smart move. It can save you money. It can reduce your stress.

Think about your own needs. Look at the costs. Consider the convenience. Then make the choice that is right for you. The goal is a better trip. Whether you carry on or check, travel safe and enjoy your journey.

Remember, good travel is about being prepared. Pack smart. Know the rules. Then you can relax and have a great time. Happy travels!