Plastic suitcase at the airport: Is it worth it?

After trial and serious mistakes – and more than a few decades of travel – I have collected some hard-earned strategies to improve a trip. And while I'm generally in the habit of "prevention is better than cure," as I head for the check-in counter, I'm always amazed by the people lining up for their suitcases wrapped in huge layers of plastic.

Not only do they charge $ 15 for the privilege, but what comes to my mind is a) the endless rolls of plastic that will clog landfills around the world in the next few centuries, and b ) the fundamental reality that a sticky finger porter or the like wants to get into your business, you'll just need a nail file or the like. In fact, having your bag packaged is like posting a sign saying "expensive goods worth stealing indoors". That's all the more so if you wrap up an expensive case of Louis Vuitton.

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It turns out that the experts are in agreement with me.

"If someone really wants to delve into your valuables, he only needs a small set of scissors or a nail file to access them," says Angus. Kidman, travel expert at finder.com.au. "You can even use a set of house keys to pierce the plastic."

At best, the packaging can protect against minor scratches and scratches, but I stress that it does not matter.

Perhaps the most important splashing benefit is to protect cloth cases in adverse weather conditions, such as snow or rain. If there is a chance that the bag remains exposed on the tarmac, it will ensure at least that it stays dry.

"I protect my property from the elements," says Demi Kavaratzis, tour and travel manager at Expedia Australia. "If a bad storm is on the radar, your bag – and its contents – could be soaked. This is not a good start for a vacation! "

Although the value of the package is at best fragmentary, if you really want to make your luggage more secure, there are steps you can take to ensure that your precious cargo arrives safely and safely.

"Instead, invest in a smart lock like AirBolt," Angus advises. "He does not need keys and allows you to track your luggage."

These high quality zip ties are probably much more dissuasive.

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