If you’re taking a flight, then chances are you’re going to have a fair amount of luggage with you, and you will probably check at least some of those bags.  Planning ahead can prevent or reduce the risk of having any possessions get lost, stolen, or damages.  There are some simple steps you can take to avoid common luggage issues before you get to the airport.

There are some things you want to steer clear of with either carry-on or check baggage.  Mainly these are issues with prohibited items.  Of course you should never pack illegal narcotics or explosives.  There are other items which seem less harmless but that are prohibited which you should be aware of.  These include lighters and matches, gasses and pressure containers, flammable substances, oxidizers, poisons, infectious substances, corrosives, organics, radioactives, magnetic material, wet-cell batteries, chemical oxygen generators, fuel, and more.  Additionally there are items which may be place din checked bags only such as:  sporting goods, knives, cutting instruments, firearms, firearm replicas, ammo, paintball supplies, tools, and dry ice.

Most airlines allow a maximum of 2 carry-on pieces, but you may also bring items like umbrellas and strollers in addition to the 2 bags.  If additional baggage exceeds weight limits you may be charged an extra fee.  You should check-in at least 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights to ensure you’re checked bags make it into the plane.  International flights sometimes have more restrictions on check-in times, so you should inquire about this beforehand.