The Truth About Luggage Wrapping – Is It Worth It?

Navigating the airport can be a stressful experience. From check-in to baggage claim, there’s a lot to consider. One service you might encounter is luggage wrapping. But is it worth it?

Luggage wrapping is a service offered at many airports. It involves wrapping your suitcase in layers of plastic film. Travellers will do this for a variety of reasons, which we’ll explore in this article.

We’ll be looking into everything from the benefits of luggage wrapping, theft deterrence to damage protection. We’ll also discuss potential drawbacks, such as environmental concerns and additional costs.

Understanding Luggage Wrapping

Luggage wrapping is a protective service offered in many airports worldwide. It involves applying multiple layers of a plastic film around your suitcase. You’ll typically see this at designated airport kiosks.

How Does Luggage Wrapping Work?

The process is quick, usually taking only a few minutes. Customers pay a fee, and trained staff perform the wrapping, the resulting layer of film acts as a protective shield. The plastic used is often clear and recyclable, making it both secure and tamper-evident. This service aims to prevent baggage damage, deter theft, and provide travelers with peace of mind.

Top Benefits of Luggage Wrapping

Luggage wrapping offers several advantages to travelers. These benefits can enhance the security and integrity of your belongings during transit.

Theft Deterrence

One primary benefit is the deterrence of theft. Wrapped luggage is more challenging for thieves to access quickly. The visible barrier makes your suitcase a less attractive target.

Protection

Additionally, wrapping provides protection from damage. The plastic film helps keep the suitcase closed, preventing it from bursting open. It also cushions your luggage against impact.

Cleaner Luggage

A plastic wrap creates a barrier against dirt and moisture. Your luggage will travel through multiple different environments where your luggage can get dirty. This layer helps keep the contents clean and dry.

Find Your Luggage

Identifying your luggage on the carousel becomes easier. Wrapped luggage stands out due to its unique appearance. This makes it simple to spot amid similar-looking bags.

View our previous article explaining how to make luggage stand out.

Protection from Chemicals

Some destinations, including Australia, the Maldives, and China, spray arriving luggage with disinfectant or insecticide. Wrapping protects your belongings from being soaked in chemicals, a benefit often overlooked until it’s too late.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, luggage wrapping gives peace of mind. Knowing that an extra layer safeguards your belongings can ease travel stress. Many travelers find this reassuring.

What Does TSA Say About Wrapped Luggage?

A recent update from the TSA makes one point clear: wrapping your luggage does not affect the security screening process. All checked bags, wrapped or not, are scanned using advanced 3D X-ray machines and, in some cases, detection dogs.

If your bag is flagged, TSA officers will cut the plastic wrap to inspect its contents. While they repack the bag and leave a notice, they will not rewrap it.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While luggage wrapping offers benefits, some drawbacks exist. Environmental concerns arise due to the plastic used. Despite being recyclable, the wrap contributes to waste.

Extra Cost

Additional costs are another factor. While the service is generally affordable, frequent travelers may find costs add up over time. This makes budgeting important.

Learn more about the costs of luggage wrapping on BagWraps website.

Security Checks Interruptions

If TSA or another authority needs to inspect your bag, the wrap will be cut. Unless the service offers free rewrapping, you’ll be left without the protection you paid for.

Slower Checking-In

Lastly, the extra step of wrapping might extend your check-in time. This is something travelers should plan for when heading to the airport.

Environmental Concerns

While some luggage-wrapping companies claim they only use 100 percent recyclable plastic, many airports are starting to consider banning plastic luggage wrapping due to environmental concerns.

Making an Informed Decision

When deciding on luggage wrapping, weigh the pros and cons, consider the nature of your trip and how often you travel. Think about what valuables you’re carrying. Luggage wrapping provides an extra layer of security and protection for sensitive items.

You should also use a TSA Lock to provide extra security without slowing down check-in times and security checks.

Look into the services offered at your departing airport. Availability and quality can vary greatly, which might influence your decision. Don’t forget to take into account any environmental concerns. If sustainability is a priority, explore eco-friendly wrapping options.

Other tips include photographing your luggage, as having pictures of your bag and its contents can speed up claims if it’s lost or damaged. Also, use a TSID tag when travelling so that you can be contacted if your luggage is lost and found by airport staff or fellow travellers.

Conclusion: Balancing the Pros and Cons

Luggage wrapping provides useful benefits but is not without its drawbacks. Consider its value for your particular needs when traveling.

Ultimately, your decision should balance security, costs, and environmental impact. Choose wisely to enhance your travel experience.