You arrive at your vacation destination, head to baggage claim, and wait for your suitcase to appear. Twenty minutes pass, then forty, and eventually the carousel stops moving without your luggage in sight. Losing a few outfits is frustrating enough, but what if that missing suitcase contains your prescription medications, expensive eyeglasses, or the medical equipment you need to sleep?
For travelers over 60, packing mistakes can turn an ordinary baggage delay into an expensive or potentially serious problem. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) acknowledges that checked luggage can be delayed, damaged, or lost, and specifically recommends keeping critical items and valuables in carry-on bags. Understanding what not to pack in checked luggage can help older travelers avoid unnecessary expenses, protect their health, and enjoy a less stressful vacation.
