Checked luggage is any luggage that travelers do not take in the cabin, but the airline ships to their destinations. Whether the item goes on the same flight as the traveler or not, the same rules apply. There are some general rules that apply to all major airlines, but travelers should familiarize themselves with the regulations regarding checked luggage for the particular airlines and countries through which they are flying.

Understanding Checked Luggage Restrictions

While there are particular rules for luggage restrictions, it is important to know that the ultimate decision on any items is up to the discretion of on-site authorities. In other words, if an item seems suspicious, even though security often allows such an item, security may choose to dispose of it. Furthermore, there might be two or more sets of guidelines to follow. In America, the Transportation Security Administration sets the regulations, but an airline might restrict items that the TSA allows.

Weapons Restrictions

Typically, no organization or airline allows weapons in carry-on luggage, but certain weapons can travel in checked luggage. Properly secured and sheathed blades can go in checked luggage. This is everything from kitchen knives to swords. Of course, the legality of the weapon may be an issue; for instance, a legal item that has been altered could be deemed illegal. Firearms can also go in checked luggage, provided that travelers pack any ammunition according to national standards, secure their firearms and check only unloaded firearms. Note that items like flare guns and gun parts fall under firearm restrictions.

Tools and Sport Items

Most tools are OK in checked luggage, but weapons and explosives restrictions apply to tools. For example, sharp tools must have sheaths like blades. Sporting goods, such as bats, golf clubs and basketballs, can go in checked luggage, but security often treats some sporting goods like weapons. Security handles fishing items like spear guns and filet knives as weapons. The same goes for martial arts items like throwing stars.

Explosive Items

Very few explosive, flammable or caustic items, or items that are potentially explosive, flammable or caustic can go in checked luggage. The rare exceptions are personal lighters and life vest gas cartridges. However, personal lighters in checked luggage cannot have fluid. Even replicas of explosive devices like grenades that look real are not to go in checked luggage.

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