What is the difference between carry-on and checked baggage? When should you choose carry-on luggage instead of checking your bag? In this quick read, you’ll find all the answers you need to pack wisely for your next grand adventure.
The Pros of Carry-On Luggage
Peace of Mind
When you carry your luggage with you, you never have to worry about it getting lost or being sent to the wrong location. Accidents happen, and sometimes you’re stranded in a foreign land without your luggage because of an unfortunate mixup.
Save money
With most airlines, passengers are allowed to bring one piece of carry-on luggage free of charge.
Save time
Waiting for your luggage after a long red-eye flight is never fun. Instead of standing around a conveyor belt waiting for your suitcase, you can walk off the plane with your luggage in hand.
The Cons of Carry-On Luggage
Size Limitations
There is a size limitation for carry-on luggage, which means you have to pack light. Large bags are sometimes approved; however, you may be required to pay a fee.
Convenience
One of the biggest drawbacks to carry-on luggage is that you have to take it with you everywhere you go in the airport. And if you’re traveling solo, that means you’ll have nobody to hold your bag for you if you need to use the restroom.
Restrictions
There are TSA carry-on restrictions that you’ll need to abide by. For example, you can’t pack liquids that are in a container larger than 3.4 ounces.
The Pros of Checked Luggage
Size Matters
If you’re packing for a lengthy or complex adventure, the size of your luggage will make a great difference in your trip. Sometimes you need to pack heavy, and checking your bags will allow you to do just that.
Freedom
Want to bring a bottle of wine home from your trip? How about some foreign jams and jellies? A big container of brand name conditioner? When you check your luggage, you can pack just about anything.
Less Stress
If you’re a natural born over-packer who likes to be prepared for any situation that comes your way, packing light in a carry-on bag can be stressful. Packing checked luggage (or stuffing it with souvenirs) is one less thing to worry about.
The Cons of Checked Luggage
More Money
There are a few airlines out there that don’t charge their passengers to check one bag, but many do. If you’re checking your luggage, expect a fee.
Hassle
While checking your luggage frees up your hands during your time at the airport, it can be a hassle to check your bag in the first place. Plus, you’ll have to collect your bag once your plane lands.
A Lot More Junk
If you have the option to pack more than you need, you’re probably going to. An overstuffed, disorganized suitcase can be a pain to deal with during your trip, and it’s a whole lot heavier.
Pack Smarter with Nomatic
Whether you’re looking for a sleek travel bag that will fit in the overhead luggage bin, or you need a spacious suitcase for your next big vacation, we’ve got everything you need at Nomatic. Check out our wide selection of high-quality luggage and travel gear, designed to keep all of your belongings thoroughly protected and well organized.