How To Protect Your Backpack When Checked as Luggage in 2023

Have you ever had to check in your backpack as luggage during a trip? While backpacks are great for carrying everything you need, they may not meet the airline’s carry-on requirements, and you’re left with no other option but to check them in. However, checking in your backpack can be nerve-wracking as you never know if it’ll arrive at your destination unscathed or worse, lost.

Fortunately, there are practical ways to protect your backpack when it’s checked in as luggage. In this article, we’ll discuss some tried-and-tested techniques to keep your backpack safe and secure during your travels. 

From covering your backpack with a protective cover to using combination locks, we’ll cover everything you need to know to give you peace of mind during your next trip. So, let’s get started with some practical tips and tricks to protect your backpack when checked as luggage.

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Protect Your Backpack When Checked as Luggage

Traveling with a backpack is a popular choice for many travelers. When traveling, your backpack becomes your lifeline. It holds all your essential items, from clothes to gadgets, and ensures that you’re ready for anything. 

However, when it comes to checking your backpack in as luggage, there are several risks that come with it. Your backpack could be damaged, tampered with, or even stolen. In this article, we’ll discuss how to protect your backpack when checked in as luggage, so you can have peace of mind during your travels.

Choose a Durable Backpack

The first step in protecting your backpack during air travel is to choose a durable backpack. When shopping for a backpack, look for one made of high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Backpacks made of materials like nylon, polyester, and canvas are usually strong and durable. Also, check the zippers, stitching, and other components to ensure they are sturdy and well-made.

Related: Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase

Pack Your Backpack Properly

Packing your backpack properly can help prevent damage to your belongings during transport. When packing, use packing cubes or compression sacks to organize your items and maximize space. Place heavier items at the bottom of the backpack and lighter items on top. Also, avoid overpacking your backpack, as this can put unnecessary stress on the zippers and seams.

Related: How to Pack Clothes in a Backpack for a More Comfortable

Use a Backpack Cover

A backpack cover is an excellent investment if you travel frequently with a backpack. A backpack cover is a lightweight, water-resistant cover that can be easily slipped over your backpack. 

The cover protects your backpack from dirt, moisture, and other potential hazards during transport. Many backpack covers are also designed with bright colors or reflective elements that can make your backpack more visible and easier to identify.

One of the easiest ways to protect your backpack is to cover it with a protective layer. You can use a rain cover, a garbage bag, or any other suitable material that can protect it from scratches, tears, and spills. This layer not only helps prevent damage but also keeps your backpack clean and dry during transport.

What will you need

• Rain cover or garbage bag (Salzmann 3M Reflective Backpack Cover).
• Joy Walker Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover.
• Tape (optional).

Process

1. Ensure your backpack is clean and dry before covering it.
2. If using a rain cover, stretch it over your backpack and adjust it accordingly. If using a garbage bag, cut off the bottom to create an opening and slide it over your backpack.
3. If using a garbage bag, you can tape the opening shut for added security.

Securing Backpack and All Straps

Before checking in your backpack, it is essential to secure all the straps to prevent them from getting caught in the luggage conveyor belts. Unsecured straps can also snag on other luggage, potentially damaging your backpack or causing inconvenience to other travelers. Make sure to buckle all straps and tuck them inside your backpack.

Related: How to Make Backpack Straps Shorter | Best Guide

What will you need

• Your backpack.
• HS UV Resistant Heavy Duty Long Cable Zip Ties 24 Inch.
• Fixson Multi-Purpose Self-Locking Cable Ties.

Process

1. Double-check that all straps are securely buckled.
2. Tuck all straps inside your backpack, so they don’t get caught in any machinery.

Combination Locks

A combination lock is an effective way to secure your backpack and prevent unauthorized access. You can lock the zippers together or attach the lock to the backpack’s loops or handles. Combination locks are available in various sizes and designs and can be purchased from most travel stores or online retailers.

Secure Your Backpack with a TSA-Approved Lock

When checking your backpack as luggage, it’s important to secure it with a TSA-approved lock. A TSA-approved lock is designed to be opened by TSA agents if they need to inspect your backpack. These locks are also more secure than regular locks because they cannot be easily cut or picked. Just make sure to keep the key or combination with you, as TSA agents will not keep it.

What will you need

• Combination lock
• TSA Approved Luggage Travel Lock, Set-Your-Own Combination Lock.
• Forge Quality TSA Approved Luggage Locks for Travel Accessories.

Process

1. Choose a combination lock that fits your backpack’s zippers or handles.
2. Thread the lock through the zipper pulls or backpack handles.
3. Set your combination code and ensure it’s secure.

Seal All Liquids Inside Your Backpack

If you’re carrying liquids in your backpack, make sure to pack them in sealed containers and place them in a separate compartment. It is essential to comply with the TSA guidelines on liquids to avoid any inconvenience during security checks. Also, keep in mind that the pressure changes during the flight can cause leaks, so it’s crucial to double-check that all your liquids are sealed correctly.

What will you need

• Sealed containers.

Process

1. Place all liquid items in sealed containers.
2. Ensure that the containers are tightly sealed to prevent leaks.
3. Store the containers in a separate compartment in your backpack.

Consider Shipping Your Backpack Instead

If you’re worried about the safety of your backpack during air travel, you may want to consider shipping it instead. Shipping your backpack can be more expensive than checking it as luggage, but it can also be a more secure option. When shipping your backpack, use a reputable shipping company and make sure to insure your package for the full value of your backpack.

Keep Important Items with You

Finally, when traveling with a backpack, it’s always a good idea to keep important items with you. Items like passports, tickets, and electronics should always be kept in your carry-on bag. This way, if your checked backpack is lost or delayed, you’ll still have the essentials with you.

In conclusion, protecting your backpack during air travel is essential to ensure that your belongings arrive at your destination intact. By choosing a durable backpack, using a backpack cover, packing your backpack properly, securing it with a TSA-approved lock, considering shipping it instead, and keeping important items with you, you can help prevent damage and theft to your backpack and its contents.

Remember, a little extra effort can go a long way in protecting your backpack when checked as luggage.

Conclusion

Checking in your backpack as luggage can be stressful, but taking the necessary precautions can help ensure your belongings arrive at your destination safely and securely. Covering your backpack, securing all straps, using combination locks, and sealing all liquids can make a significant difference in protecting your backpack from damage or theft.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience and focus on enjoying your trip.

FAQ’s

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure the safety of your backpack and belongings during your travels.