I’ve always noticed people getting their luggage or packages wrapped at the airport, especially in the international terminal where longer trips and bulkier items are common. But until my recent trip to Shanghai, I never really considered it for myself.
Just a few hours before our flight, we had to buy a last-minute suitcase from a convenience store. It wasn’t exactly the most durable, and the zipper looked like it might burst during the journey. To keep everything secure, we decided to have it wrapped at the airport.
That experience got me thinking about all the questions I had about wrapping items—questions I couldn’t easily find answers to online. I realized other travelers might have the same concerns. Is it worth the hassle? Does it really protect your belongings?
In this post, we’ll dive into the benefits and drawbacks of wrapping your luggage, as well as some tips to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next trip.
Luggage Wrapping at the Airport
Benefits of Wrapping Luggage
- Protection from Damage: Wrapping your luggage can protect it from scratches, scuffs, and dirt during transit. It can also help keep your bag intact if it gets jostled around during handling.
- Theft Deterrence: Wrapped luggage is less attractive to thieves as it takes more time and effort to access. This can be particularly useful in airports known for baggage theft.
- Waterproofing: If you’re traveling through areas with unpredictable weather or are concerned about liquids spilling in the luggage hold, wrapping can offer a layer of protection.
Drawbacks and Considerations
- Environmental Impact: The plastic used in wrapping contributes to waste, and not all wraps are recyclable. This is a significant downside, especially if you travel frequently.
- Security Checks: Wrapped bags may need to be opened by security, which means the wrap might be cut open, defeating the purpose. Some services do offer rewrapping, but it’s not always guaranteed.
- Accessibility Issues: Once wrapped, accessing your luggage becomes difficult. If you need to remove items due to weight restrictions or want to access something quickly, you’ll need to unwrap the entire bag.
- Cost: You do have to pay to have your luggage wrapped at the airport. For me, it was about 30 RMB (Yuan) – about $5 USD. I’ve heard that other airports can charge around $20 USD. If you have more than one bag being wrapped, this could add up to a lot of money.
Practical Tips
- Consider Alternatives: Instead of using plastic wrap, consider using a reusable luggage cover, which offers protection without excess waste.
- Research the Service: If you decide to wrap your luggage, check if the service offers free rewrapping in case security opens your bag.
- DIY Wrapping: You can wrap your luggage at home, but be sure to check with your airline, as some may only accept luggage wrapped by professional services at the airport.
Should I Get My Luggage Wrapped at the Airport?
Wrapping your luggage at the airport can provide valuable peace of mind, especially if you’re dealing with fragile or last-minute items like I did on my recent trip.
It’s an option that offers protection from damage, adds an extra layer of security, and can help keep your belongings intact during a long journey.
By weighing these factors and understanding your specific travel needs, you can make an informed decision on whether to wrap or explore alternatives like durable luggage covers.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure your items arrive safely, so choose the method that best suits your journey.
XOXO,
Julia
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About the Author:
Hey there! I’m Julia, a passionate theme park and travel writer. My love for theme parks has fueled my obsession with sharing tips and adventures for years. Join me as I uncover the magic of traveling locally and beyond!
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