Can you check laptops in luggage

Can you check laptops in luggage is a question that echoes through the minds of many travelers, prompting a deep dive into the intricate world of airline regulations, security protocols, and the paramount importance of safeguarding our digital companions. This exploration promises to unravel the complexities, moving beyond mere speculation to provide a grounded understanding of what is permissible and, more importantly, what is wise when it comes to transporting these vital devices.

The decision to place a laptop in checked baggage involves a careful consideration of various factors, from the inherent risks of the cargo hold to the specific rules governing electronic devices and their power sources. Understanding these nuances is key to ensuring your laptop arrives at your destination in the same condition it left.

Understanding the Core Inquiry: Laptops in Checked Baggage

The question of whether it’s safe or even allowed to put laptops in checked luggage is a recurring one for travelers. It stems from a natural desire to protect valuable electronics from potential damage, theft, or even accidental activation. Understanding the official guidelines and the underlying reasons behind them is crucial for making informed decisions before you head to the airport.When it comes to electronics like laptops, the primary concerns for passengers revolve around security and physical integrity.

Passengers worry about their devices being lost, stolen, or damaged during the rough handling that checked bags can sometimes endure. There’s also the concern about the lithium-ion batteries within laptops, which have specific regulations due to their potential fire hazard.

Airline and Security Agency Guidance on Electronics

Airlines and aviation security agencies generally advise against placing valuable electronics, including laptops, in checked baggage. The prevailing recommendation is to keep these items in your carry-on luggage. This advice is rooted in several factors, primarily the risk of damage and the potential for theft. Checked bags go through a much more rigorous and often less gentle handling process compared to carry-ons.

Moreover, keeping your electronics with you allows for easier screening and prevents them from being subjected to the extreme temperature fluctuations that can occur in the cargo hold.

“It is strongly recommended to keep valuable electronics, such as laptops, in your carry-on baggage.”

Common Misconceptions About Laptop Safety in Checked Baggage

Despite the clear recommendations, several misconceptions persist regarding laptops in checked luggage. One common belief is that checked baggage is somehow more secure from theft than carry-on, which is generally not true as checked bags are out of the passenger’s direct sight for extended periods. Another misconception is that laptops are always protected from physical damage in checked bags, whereas the reality is that they can be subjected to significant impact and pressure.

Finally, some travelers believe that the lithium-ion battery regulations only apply to checked baggage, when in fact, these regulations are in place for both checked and carry-on items, with specific rules for each.Here are some of the prevalent misconceptions:

• Theft Prevention: Some believe checked bags are less prone to theft than carry-ons. In reality, both can be targets, but with checked bags, you have no direct oversight during transit.
• Physical Protection: A common assumption is that checked luggage offers sufficient padding and protection. However, the baggage handling system involves tossing and stacking, which can put significant stress on even well-protected items.
• Battery Regulations: Many are confused about the rules for lithium-ion batteries. While there are strict rules for spare batteries (which must be in carry-on), the batteries installed in devices like laptops have specific requirements for both carry-on and checked baggage, often requiring the device to be turned off and protected from accidental activation.

Security Regulations and Laptop Handling

When it comes to taking your tech with you, especially laptops, understanding the rules is key to a smooth airport experience. It’s not just about getting through security; it’s about ensuring everyone’s safety, particularly when it comes to the batteries powering our devices. The regulations around electronics in checked baggage are pretty specific, and they’re primarily driven by one major concern: fire safety.The core of these regulations revolves around the lithium-ion batteries that are standard in most modern laptops.

When considering whether you can check laptops in luggage, it’s also worth noting that while your device is stowed away, you might wonder about powering up smaller gadgets, and indeed, can i charge phone with laptop charger. Nevertheless, for your main laptop, it’s generally advisable to carry it in your hand luggage to ensure its safety and accessibility.

These batteries, while incredibly convenient and powerful, can be volatile under certain conditions. They store a lot of energy, and if damaged, short-circuited, or overheated, they can catch fire. The challenge with checked baggage is that these fires can be difficult to detect and extinguish once the bag is sealed and stowed away in the cargo hold. This is why airlines and aviation authorities have strict guidelines.

Lithium-Ion Battery Regulations for Checked Luggage

The primary international body setting standards for air travel is the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Their Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air form the basis for most national and airline-specific regulations. For lithium-ion batteries, the key principle is that batteries that are part of a device (i.e., installed in the device) are generally permitted in checked baggage, but with important caveats.

However, spare batteries (not installed in a device) and power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage only. Laptops, being devices with installed batteries, fall under the “installed battery” category.This distinction is critical. The rationale is that a device with its battery installed is generally more stable. The casing of the laptop provides some protection, and the battery is less likely to be accidentally activated or short-circuited.

Spare batteries, on the other hand, are more exposed and have a higher risk of accidental contact between terminals, leading to a short circuit and potential fire.

Reasons for Battery Safety Regulations

The danger posed by lithium-ion batteries in the cargo hold is significant. Unlike the passenger cabin, where flight attendants are trained to handle such emergencies and fire extinguishers are readily available, the cargo hold is largely inaccessible during flight. A fire in the cargo hold can escalate rapidly and is extremely difficult to combat, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences.These regulations are designed to mitigate the risk of such an event through a multi-layered approach:

• Fire Prevention: By keeping spare batteries out of checked luggage, the risk of accidental short circuits and subsequent fires is significantly reduced.
• Containment and Detection: While devices with installed batteries are allowed, the concern remains. Regulations often require devices to be completely turned off (not in sleep or hibernation mode) and protected from accidental activation. This is because even in sleep mode, some devices can generate heat.
• Emergency Response Limitations: The inability to directly address a fire in the cargo hold makes prevention the most critical strategy.

The ICAO has classified lithium-ion batteries as a dangerous good, and their regulations aim to balance the convenience of modern electronics with the paramount need for aviation safety.

Security Personnel Procedures for Electronics in Checked Baggage

When your checked luggage goes through the screening process, X-ray machines are the primary tool used to inspect its contents. These machines can identify various materials and shapes, including electronics like laptops. Security personnel are trained to recognize the distinctive Artikels of laptops and other electronic devices.The procedures generally involve:

• Initial X-ray Screening: Your bag will pass through an X-ray scanner. Operators look for anomalies and items that might pose a security risk. Laptops are typically flagged as items that may require further inspection.
• Secondary Screening: If a laptop is detected, the bag may be pulled aside for a secondary inspection. This usually means a security officer will open the bag and visually inspect the laptop.
• Device Status Check: Officers may ask you to power on your laptop to prove it is a functional device and not a dummy or a disguised explosive. This is a common procedure, especially for electronics. They want to ensure the device is indeed a laptop and not something else disguised as one.
• Battery Verification (Less Common for Installed): While the focus is usually on powering on the device, in rare cases or if there are specific concerns, they might inquire about the battery. However, for a standard laptop with its battery installed, the primary check is confirming it’s a functional electronic device.
• Re-sealing: After inspection, if everything is in order, your bag will be re-sealed and sent on its way.

It’s important to note that while laptops are generally allowed in checked baggage, the decision to allow any item ultimately rests with the security personnel and the airline, based on their assessment of the situation and adherence to safety protocols. The goal is always to ensure that all baggage is safe for transport.

Protecting Your Laptop During Transit

Now that we’ve cleared up the “can you?” and the “why” of laptops in checked bags, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of keeping your precious tech safe and sound while it’s navigating the often-turbulent journey through the baggage system. This isn’t about just tossing it in; it’s about smart preparation to minimize risks.Think of your suitcase as a temporary, somewhat chaotic, storage unit.

Your laptop, being a delicate piece of electronics, needs a bit of extra TLC to survive the bumps, drops, and shifts that are part of its adventure. The goal is to create a buffer zone and secure it so it doesn’t become another casualty of the luggage carousel.

Preparing Your Laptop for Checked Luggage

Getting your laptop ready for its trip in the hold is a multi-step process that focuses on data security and physical protection. It’s about anticipating potential issues and mitigating them before they happen.

1. Back Up Your Data: Before anything else, ensure all your important files are backed up to a cloud service (like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive) or an external hard drive. This is your ultimate safety net in case the worst happens.
2. Power Down Completely: Do not simply put your laptop to sleep. Shut it down entirely. This prevents accidental power-ons and potential overheating or battery drain.
3. Remove Peripherals: Take out any external hard drives, USB sticks, SD cards, or even mice. These can get dislodged and lost or damaged.
4. Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the laptop to remove any dust or grime. This isn’t strictly for transit but is good practice.
5. Secure Loose Cables: If you must leave a power cable attached, coil it neatly and secure it with a velcro strap. Better yet, pack it separately in your carry-on.

Methods for Physical Protection

The primary concern for a laptop in checked baggage is physical impact. Think about the journey: it gets tossed, stacked, and potentially dropped. Your protection strategy needs to account for this.

Padding and Cushioning Techniques

The key is to create a shock-absorbent environment around your laptop. This means using materials that can absorb impact and prevent direct force from reaching the device.

• Bubble Wrap: Multiple layers of bubble wrap can provide excellent cushioning. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped but not so tight that it puts pressure on the screen or chassis.
• Soft Clothing: Strategically placed soft items like t-shirts, sweaters, or socks can act as padding. The trick is to use them to fill gaps and prevent the laptop from shifting, rather than just dumping them on top.
• Foam Inserts: If you have a dedicated laptop case with foam, ensure it’s snug. For generic suitcases, you can sometimes find pre-cut foam inserts or create your own by layering craft foam.
• Inflatable Air Cushions: These can be a good option for filling larger voids in your suitcase, providing a soft barrier.

Strategic Placement within the Suitcase

Where you put the laptop within your suitcase matters. It’s about minimizing exposure to the hardest impacts.

• Center of the Suitcase: Place the laptop in the middle of your suitcase, surrounded by softer items on all sides. This prevents it from being directly hit if the suitcase is dropped on its side or corner.
• Avoid Edges and Corners: Never place your laptop directly against the rigid outer shell of the suitcase, especially near the wheels or handles, as these areas are most susceptible to impact.
• Layering is Key: Ensure there’s a layer of soft material both below and above the laptop before it encounters any hard items or the suitcase shell.

Comparison of Protective Cases for Checked Baggage

When it comes to cases, not all are created equal, especially when considering the rigors of checked baggage.

• Padded Laptop Sleeves: These offer a basic level of protection, usually against minor scuffs and light bumps. They are generally not sufficient on their own for checked luggage as they lack robust impact resistance. Think of them as a first layer of defense.
• Hard-Shell Laptop Cases: These are designed with a rigid exterior and often a padded interior. They offer significantly better protection against crushing and punctures. Look for models with good latching mechanisms and substantial internal padding. They are a strong contender for checked baggage.
• Pelican-Style Cases (or similar rugged cases): These are the heavy-duty option. Often waterproof, dustproof, and crushproof, they are built for extreme conditions. While excellent for protection, they can be bulky and heavy, adding to your overall luggage weight. For valuable or sensitive equipment, these are the gold standard.
• Suitcase with Integrated Laptop Compartment: Some suitcases have dedicated, padded compartments for laptops. While convenient, the effectiveness of this protection depends heavily on the quality of the padding and the overall construction of the suitcase. It’s crucial to assess the padding thickness and the compartment’s positioning.

“The best protective case for checked baggage is one that combines a rigid outer shell with substantial internal padding, designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy.”

Checklist for Packing a Laptop in Checked Luggage

This checklist helps ensure you’ve covered all your bases, from what to include for protection to what to leave out to avoid issues.

Essential Items to Include:

• A padded laptop sleeve or a hard-shell case.
• Multiple layers of bubble wrap or soft clothing for additional cushioning.
• Velcro straps for securing any necessary cables.
• A complete data backup (cloud or external drive).
• A printed copy of your laptop’s serial number and any relevant contact information, just in case.

Items to Exclude or Pack Separately:

• External hard drives or USB drives containing sensitive data (better in carry-on).
• Charging cables and adapters (consider packing these in your carry-on to ensure you have them immediately upon arrival).
• Loose batteries or power banks (these are often prohibited in checked baggage).
• Any liquids or aerosols near the laptop.
• The laptop’s original box, unless it’s specifically designed for transport and adds significant protection.

Risks and Mitigation Strategies

While the convenience of stowing your laptop in checked baggage might be tempting, it’s crucial to understand the potential downsides. This section delves into the common risks and, more importantly, Artikels practical steps you can take to protect your valuable electronics during transit. Being informed is your best defense against loss, damage, or malfunction.The cargo hold of an airplane, while seemingly stable, presents a unique set of environmental challenges that can impact sensitive electronics like laptops.

Beyond the obvious risks of physical damage and theft, temperature fluctuations and humidity can play a significant role in a laptop’s long-term health and immediate performance.

Theft of Electronics in Checked Luggage

The unfortunate reality is that theft from checked baggage does occur. While airlines have security measures in place, items can still go missing. Proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.To mitigate the risk of theft, consider the following strategies:

• Never pack your laptop in your checked bag if it’s avoidable. This is the most effective mitigation strategy. If at all possible, keep your laptop with you in the cabin as carry-on luggage.
• Use a discreet, non-descript bag for your laptop if it must be checked. Avoid brightly colored or branded laptop cases that might attract attention. A plain black or grey bag is less likely to stand out.
• Secure your laptop within your luggage. Place it in the center of your suitcase, surrounded by soft items like clothing. This provides cushioning and makes it less accessible to a quick grab.
• Consider a TSA-approved lock for your luggage. While not foolproof against determined thieves, it can deter casual opportunistic theft. Ensure the lock is sturdy and properly engaged.
• Photograph your laptop and its serial number before travel. In the unfortunate event of a loss, this documentation is invaluable for reporting and insurance purposes.
• Avoid leaving your laptop unattended in any part of the airport, including baggage claim. Be vigilant when collecting your checked bags.

Environmental Factors Affecting Laptop Performance and Longevity

The cargo hold is not climate-controlled in the same way as the passenger cabin. This means your laptop can be exposed to extreme temperature swings and varying humidity levels, which can have detrimental effects.Environmental factors in the cargo hold can impact a laptop in several ways:

• Temperature Extremes: Laptops are designed to operate within a specific temperature range. Extreme cold can cause components to contract, potentially leading to cracks or damage. Extreme heat can cause overheating, affecting battery life, and in severe cases, damaging internal components like the hard drive or motherboard. For instance, a laptop left in a cargo hold during a hot tarmac delay could reach temperatures far exceeding its safe operating limits.

• Humidity and Condensation: High humidity can lead to condensation forming on internal components when the laptop is exposed to cooler temperatures. This moisture can cause short circuits and corrosion, significantly reducing the laptop’s lifespan and potentially leading to immediate failure.
• Pressure Changes: While less of a direct threat to modern laptops compared to older technology, significant pressure changes can still stress certain components, particularly if there are any pre-existing weaknesses.

To protect against these environmental risks, it’s always best to keep your laptop in the temperature-controlled cabin. If checking is absolutely unavoidable, ensure it’s well-padded and consider using a moisture-resistant bag.

Emergency Procedures for Damaged or Missing Laptops

Despite your best efforts, incidents can happen. Knowing the correct procedures to follow if your laptop is damaged or goes missing from checked luggage is crucial for a swift resolution.If your laptop is damaged or missing from checked luggage, follow these emergency procedures:

1. At the Airport (Baggage Claim): Immediately upon discovering damage or that your laptop is missing, report it to the airline’s baggage service desk before leaving the airport. Do not wait.
2. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR): The airline will require you to fill out a PIR. Be as detailed as possible about the item, its condition (if damaged), and the circumstances of its disappearance or damage.
3. Document Everything: Take clear photographs of any damage to your laptop and its packaging. If the bag itself is damaged, photograph that as well. Keep all your travel documents, including your boarding pass, baggage claim tags, and receipts for the laptop.
4. Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider: If you have travel insurance that covers electronics, notify your provider as soon as possible. They will have specific procedures and documentation requirements.
5. Contact Your Credit Card Company: Some credit cards offer built-in travel insurance or purchase protection. Check your cardholder benefits and contact them to see if you have coverage.
6. File a Police Report (for Theft): If you suspect theft, consider filing a police report. This can be necessary for insurance claims and may help in the recovery of your item, though recovery rates are often low.
7. Follow Up Consistently: Keep track of your PIR number and any case reference numbers provided by the airline or insurance company. Follow up regularly on the status of your claim.

Alternatives to Checked Baggage for Laptops

When it comes to transporting your valuable laptop, the decision of where to pack it is a crucial one. While checked baggage might seem like a convenient option to free up space in your carry-on, it comes with significant risks for electronic devices. This section explores the benefits of keeping your laptop with you in the cabin and provides guidance on how to do it safely and effectively.

The primary reason to opt for carrying your laptop in the cabin rather than checking it is security and peace of mind. Checked baggage is subjected to rough handling, extreme temperature fluctuations, and potential theft. Laptops, with their delicate screens and sensitive internal components, are particularly vulnerable to damage and loss in this environment. By keeping your laptop with you, you maintain direct control over its safety and accessibility.

Carry-on vs. Checked Baggage for Laptops, Can you check laptops in luggage

The benefits of carrying a laptop in carry-on luggage are manifold, primarily centering on protection and accessibility. In the cabin, your laptop is protected from the harsh conditions of the cargo hold, such as extreme temperature changes and the physical stress of baggage handling. Furthermore, you can keep an eye on it at all times, significantly reducing the risk of theft or accidental damage.

While checked baggage offers more space, the trade-off in security for your electronics is substantial. Many travelers find the slight inconvenience of carrying a laptop in the cabin well worth the enhanced safety it provides.

Securing Your Laptop in Carry-on Luggage

To ensure your laptop remains safe and sound during your flight, a few best practices can make all the difference. A well-padded laptop sleeve is essential, offering a first line of defense against bumps and scratches. When placing it in your carry-on, position it in the middle of the bag, surrounded by softer items like clothing, to absorb any impact.

Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects directly on top of it. Many carry-on bags are designed with dedicated, padded compartments for electronics, which are ideal.

• Invest in a high-quality, padded laptop sleeve that fits snugly.
• Place the sleeve in the center of your carry-on, away from the edges and corners.
• Use clothing or other soft items to cushion the laptop further.
• Avoid placing heavy or rigid items directly on top of your laptop.
• Consider a carry-on bag with a dedicated, padded laptop compartment.
• Keep your laptop easily accessible for security screening.

Considerations for Transporting Sensitive or Valuable Electronic Devices

For travelers who need to transport particularly sensitive or valuable electronic devices, such as high-end laptops, tablets, or cameras, a more strategic approach is recommended. This involves not only how the device is packed but also the overall travel plan and awareness of potential risks. Careful planning can significantly mitigate potential issues.

Consideration	Details
Device Value	Assess the monetary and data value of the device. For extremely high-value items, consider specialized travel insurance.
Data Security	Ensure all sensitive data is backed up and encrypted. Consider password-protecting your device with a strong, unique password.
Device Condition	Perform a quick check of the device for any existing damage before travel to avoid disputes later.
Accessibility	Keep devices needed during transit easily accessible in your carry-on. This also simplifies airport security checks.
Power Needs	Pack necessary chargers and consider a portable power bank for extended travel or layovers.
Contingency Planning	Have a plan in case of damage or loss, including contact information for the airline, insurance provider, and device manufacturer.
Temperature Sensitivity	Avoid leaving devices in extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car or a freezing cargo hold. Carry them with you in the cabin.

Illustrative Scenarios and Best Practices

Let’s dive into some real-world examples and actionable advice to make sure your laptop travels safely, even when it’s tucked away in your checked luggage. Understanding how others have navigated this successfully, and what pitfalls to avoid, is key to peace of mind.We’ll look at a smooth journey, a cautionary tale, and then paint a picture of how to pack your tech like a pro.

We’ll also tap into the wisdom of seasoned travelers who’ve been there, done that, and probably packed their laptop in checked bags more times than they can count.

Successful Laptop Transport Scenario

Imagine Sarah, a digital nomad heading to an international conference. She’s meticulously prepared her laptop for checked baggage. First, she backed up all her critical data to the cloud. Then, she removed the battery as an extra precaution, although this is less common now with modern lithium-ion batteries and security screenings. She placed her laptop in its padded sleeve, then nestled it in the center of her suitcase, surrounded by soft clothing like sweaters and t-shirts on all sides.

She made sure the laptop wasn’t pressing against any hard edges of the suitcase. Her suitcase was a sturdy, hardshell model, offering good overall protection. Upon arrival, her laptop was perfectly fine, ready for use.

Laptop Damage Scenario in Checked Baggage

Contrast Sarah’s experience with Mark’s. Mark, rushing to catch a flight, shoved his laptop directly into his duffel bag without any padding. He placed it near the bottom, with heavy books and a pair of shoes on top. His bag was then tossed around during baggage handling. The impact from other bags, combined with the weight pressing down, caused a crack in his screen and damaged the hard drive.

The lack of cushioning and improper weight distribution were the primary culprits, turning a potentially minor incident into a costly repair.

Ideal Laptop Packing Arrangement

Picture this: your laptop, snugly encased in a high-quality, shock-absorbent sleeve. This sleeve should have ample padding, particularly on the corners. This padded laptop is then placed in the dead center of your checked suitcase. Imagine your suitcase as a protective shell. The space around the laptop should be filled with soft, compressible items.

Think rolled-up t-shirts, soft sweaters, or even a thick towel. These act as a buffer, absorbing shocks and preventing the laptop from shifting. Avoid placing anything heavy or sharp directly on top of or next to the laptop. If you have a particularly valuable or fragile laptop, consider a secondary layer of protection, like wrapping it in a soft scarf or a dedicated padded pouch, before placing it in its main sleeve.

The goal is to create a floating, protected core within your luggage.

Anecdotal Advice from Frequent Travelers

Many frequent flyers have developed their own tried-and-true methods. Here’s a summary of common advice:

• Prioritize Padding: Almost everyone emphasizes using a good padded sleeve as the absolute minimum. Some even double-bag with a second layer of bubble wrap or a soft fabric.
• Center of the Storm: The consensus is to place the laptop in the middle of the suitcase, away from the edges, where it’s most vulnerable to impacts.
• Soft Landings: Stuffing clothes around the laptop to create a cushioning effect is a universal recommendation. Think of it as creating a nest.
• Weight Distribution: Avoid placing heavy items directly on top of your laptop. Distribute weight evenly throughout the suitcase.
• Hardshell Advantage: Many prefer hardshell suitcases for their rigidity, offering better protection against crushing than soft-sided bags.
• Battery Caution (Historical): While less of an issue now, some older advice mentioned removing the battery. Modern security protocols and battery designs have made this less critical, but it’s a point some still consider.
• Power Down Completely: Ensure the laptop is fully shut down, not just in sleep mode, to prevent accidental activation and overheating.
• Label Clearly: While not a packing tip, some travelers label their bag as containing “fragile electronics” as a subtle reminder to baggage handlers.

Conclusion: Can You Check Laptops In Luggage

Ultimately, while the question “can you check laptops in luggage” might elicit a qualified yes, the real conversation revolves around the wisdom of doing so. By arming yourself with knowledge about regulations, employing robust protective measures, and understanding the inherent risks, you can make informed decisions that prioritize the safety and integrity of your valuable electronics, ensuring a smoother journey for both you and your digital life.

Key Questions Answered

Can I put my laptop in checked luggage if it has a lithium-ion battery?

Yes, you can generally check laptops with lithium-ion batteries, but they must remain inside the laptop. The batteries themselves, if removed and carried separately, must be in your carry-on baggage due to fire risk regulations. Always check with your specific airline for their most current policies.

What are the main risks of checking a laptop?

The primary risks include potential damage from rough handling, extreme temperature fluctuations in the cargo hold, and the possibility of theft. While airlines have procedures for handling baggage, the cargo hold environment is less controlled than the cabin.

How can I protect my laptop physically in checked luggage?

Use a padded laptop sleeve or a hardshell case designed for electronics. Place this within your suitcase, surrounded by soft items like clothing to absorb shock. Ensure the laptop is not in a position where heavy items can press directly on it.

What should I NOT pack with my laptop in checked luggage?

Avoid packing liquids, sharp objects, or anything that could potentially leak or puncture your laptop’s protective case. Also, do not pack your laptop charger or essential accessories that you might need immediately upon arrival, as these are best kept in your carry-on.

What if my laptop is damaged or stolen from checked luggage?

If your laptop is damaged, report it to the airline’s baggage claim desk before leaving the airport. For theft, file a police report and an insurance claim. Document any damage with photos. Keep all receipts and baggage tags as evidence.