Shipping Luggage or Checking Bags? The Smartest Ways To Get Your Stuff Home Safely

One of the most annoying and nerve-wracking parts of traveling is taking care of your luggage. Especially when you’re traveling back home. Because most of us will do some shopping — buying souvenirs, local food, or even luxury goods. Now, you have to worry about buying an additional suitcase and checking your luggage at the airport. And don’t get me started on how stuff can get damaged or even lost. Luckily, there is an alternative option — shipping your luggage directly to your home address. While shipping luggage isn’t a revolutionary travel hack, it definitely is something that can make your life easier. So let’s explore how to do it right.

Why shipping is easier

I have no idea who came up with the concept of shipping your luggage instead of checking it in the airport, but to whoever it was — you’re a genius! You don’t have to lug your heavy bags at a crowded airport and worry about your suitcase getting lost or damaged. Instead, you just contact a shipping service such as FedEx, UPS, and USPS, and arrange for your package to be picked up from your accommodation and delivered directly to your doorstep. 

And the best thing of all — it’s often even less expensive than checking in additional luggage. Let’s consider an example. Shipping a 50-pound suitcase from Los Angeles to New York via FedEx Ground could cost around $60, while a 50-pound suitcase shipped from Los Angeles to London could cost approximately $160 with FedEx International Economy. These prices are subject to change, so make sure you do your own research beforehand.

Comparing costs

Let’s take a closer look at the price comparisons and decide if it would be worth it to ship your luggage instead of checking it with the airline. You probably know that shipping services typically charge based on weight, dimensions, and distance. For shorter domestic trips, it may be more economical to check your bags with the airline, especially if they offer a free baggage allowance.

However, when it comes to international travel, shipping can be a game-changer. Airlines often have weight restrictions and additional fees for oversized or overweight bags. For example, checking a 50-pound suitcase from Los Angeles to London could cost around $200 with an airline like British Airways. By shipping your luggage in advance, you can avoid these restrictions, ensuring a stress-free journey and potentially saving money.

Shipping is often safer

One of the most important factors to consider is how safe your luggage will be with either one of these options. Checking bags with airlines can be nerve-wracking, as lost or damaged luggage is so common. Shipping your luggage provides you with more control over its whereabouts, and many shipping companies offer insurance options to protect your valuables. This added peace of mind can make a significant difference, especially when traveling with expensive or sentimental items.

Make sure the timing is right 

When it comes to sending luggage, timing is everything. Plan ahead of time and arrange your shipping to ensure your belongings arrive when you do. Take into account the transit time and any potential delays. It’s best to use a delivery provider that offers dependable tracking so you can keep tabs on your package at all times. FedEx Express, for example, offers international shipping with a 2-5 business day transit time, whereas FedEx Ground offers local shipping with a 1-5 business day transit time.