Skiing the U.S. this Winter? Do You Know the Luggage Rules?

If your ski tips are aiming for the pistes of North America this season you might be wondering about the luggage requirements. We would definitely recommend that you do your homework and make sure you know the current rules before leaving home. For a quote for your skiing or snowboarding cover click on www.travel-insurance.net. Also check out our Travel Guides section for information on Ski Resorts in the U.S. and worldwide www.travel-insurance.net/ski-insurance/usa.

The U.S. authorities aren’t crazy about you locking your checked luggage. If they don’t like the look of your bag and decide to search it they will probably break the lock. Our best advice would be to travel with a suitcase or bag that does not have a built-in lock – otherwise the case will be ruined. If possible, buy one of the locks which are approved by the authorities and can be opened without doing any damage to your luggage. Other than that, use bags which lock with a separate travel padlock. For more information on the Transportation Security Administration rules for the U.S. visit:  tsa.gov  (follow links ‘For Travellers’ and note the 3-1-1 rules re packing liquids). The special locks which the TSA have a master key to open are available at some quality department stores, airports or online. However, we’ve also seen reports that the U.S. authorities have been known to break the TSA-approved locks as well! Check with your travel agent and all available sources for the latest updates.

A lot of people are tired of dealing with check-in queues and hauling heavy luggage around the world. Many are opting to have their luggage delivered to their destination and hotel prior to arrival. This sounds an excellent idea, especially if you are taking ski equipment. It also means you can take advantage of online check-in and avoid those long queues. Don’t forget the hand-luggage rules regarding liquids and sharp items, however, as you will no longer have the option to re-pack offending items into checked luggage. Although we cannot personally endorse any of them, there are several luggage shipping companies offering this type of service if you search online. Let us know how it works out if you opt to do this or have any previous experience of doing so.