Are you traveling with pricey glassware? There could be possibilities that it may break and be mishandled. Right? You may even be carrying food which may go bad if not preserved well. That’s why United Airlines recommends travelers to bring fragile, and valuable items in carry-ons, or as a personal item, whatever suits you the best. These items are a part of your carry-on or checked allowance, and might incur fees. Let us take a look into United Airlines’ Fragile items’ policy for a better understanding.
What Can Be Characterised As Fragile or Valuable Items?
Fragile or valuable items are classified as objects which are checked in cardboard boxes, plastic bags or paper. Items made out of paper, and those which are irreplaceable also fall in this list. Some of the valuable, and fragile items include:
- Antiques, heirlooms, and artifacts
- Art pieces
- Ceramics, pottery, glass, and Chinaware
- Photographic equipment like camera
- Collectibles
- Computer software, and hardware
- Electronics
- Plants and flowers
- Vision devices such as contacts, and glasses
- Jewelry
- Perishable Items
- Watches
- Keys
- Liquids like perfume
- Money, gift cards, gift certificates
- Stones and precious metals
- Real fur
- Religious items
- Knives., silverware, swords
- Backpacks, and sleeping bags
- Items such as blueprints, manuscripts, books, photos, and maps
- Items that have been checked in plastic bags or paper which do not securely close or provide any protection of the contents within
It is to be noted that when you check any fragile or valuable items for domestic flights within the United States, then in such cases United Airlines doesn’t hold any liability of loss, damage or delay of any kind. When it comes to international flights United Airlines’ liability for damage, delay or loss is limited.
Also Read: United Airlines Baggage Policy
Tips for Travelers Regarding Carrying Fragile Items On United Airlines Flights
Fragile items are susceptible to easy damage even when you pack inside a suitcase. United Airlines has some tips for all its travelers to ensure the safety of the items they are carrying.
- Place the items at the centre of the bag to ensure complete protection.
- Wrap them securely using bubble wraps, or even your clothes.
- If you find the items to be small, in such cases you could keep them within a shoe so that they may remain protected.
Conclusion
When you have delicate or precious items with you onboard, it is always important to follow all the rules to the tee so that you may save your items from being spoiled or damaged. Pack them well, follow all the rules for carriage, and things will be absolutely sorted. If you have any query regarding carrying fragile items in a United Airlines flight, you may contact their respective customer service at length.
FAQs
Yes, fragile items are permissible on flights, however, it is always recommended that you carry them in the carry-on luggage. The reason is that checked baggage may be subjected to rough handling which could cause the fragile items to break or get damaged. Even if you put the fragile sticker on your checked bag, it won’t do much good.
The tips are for carrying fragile items on any flight as a matter of fact and not just United Airlines. When wrapping fragile items like ceramics or glassware, use soft clothing like scarves, cotton t-shirts, etc. You may even use bubble wrap for packing, and try placing the fragile items at the centre to prevent damage of any kind.
It is always recommended against placing fragile or valuable items in checked bags as this puts them at a risk of being mishandled and getting damage quite easily.
