Checking a Backpack

[intreker05]

Hey everyone,
I'm going to London for six weeks this summer for a summer session abroad then, when the program ends, I'll be taking a two week trip to Belgium and Germany. I'm going to have to check my backpack at the airport and I'm worried about all the straps getting caught. Now, I've heard that if I buy a larger stuff sack or a mesh bag that I can put my backpack in there and that way the straps don't get caught. Can I still do that with modern security measures. Please let me know what you've done with yours in the past. I'd hate to get there and have my bag destroyed because a strap got caught. Thanks.

[pointofnoreturn]

At some airports, they may give you a complementary plastic bag for you to put your backpack in. Other airports, they will tie down the straps for you or ask you to do it yourself. I know that at certain airports (i.e. Athens), they will not take your backpack at check-in. Instead they will direct you to a special check-point where large/uneven or oversized baggage need to be checked in.

Either way, you will be fine as long as you secure your bag properly

[intreker05]

OK, so should I even worry about getting a stuff sack for it or should I just in case. I've always traveled in the US with suitcases so I don't know what they do here.

[pointofnoreturn]

I've never travelled with a backpack but my travelling partner often does. I've seen lots of backpacks at airport and it's usually secured at the check-in counter with the help of the check-in person. I don't think you have anything to worry about. Just make sure you don't put in any valuables and if you can, twist-ties or small locks would add on extra security that you might feel comfortable with.