What will I not put in checked luggage? Pretty simple. Three categories:
- Anything valuable that's a high risk of theft. Computers, cell phone, cameras, cash, credit cards, jewelry.
- Anything I need while in transit. Computers, cell phone, identification, copies of travel tickets, medicines.
- Anything that would impair my trip if it were delayed a day or two. In addition to the items above I like to pack at least two days of fresh clothes in my hand luggage. That way if my checked bag is delayed I can function normally for a while and not have to rush out to a clothing store right away to buy replacements.