After a flight lands, travelers often find themselves in a sea of similar suitcases circulating around the baggage carousel. While opting to travel only with a carry-on is ultimately the best way to avoid any luggage swapping mishaps, sometimes checking a bag is unavoidable. To avoid the baggage carousel guessing game (and the risk of someone else mistaking your bag for theirs), here are seven smart tips to make your checked luggage unmistakably yours.

Add a Luggage Belt

Luggage belts — those expandable nylon straps that wrap around the exterior of luggage — provide an extra layer of security, but can also be a stylish way to personalize your bag. Available in vibrant colors and patterns, they make your luggage instantly identifiable and are adjustable to fit any checked bag size. The brand Gorilla Grip offers a multipack of single-strap belts in various colors, while Samsonite offers a brightly colored version with a built-in TSA-approved lock, adding peace of mind and some flair.

Use Wheel Covers

Wheel covers are another clever way to add a splash of color to your luggage — for under $10. Made from silicone, they also reduce noise, resist wear and tear, and protect wheels. Most wheel covers come in a standard one-size-fits-all, but make sure to measure your suitcase wheels before purchasing.

Get a Personalized Luggage Cover

Dents and scratches in checked luggage are expected by frequent flyers. That’s why many turn to luggage covers, which provide protection, easy identification, and a layer of security. Samsonite’s luggage covers come in several playful designs and are machine washable. For a wider range of styles and sizes, Travelkin’s covers are functional and affordable, fitting suitcases measuring 18 inches through 32 inches. And for a more minimalist look, RainVillage offers several bold, single-color options.

Add Stickers and Patches

Luggage stickers are one of the most affordable (not to mention fun) methods of personalizing your luggage. Rimowa made stickers cool again with its sleek city-themed or monogram-style options to decorate the luxury luggage brand’s aluminum hard-shells. Bags from Away are also perfect canvases for stickers thanks to their sleek polycarbonate shells.

Not ready to commit to putting stickers directly on your luggage? Try a clear protective cover, like those from Explore Land. Whether you’re collecting stickers of national parks or international landmarks, you can decorate the cover without the risk of leaving sticky residue on your suitcase. (Tip: Look for waterproof and scratch-resistant stickers to ensure longevity.)

For soft-sided fabric luggage, opt for iron-on or sew-on fabric patches instead. This is a fun way to personalize your bag with patches of countries visited, vintage designs, embroidered initials, sports teams, or anything else that makes your bag “you.” 

Opt for Handle Covers 

Handle covers aren’t just for aesthetics — they add comfort, especially while hauling around a heavy checked bag. But instead of picking a neutral-colored handle wrap, opt for something bold to make your suitcase instantly recognizable at bag claim. Cosmos soft handle grips, for example, come in various bright colors, and there are even handle wrap options inspired by famous artists like Van Gogh. For a custom look, embroidery featuring your name or initials is also an option.

Use Luggage Tags

Luggage tags are another low-cost add-on to make your suitcase stand out. Choose one with a bright hue, fun pattern, or even your initials. For frequent flyers concerned about durability, personalized aluminum luggage tags come in neon shades and include space for your contact details. For a more playful design, brands like Catch On and Zouity offer fun shapes such as sea turtles, flowers, and fruit. (Tip: Some designs include slots for an Apple AirTag, helping you track your luggage in real time.)

Choose Standout Luggage

If accessorizing isn’t your thing, consider investing in luggage that stands out on its own. Bold colors, unique textures, and distinctive shapes make your bag easier to spot. 

For instance, Samsonite offers vibrant luggage options such as the Venue x Large Spinner in matcha green and the Voltage DLX Large Spinner in chili red. NOBL’s All-in-One Check-In luggage (with interior compression system) features a hot pink color option. And Calpak, known for its durability, offers the Hue Large Luggage, which comes in 10 colors. Keep an eye out for limited-edition designs and seasonal color drops from these brands to make your luggage even easier to spot at baggage claim.

Featured image credit: Bet_Noire/ iStock via Getty Images Plus 

Settling down by the sea is a dream for many people in retirement, and it can be surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. To find the best seaside destinations for retirees on a budget, we looked to U.S. News and World Report’s 2025 survey ranking 150 of the best cities for retirement based on the happiness of residents, housing affordability, tax rates, and health care quality. Of these top cities, we’ve narrowed down the 10 most affordable oceanfront cities to retire to in 2025 and 2026. Even if you’re not planning for retirement quite yet, these 10 destinations make for great budget-friendly coastal getaways.

10. Port St. Lucie, Florida

• Cost of living: 1.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $349,395
• Median rent: $1,290
• Percentage of population over 65: 22%

In Port St. Lucie, you don’t need to pay top dollar to retire on the Atlantic Coast. Despite being Florida’s sixth-most-populated city, Port St. Lucie is one of the Sunshine State’s more affordable places to reside. Living here comes at a fraction of the cost of cities like Miami or Naples, though it offers similar perks, such as great weather, no state income tax, and easy access to beaches, riverwalks, and nature preserves. The city’s subtropical climate makes year-round outdoor recreation possible, from enjoying coffee on a quiet beach to casting a line from your backyard fishing dock.

9. Jacksonville, Florida

• Cost of living: 4.3% lower than national average
• Median home value: $302,616
• Median rent: $1,241
• Percentage of population over 65: 15%

Jacksonville is a big city with a small-town feel. Florida’s largest city by both population (approximately 986,000 residents) and land area offers diverse neighborhoods spread across 874 square miles, from historic homes on the St. Johns River to quiet beachside bungalows. Jacksonville’s blend of coastal and urban living appeals to retirees looking for variety, with downtown entertainment venues, coastal walking trails, and scenic golf courses all within easy reach. The city also provides top-rated health care, including the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville.

8. Melbourne, Florida

• Cost of living: 4.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $310,404
• Median rent: $1,261
• Percentage of population over 65: 23%

Located on Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne beckons retirees with sunny skies and warm weather year-round. It’s less crowded than other South Florida hot spots, creating a more laid-back atmosphere. Plus, there are many 55-plus communities, often with lower-than-average HOA fees. 

Residents can enjoy watching rocket launches from Cape Canaveral, paddling along the Indian River, and spending time on the golf course. Melbourne’s proximity to Orlando (60 to 90 minutes by car) is also convenient for accessing big-city attractions, an international airport, and top-notch medical care.

7. Daytona Beach, Florida

• Cost of living: 5.1% lower than national average
• Median home value: $301,815
• Median rent: $1,203
• Percentage of population over 65: 20%

Clearly, the Sunshine State has plenty of budget-friendly options for retirees. Daytona Beach is another one of the most affordable coastal cities in Florida, offering condos and homes with ocean views at prices much lower than other oceanfront areas around the country. Although the city boasts plenty of quiet suburbs and condo communities, things liven up every February as tourists flock here for the Daytona 500 NASCAR race at the namesake speedway. 

With boardwalk entertainment, free summer concerts, and easy access to golf, tennis, and walking trails, this city inspires active lifestyles without being overwhelming, making it ideal for those who want relaxation and recreation.

6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Cost of living: 9.6% lower than national average
• Median home value: $347,457
• Median rent: $990
• Percentage of population over 65: 24%

If you’re seeking an alternative retirement destination to Florida, Myrtle Beach boasts a low cost of living and a quiet, less touristy feel in the offseason. With a mild climate and access to quality health care, Myrtle Beach is especially popular with retirees from the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. 

Situated on the “Grand Strand” on the Atlantic coastline, an area that boasts more than 90 golf courses, Myrtle Beach is also a golfer’s paradise. The low-cost beach lifestyle is made even more affordable thanks to South Carolina’s tax benefits for retirees, including no tax on Social Security benefits and retirement income deductions.

5. Savannah, Georgia

• Cost of living: 9.8% lower than national average
• Median home value: $272,339
• Median rent: $1,105
• Percentage of population over 65: 15%

Savannah, a charming coastal city in southeastern Georgia, is known for its oak tree-lined streets and quaint historic district. It boasts lower housing costs than many cities in Florida and the Carolinas, while still offering coastal amenities and a laid-back lifestyle. 

While there aren’t high-rise beach condos here, retirees looking for quiet, historic homes along the rivers and marshes will find plenty of options. Many are a short drive from popular beaches such as Tybee Island. Savannah also has a thriving cultural scene, thanks in part to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), with plenty of galleries, festivals, theater, and concerts to enjoy.

4. Pensacola, Florida

• Cost of living: 11% lower than national average
• Median home value: $296,312
• Median rent: $1,013
• Percentage of population over 65: 21%

Pensacola blends history, nature, and small-town charm on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The historic downtown district is a lively area home to boutique shops, museums, art galleries, dining, and free community events. With strong Veterans Affairs (VA) services and a significant military retiree population, it’s also an excellent choice for veterans.  Across the Pensacola Bay is Pensacola Beach, known for its white sand and unbeatable sunsets.

3. Mobile, Alabama

• Cost of living: 15.9% lower than national average
• Median home value: $177,707
• Median rent: $745
• Percentage of population over 65: 17%

Mobile is one of the most affordable destinations in the Gulf Coast region, allowing retirees to live near the water on a modest budget. Home prices and property taxes are well below the national average, and there are plenty of historic homes situated along oak-lined streets. 

Although the city is not located directly on the Gulf Coast, Mobile’s location on Mobile Bay is ideal for boating, with numerous marinas located south of the city. Mobile also boasts a lively local culture, with year-round festivals and fewer tourists than cities like New Orleans. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Dauphin Island, allowing for quick trips to the Gulf beaches.

2. Corpus Christi, Texas

• Cost of living: 16.5% lower than national average
• Median home value: $202,525
• Median rent: $967
• Percentage of population over 65: 16%

Thanks to its affordable location on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is home to a growing community of full-time retirees and part-time snowbirds. Texas does not have state income tax, allowing retirees to stretch their dollars further. It’s one of the most affordable waterfront cities in the country, particularly when it comes to groceries, services, and insurance. With its proximity to scenic spots like Padre Island and Mustang Island, retirees can enjoy nature and quiet beaches year-round.

1. Gulfport, Mississippi

• Cost of living: 17.4% lower than national average
• Median home value: $188,052
• Median rent: $797
• Percentage of population over 65: 16%

Gulfport stands out as one of the best seaside destinations for a comfortable and affordable retirement. It’s located under two hours by car from New Orleans on the Mississippi Sound, an area known for its calm waters and white-sand beaches. Boating, fishing, and other coastal activities are part of daily life here.

Gulfport’s residents have convenient access to world-class entertainment and specialized medical care. Nearby Biloxi also offers a cruise port, casinos, and lively nightlife. Although Gulfport is Mississippi’s second-largest city, its small-town feel provides a welcoming vibe of community for retirees.

To meet the TSA’s strict liquid rules for carry-on luggage, many travelers stock up on travel-size toiletries at the drugstore before flying. However, doing so comes with its own set of considerations. Not only are those small plastic bottles wasteful, but the cost can add up, especially if you travel frequently. Here are a few clever alternatives to save money on toiletries before your next vacation.

Purchase Refillable Bottles

The best method to cut down on waste and save money in the long run is a simple one: Buy a set of refillable containers. Travelers can choose from a variety of TSA-approved options such as silicone bottles or squeezable pouches. These containers easily fit into your bag without taking up much space, and they eliminate unnecessary waste. A set typically costs around $5 to $10, so you’ll be saving money in just a few trips. When you return, simply rinse and clean them out and stow them away until your next journey.

Fill Tiny Baggies

No refillable bottles? No problem. Small plastic bags or containers can be an excellent alternative in a pinch, so long as they have a tight seal to prevent potential leakage. Consider pill bags or even contact lens cases, both of which usually measure well below the TSA liquid limit of 3.4 ounces, and can serve as makeshift toiletry dispensers when you don’t have other options. Before your trip, be sure to label each bag or case with its contents, such as toothpaste or sunscreen, and pack them in a place where they are less likely to leak.

Use What the Hotel Provides

When you book a hotel room, a variety of amenities are included in the price. This includes shampoo, body wash, hand soap, and other basic toiletries. This isn’t to say that every toiletry will be taken care of, but if you aren’t picky about hair products, soap, and lotion, you can simply take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary offerings to free up valuable space in your luggage — and avoid the cost of purchasing travel-size toiletries. Plus, if the hotel still offers single-use containers, you can also take the bottles home and reuse them on another trip. (Pro tip: Many hotels also offer amenity kits if you ask the front desk, with additional items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, lotion, and even socks free of charge.)

Stock Up at the Dentist

Nobody likes visiting the dentist, but at least you can save some money on toiletries for your next vacation by grabbing a few of those complimentary tubes of toothpaste on the way out. Most dentist offices provide floss, toothbrushes, and toothpaste samples at the end of each visit — not only are they usually free, but the smaller sample sizes are perfect for tossing into your carry-on and still meeting TSA liquid regulations.

Swap Liquids for Solids

These days, many toiletries also come in solid forms — think shampoo and conditioner bars (like those from Kitsch), powdered mouthwash packets (MySmile), and sunscreen sticks (Blue Lizard). These items are TSA-approved, and because they’re solid, you don’t have to worry about liquid restrictions in your carry-on. Plus, solid versions often last longer because they are more concentrated than liquid toiletries, which will end up saving you money in the long run. For instance, a solid shampoo bar can last for over 80 washes.

Picture this scenario: Your plane is at the gate, but boarding has yet to commence. The crew is on board and the cabin is being prepared — but what, exactly, does that entail, and why does it sometimes seem to take so long? Delve into what actually happens during what’s known as a turnaround, or the time a plane spends on the ground between flights. 

Why Pilots Walk Around the Aircraft

An aircraft’s flight crew has a responsibility to ensure that the plane is functioning as it should and that it is safe to fly. To do this, pilots and first officers carry out a host of preflight checks. You may have seen this happening in the flight deck as you board, but an exterior walk-through needs to happen, too. The pilot (or co-pilot) will walk around the aircraft, looking for visual evidence of leaks, corrosion, dents, or foreign bodies, as well as checking the condition of the engines and noting anything that seems unusual. Once all the fuel, passengers, bags, and cargo have been loaded, all flight controls are confirmed as working correctly, and the weather and flight plan have been signed off on, the plane can get on its way.  

How Flight Attendants Prepare the Cabin

The role of flight attendants is to ensure passengers remain safe at all times during the flight. Before passengers board, flight attendants thoroughly inspect the cabin, including overhead bins, seat pockets, lavatories, and underneath seats. Once these security checks are complete, flight attendants continue with other safety-related items, making sure these are where they should be and in full working order. This includes looking to see that the life vests are stowed for each seat, checking that first-aid kits are complete, and making sure that smoke detectors, the PA system, and emergency lighting are all functioning correctly. Finally, they’ll stock the galley and begin welcoming passengers on board.

What Happens When the Cabin Is Cleaned?

Between flights, the cabin of an aircraft undergoes cleaning, but how involved the process is depends on the type of flight. Between long-haul flights, the plane is typically on the ground for several hours, giving cleaning crews ample time to freshen up the space and ensure it is clean and tidy for the next set of passengers. Blankets and pillows are replaced, trash is removed from the plane, carpets are vacuumed, and hard surfaces such as tray tables are wiped down. The lavatories and galleys are also disinfected and sanitized. 

Between short-haul flights, especially those operated by low-cost airlines, the turnaround times are much shorter — sometimes as little as 25 minutes. Often, this means that cabin crew members instead of a dedicated cleaning crew will collect trash prior to boarding and try to minimize the amount of work required while the plane is on the ground, thus avoiding unwanted delays and keeping costs low.

Loading Luggage and Cargo

Proper weight distribution is one of the most important things to consider when loading cargo of any kind, including passengers’ bags, onto a plane. While load planners know the exact weight of freight containers, loose items (such as suitcases) are loaded with an assumption about average weight — such estimates vary according to whether the flight is domestic or international, for instance. Nets keep the bags in place so that the plane’s center of gravity isn’t affected. In addition, for security reasons, it’s standard practice that only accompanied baggage is permitted, which is why, if a passenger doesn’t show up for the flight, it can be necessary to offload their hold luggage prior to takeoff. 

Getting Food on Board

Before they are loaded on an aircraft, in-flight meals are prepared off-site in dedicated flight kitchens. These kitchens have strict hygiene policies and quality control measures. Hot food, for example, is thoroughly cooled before it is ready to leave and reheated through in the galley once in the air. Service carts loaded with meals are transported in catering trucks to the plane, where they replace those used on the previous flight. While passengers typically board from the left side of the plane, the doors on the opposite side are used to load catering required for the journey. Hydraulics lift the unit up to the level of the door so that carts can be easily transferred to the plane before departure.

Luggage mishaps — broken wheels, bent handles, busted zippers — are all too common in airport terminals. But while ordinary travelers wrestle with worn-out bags, pilots and flight crews seem to glide through airports with ease. Their secret? Durable, no-nonsense luggage designed to survive the rigors of frequent air travel. While they often come at a higher price tag, they’re built to last — and yes, you can buy them, too.

Travelpro Luggage

In 1987, pilot Robert Plath invented the first upright, wheeled luggage with a telescoping handle to make travel easier for pilots and flight crews, forever changing the luggage game. Today, Travelpro, the company he founded, offers over a dozen variations of the original Rollaboard, including backpacks, garment bags, and the classic wheeled carry-on.

Travelpro, renowned for its durability and timeless design, is trusted by crews from over 90 airlines around the world, according to the company’s website. Many pilots favor the FlightCrew Professional Collection, but it’s not just for crew — it’s a favorite among avid travelers, too. All Travelpro luggage features the brand’s patented Precision Glide system, with 360-degree magnetic spinner wheels and an airline-grade aluminum handle for smooth maneuverability.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley is known for its thoughtful designs and modern features. One standout is the brand’s CX expansion feature, a luggage compression system designed for fitting carry-on luggage into tight overhead bins. Another signature feature is the “outsider handle,” mounted on the exterior of the bag to create a flat interior packing space with no bumps or bars.

The brand’s Aircrew Essentials line is designed with flight crews in mind, but is also available to everyday travelers. The line offers a range of carry-on expandable spinners, including the popular Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner, which fits the carry-on size requirements for most U.S. airlines. Backed by a lifetime guarantee that covers repairs or replacements, Briggs & Riley is often a top choice for flight crews for both design and durability. 

LuggageWorks

Instead of bold colors or trendy designs, the luggage favored by flight crews tends to focus on function and durability, with useful compartments, expansion options, and sturdy handles. That’s certainly true of LuggageWorks, a crew luggage staple since 1989.

You’ll often see airline pilots carrying luggage from the brand’s Stealth Series. With strong aluminum frames, stainless steel handles, and ballistic nylon fabric shells, bags in this line are designed to last for over a decade. LuggageWorks also offers other collections, such as the sleek Aurora Series and the ultra-lightweight Carbon Series, plus custom monogramming, three-year warranties, and an in-house repair department.

Brightline Bags

BrightLine Bags is another go-to choice among pilots and flight crews seeking a customizable carry-on bag. The brand’s FLEX System is a modular design that lets users build their own bag by attaching or detaching zippered compartments based on the needs of each trip. It’s essentially multiple bags in one.

The B18 HANGAR Modular Gear Bag was originally designed as an overnight flight bag for aviators. This set can be configured into eight different bag combinations using the included modules, with even more options available by adding extra components. With special modules for cameras, drones, and other travel equipment, BrightLine’s modular system offers impressive versatility for carry-on bags. 

StrongBags

Southwest Airlines pilot Ethan Fisher created StrongBags when he kept finding that his travel gear wasn’t up to his rigorous travel schedule. Customers are encouraged to take StrongBags on the road to see if they meet their needs with the company’s 30-day risk-free guarantee. While the brand offers exclusive discounts to airline employees, its gear is available to all travelers.

StrongBags roller luggage is available in multiple sizes, ranging from compact 20-inch carry-ons to spacious 25-inch checked bags. The popular Vortex Voyager 22 Flight Crew Roller Luggage is built to withstand even the most demanding flight schedules. Its exterior fabric is made from Cordura Ballistic Nylon, initially developed for military body armor. Other key features include smooth-gliding wheels, stainless steel zippers, and optional custom embroidery. The brand’s carry-on cooler bags — designed to stay cold for up to 48 hours — are also popular with pilots and flight crew.

Featured image credit: Svitlana Hulko/ iStock via Getty Images Plus