Is it worth getting your suitcase wrapped in plastic before a flight?

IS IT WORTH HAVING MY BAGS WRAPPED IN PLASTIC FILM?

Bag wrapping services are now common at international airports around the world.

For a fee of about $10-15 your checked baggage can be wrapped in several layers of clingy plastic film before you head for the check-in counter. The main motivation is security. If you have any reason to fear that your bag might be opened and belongings pilfered during transit, wrapping it in plastic provides an extra layer of protection.

However you're also saying "goods worth stealing inside". If they can get away with slicing the plastic wrap off in some quiet corner a thief might think it more worth their while to go for one wrapped in plastic than the cheap-looking, well-travelled one that isn't.

A wrapped bag that appears unwrapped when it plonks onto the baggage carousel is not necessarily a sure sign you've been done over. It could also be that security has opened the bag, but you're right to be alarmed.

Another motivation is to protect your luggage. Rough handling, weather during loading and liquid spills from other passengers' luggage all take their toll. Backpacks and other luggage with multiple straps can get caught up in the baggage handling mechanism, another reason to wrap.

Finally, local knowledge. Some airports are known for baggage pilferage. If you see plenty of locals having their bags wrapped it's a hint that you should consider doing the same.