The 10 Most Common Camp Packing Mistakes — and What to Do Instead
Luggage Forward Camp · Season 2026
A well-packed trunk travels better. The guidance below highlights the most common packing mistakes we see during camp season—and how to avoid them. Taking a few minutes to review this before pickup day helps ensure a smooth, stress-free experience from your doorstep to camp.
A Note on Prohibited Items
Including prohibited items in your shipment will void value protection coverage for those specific items only. Coverage for all other items remains fully in effect.
If you’re unsure whether something is permitted, please contact us before packing.
Common Packing Mistakes (and What to Do Instead)
1. Packing Aerosol Sprays & Items with Alcohol
The Issue
Aerosol products (bug spray, sunscreen spray, hairspray, dry shampoo) and items with alcohol (perfume, cologne, insect repellent, nail polish) are prohibited by carriers, as they are flammable and can pose a safety risk during transit.
Instead
Choose pump or lotion versions. Pack them sealed in a zip-lock bag for added protection.
2. Including Food or Snacks
The Issue
Food of any kind—even sealed, non-perishable items—is not permitted.
Instead
Send snacks via USPS or bring them in a car or carry-on. Keep trunks for clothing and gear only.
3. Packing Loose Lithium Batteries or Power Banks
The Issue
Loose lithium batteries and portable chargers cannot be shipped, as they are flammable and can pose a safety risk during transit.
Instead
Pack them in a carry-on or personal bag.
4. Overpacking Beyond the Weight Limit
The Issue
Exceeding weight limits may result in additional charges and handling issues.
Instead
Check your booking confirmation and leave a few pounds of buffer. Use a scale before pickup.
5. Leaving Liquids Unsealed
The Issue
Liquids can leak during transit, damaging other items.
Instead
Seal all liquids in zip-lock bags and consider wrapping them in a towel.
6. Including Cash, Gift Cards, or Valuables
The Issue
Valuables are not covered under value protection.
Instead
Keep them with you or send them separately using a secure, insured method.
7. Skipping Interior Labeling
The Issue
If the exterior label is lost, identifying the shipment becomes difficult.
Instead
Place the additional label inside the luggage.
8. Folding or Covering the Shipping Label
The Issue
Damaged or obstructed barcodes can cause delays or missed pickups.
Instead
Attach the label flat in the provided pouch on top of the trunk. Keep it fully visible.
9. Packing Irreplaceable or Sentimental Items
The Issue
Some items can’t be replaced, regardless of coverage.
Instead
Leave sentimental items at home. Use your trunk for essentials only.
10. Waiting Until Pickup Morning to Pack
The Issue
Last-minute packing leads to mistakes and missed details.
Instead
Pack 24–48 hours in advance and attach the label the night before pickup.
Value Protection
For added peace of mind, consider adding additional value protection to your booking. Coverage is available up to your declared value and can be selected at checkout.
If you include prohibited items, your guarantee will be void but your value protection is still in place for the rest of the shipment (although does not apply to the prohibited items)
We’ll Take It From Here
Once your trunk is packed and ready, our team will handle the rest.