71% of Travelers Now Avoid Checking Bags as Growing Rebellion Against the Airport Experience Continues, New LugLess Survey Reveals
'Travelers are paying more and getting more. That is, more delays, more stress and more lost bags, which taints the airport experience,' said Audrey Kohout, co-CEO of LugLess.
Taking insights from 1,019 U.S. consumers, ages 18 to 65+, the survey found that despite economic concerns and rising costs, most Americans are still planning to fly, but they're increasingly unhappy with what air travel has become.
Airport anxiety is on the rise, even as travel demand remains high
Despite inflation and recession fears, only 11% of Americans plan to fly less this year. Of those scaling back, cost (55%) and aircraft safety (29%) are the top concerns. However, the majority are still traveling — just with more stress than ever.
The worst parts of the airport experience, according to travelers:
46% constantly fear their flight will be delayed or canceled
46% say the overall airport process takes too long
32% dislike the crowding and fear getting sick
Unsurprisingly, 71% of travelers now avoid checking bags entirely, citing cost (36% find it too expensive) and convenience. In fact, 34% wear extra layers of clothing to avoid paying checked bag fees. When a larger suitcase is unavoidable, 59% say they'd be willing to spend $100-$200 on a luggage shipping service to reduce airport hassle.
Regarding when travelers arrive at the airport, most follow the two-hour rule, while 28% arrive within an hour of boarding. This risky behavior is likely in light of little repercussion, with only 24% missing a flight. However, many (43%) are repeat offenders, having missed two to three flights due to traffic (36%), medical emergencies (32%) and oversleeping (29%).
TSA troubles and travel faux pas are making things worse
While 35% of respondents face stress throughout the travel journey, the TSA experience is particularly draining. Thirty percent fear their expensive items will get thrown out by security, with 35% confirming TSA agents have tossed their items. Respondents' other TSA fears include being flagged for an extra screening (27%) and extra luggage searches in front of others (16%).
One reason travelers may shy away from extra luggage searches is due to what's in their carry-on, with 22% having had embarrassing personal items pulled from their bag. In particular, travelers admit to carrying everything from ashes of loved ones (11%) to sex toys (10%) to drug-related paraphernalia (10%) in their bags.
Once on the plane, frustrations continue. Travelers' top pet peeves include:
Talking loudly: 64%
Playing music or videos without headphones: 57%
Eating pungent foods: 54%
Removing shoes: 46%
Hogging both armrests: 46%
Frequent bathroom trips: 25%
Trends that may impact the summer travel season ahead
Summer remains the peak travel season, with 46% of respondents planning trips between June and September. Influenced by shows like The White Lotus, 78% of fans say they've planned or want to plan a trip based on the show's filming locations, including Hawaii (61%), Italy (50%) and Thailand (38%).
However, many people still haven't adopted tools that could reduce friction when trip planning or traveling. Sixty-nine percent of respondents aren't using Apple AirTags, despite 94% agreeing it's a smart solution for tracking bags. And even with all the hype surrounding AI agents within tech circles, general America isn't fully on board with using it for easier travel booking, with only 38% of travelers interested in AI travel agents. However, those who are curious about AI agents want help with:
Booking flights, hotels and transportation (68%)
Researching and building an itinerary (57%)
Finding restaurants based on preferences (44%)
Finally, while skiplagging — purchasing a connecting flight itinerary with the intention of only taking the first leg of the route — hit mainstream news over the past few months, 76% of travelers have confirmed they haven't participated in the trend. But most respondents (43%) said they'd consider it if it saved them money.
'Travelers are paying more and getting more. That is, more delays, more stress and more lost bags, which taints the airport experience,' said Audrey Kohout, co-CEO of LugLess. 'The survey results reinforce what LugLess has long known: Travelers want convenience, control and calm — not chaos. We're helping lead that shift by removing one of the biggest headaches from the travel equation: checked bags. By helping travelers simplify their trips without breaking the bank, LugLess is making the airport experience feel like the start of a vacation — not a hurdle to overcome.'
To learn more about LugLess, please visit https://www.lugless.com/.
Methodology
The Propeller Insights survey commissioned by LugLess surveyed 1,019 U.S. citizens, ages 18 and over, across the U.S. in February 2025. Survey responses were representative of the U.S. population for age, gender, region and ethnicity. The maximum margin of sampling error was +/- 3.0 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence.
About LugLess
LugLess was created to bypass the inefficient, outdated and broken process of checking luggage. Our technology leverages existing logistics networks to make shipping luggage easier and cheaper than checking a bag.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
2 hours ago
- Forbes
What It Means To Be Wealthy In Panama
Casco Viejo in Panama City, Panama, offers an affordable lifestyle, accessible visa options, and plenty of charm. getty Looking to explore a tropical paradise with a rich history and vibrant culture? Panama is currently one of the five trending places that Americans are seeking out to start a new life overseas. But what does it means to be wealthy in Panama? What are the average earnings and net worth, and what would the cost of living and visa opportunities be for expats? Settled by the Spanish in the 16th century, the country joined Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador in a union, and then later signed a treaty with the U.S. to gain independence by building a canal. But as Lonely Planet says, "Panama is so much more than a window into the canal." It is rainforests, skyscrapers, colonial buildings, tropical seas, plus it really is the link between two oceans and two continents. In 2023, Panama's national gross income per capita was $17,870 as per Statista, whereas in comparison, the average household net-adjusted disposable income per capita in the U.S. is $51,147, making the income gap between the two countries significant. This figure corresponds to data from CEIC that places monthly earnings in Panama in August 2023 at $1,288. Panama is known for its affordability, especially when compared to the U.S., where, according to Numbeo, the cost for a single person per month, not including rent, is as follows: Switzerland: $1,659 France: $1,200 U.S.: $1,166 Germany: $1,139 Ireland: $1,112 U.K.: $1,095 Australia: $1,050 Canada: $1023 New Zealand: $1,012 Japan: $927 Italy: $905 Latvia: $874 Greece: $832 Panama : $800 : $800 Malta: $801 Spain: $731 Thailand: $650 Mexico: $637 Portugal: $592 Philippines: $573 Brazil: $466 According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Panama is approximately 50% lower than in France or in the U.S., excluding rent. For example, a single person's monthly expenses (excluding rent) average around $800 in Panama, compared to $1,166 in the U.S. Rent in Panama is also significantly cheaper. A one-bedroom apartment in Panama City's city center costs around $800 per month, while in the U.S., rent is 80% more expensive, on average. Groceries and dining out are also more affordable in Panama. Utilities, transportation, and healthcare are other areas where Panama shines in terms of affordability. Public transportation is widely available and costs a fraction of what it does in the U.S.. At the same time, healthcare is both high-quality and affordable, making Panama a popular destination for medical tourism. Being Wealthy In Panama—The Top 1% And Average Net Worth In Panama, the richest 20% of the population hold just over 50% of the income, as per Statista. And in 2021, the richest 1% held just under 20% of the income. In Panama, the average asset wealth per capita in 2024 was $33,571. In the World Economics Inequality rating, Panama rates a D, out of a possible A-E, with E being the worst a country can be for wealth inequality, meaning much of the national income is in the hands of the few. In comparison, the U.S. rates a C-rating. Being Wealthy In Panama—Getting A Golden Visa Or A Digital Nomad Visa Panama offers several visa options for expats of all ages and in all life circumstances. The Friendly Nations Visa is ideal for people who want to invest in Panama in exchange for residency. Citizens of over 50 countries, including the U.S., can apply by either establishing a business, securing employment, or making a real estate investment of at least $200,000. Panama's Digital Nomad visa allows Americans to live and work in the country for 9 months with the option to renew once. Applicants must prove an income of at least $3,000 per month and work for a company outside of Panama. Additionally, Panama's Pensionado Program is, globally, one of the most attractive retirement visas. Retirees who can prove a monthly pension income of at least $1,000 are eligible for permanent residency and enjoy numerous benefits, including discounts on healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. Being wealthy in Panama is about more than just financial stability—it's about enjoying a high quality of life in a country that offers natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences. With its affordable cost of living, competitive salaries, and welcoming visa programs, the country is an ideal destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes 5 Trending Retirement And Golden Visa Destinations For Americans By Alex Ledsom Forbes Here's How Retirement Visas For U.S. Expats Compare, Based On New Data By Alex Ledsom Forbes The Prettiest Village In France, Voted By The French—In Pictures By Alex Ledsom
Business Wire
4 hours ago
- Business Wire
Thrust Flight Launches Phoenix Flight School Amid Soaring Demand for Airline Pilots
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Thrust Flight, a premier U.S. aviation training partner known for its Zero Time to Airline® program, officially opened its newest flight school at Falcon Field Airport in Mesa, Arizona, responding to a surge in demand for professional pilots across the Southwest. Marking its fourth location and first outside of Texas, Thrust Flight is expanding its proven model of accelerated, professional pilot training into one of the most aviation-friendly regions in the country. Classes are enrolling now, with the first cohort beginning August 25. 'Opening a campus in the Phoenix area allows us to continue to address the aviation industry's growing demand for qualified pilots,' said Patrick Arnzen, CEO and Founder of Thrust Flight. 'Our goal is to empower students to launch long-term aviation careers without wasting time or resources. With expanding Thrust Flight into Arizona, we're strategically positioned to develop the next generation of pilots and meet critical industry needs.' A Faster Path to the Cockpit Thrust Flight Phoenix offers the full Zero Time to Airline® curriculum, an accelerated FAA-approved Part 141 training program, designed to take students from no flight experience to certified flight instructors in as little as nine months. With additional time spent instructing, graduates can meet airline hiring minimums in just over a year. Unlike traditional programs, Thrust Flight students benefit from Examining Authority, allowing for the bypass of lengthy wait times, potentially shaving up to 18 weeks off training. First attempt exam and checkride fees are included in tuition, and full financing is available, offering students a more streamlined and transparent training path. 'Thrust Flight's program was designed with real people in mind, like mid-career transitioners, college alternatives and those who can't afford to sit on long waitlists,' said Arnzen. 'We give our students structure, support and clear expectations so they can succeed in not just training, but also throughout their fulfilling aviation careers.' Premium Experience, Launchpad for Careers Students at the Mesa campus will train on a fleet of Piper Archer TX aircraft, equipped with Garmin G1000 avionic and air conditioning – a critical necessity for Arizona heat. Multi-engine students will fly with Thrust Flight's Piper Seminole aircraft, providing preparation for similar aircraft used by regional airlines. Beyond the fleet, the facility offers comfortable classrooms, briefing rooms and access to unmatched mentorship. Students also benefit from Thrust Flight's career partnerships with major regional airlines, including SkyWest Airlines, Envoy Air, Republic Airways, Spirit Airlines, Air Wisconsin and Avelo Airlines, offering a competitive edge when applying for airline roles. Thrust Flight's Growing National Footprint With established campuses in Addison, Conroe and Denison, Texas, and now Mesa, Arizona, Thrust Flight is rapidly solidifying its position as a premier destination for aspiring aviation professionals. This latest expansion builds on the momentum of two recent program launches: a new Aircraft & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic School in Conroe and FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher courses in both Addison and Denison. 'Our recent developments are just the beginning,' said Arnzen. 'At Thrust Flight we're building more than just a flight school; we're building an aviation training network that meets students where they are and takes them to where they want to go. We will continue to grow, innovate and shape the aviation industry, ensuring we meet the evolving demands of tomorrow's pilots and airlines.' About Thrust Flight Thrust Flight is a nationally recognized aviation training provider with locations across Texas. Over the past 15 years, the company has trained thousands of pilots through its flagship Zero Time to Airline® program, preparing them to fly for commercial airlines around the globe. Today, Thrust Flight offers a full suite of FAA-approved programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and flight dispatchers, supporting every stage of the aviation career journey. Learn more at and
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
You Won't Need an ID Anymore Under TSA's New Pilot Program at 14 Airports
Forgot your driver's license of passport but trying to travel at an airport? You might soon be able to choose facial recognition identification instead. The Transportation Security Administration has pioneered a pilot facial recognition identification program, and four major airlines have now joined it. They are Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and American Airlines, according to Aviation Week. TSA Has Rolled Out the Pilot Program in Summer 2025 at 14 Airports According to Aviation Week, the pilot program is occurring for the first time this summer at 14 airports. Passengers must have an "active profile" with the airline they are flying with to participate. Passengers also "must already be members of TSA's trusted traveler PreCheck program and upload valid passport information to an airline profile," Aviation Week reported. If they do so, they don't need to have an ID in hand to get through security if they pass the facial comparison technology. The latest airport to join the TSA's "PreCheck Touchless ID program" is Denver International Airport, which "opened two security screening lanes in which eligible passengers can move through checkpoints using biometric facial recognition as their sole form of identification," the publication noted. "Identity verification is foundational to the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) risk-based approach to transportation security by verifying each traveler receives the appropriate level of risk-based screening," TSA explains. "TSA strives to enhance security effectiveness and improve operational efficiency, while creating an enhanced traveler experience and strengthening privacy." TSA "introduced facial comparison technology into the screening process at select airports. The facial comparison technology represents a significant security enhancement and improves traveler convenience," TSA added. "A traveler may voluntarily agree to use their face to verify their identity during the screening process by presenting their physical identification or passport," the agency noted. "The facial comparison technology TSA uses helps ensure the person standing at the checkpoint is the same person pictured on the identification document (ID) credential. Photos are not stored or saved after a positive ID match has been made, except in a limited testing environment for evaluation of the effectiveness of the technology." Added TSA: "TSA is grounding its exploration of facial comparison solutions in rigorous scientific study and analysis to include alignment with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards and applies stringent safeguards for traveler privacy and convenience" The agency noted: "TSA is currently updating CAT-2 screens with clear language that notifies travelers they may decline having their photo taken. TSA also has signage posted at the checkpoint indicating that the technology is optional and travelers may decline having their photo taken. Travelers under 18 are not photographed."You Won't Need an ID Anymore Under TSA's New Pilot Program at 14 Airports first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 10, 2025 Solve the daily Crossword
