The Bar Towel

I'm going to be in Belgium in May and I've been wondering about the best way to get beer back to Ontario. I thought I'd ask those of you that have went how you've typically done it. Do you mail it back? Bring it in your luggage? I was really hoping to somehow get as much beer back as possible, as I don't know when I'll be going back to Belgium, if at all.

I bought a second suitcase while I was there and checked it.

I have brought beer back from Europe in my checked luggage. I have been over the limit, not by an outrageous amount, but over nonetheless, have always declared it, and have never had a problem.

This is good to know - thanks you two.

Would you recommend that I bring packing supplies like bubble wrap if I'm going to buy an extra suitcase?

If you're going to declare it, why not just check a box of beer?

Cadbury102 wrote:Would you recommend that I bring packing supplies like bubble wrap if I'm going to buy an extra suitcase?

Not really. On the few times I've flown with beer, I would wrap things in socks and tee shirts and whatnot, use what you've got in other words augmented with whatever bags & newspaper etc are handy. Actually I did bring a dozen zip lock bags one time but not certain how well they would contain a leak or a break.

Packing heavy beer bottles is honestly kind of a pain and makes the baggage weight excessive. I likely won't bother much again. But never mind me, go have fun!

Cadbury102 wrote: Would you recommend that I bring packing supplies like bubble wrap if I'm going to buy an extra suitcase?

Depends how many bottles you are bringing vs clothing. We often bring some plastic grocery bags (handy for separating laundry anyways). Wrap bottles in socks, clothing and plastic bag just in case.

Masterplan wrote:If you're going to declare it, why not just check a box of beer?

I'd thought about that but my main concern would be breakage.

Belgian wrote:Not really. On the few times I've flown with beer, I would wrap things in socks and tee shirts and whatnot, use what you've got in other words augmented with whatever bags & newspaper etc are handy. Actually I did bring a dozen zip lock bags one time but not certain how well they would contain a leak or a break.

Packing heavy beer bottles is honestly kind of a pain and makes the baggage weight excessive. I likely won't bother much again. But never mind me, go have fun!

I like the idea of ziploc bags. In terms of weight of the baggage, I'm not too concerned - 50lbs of beer is plenty

JerCraigs wrote:Depends how many bottles you are bringing vs clothing. We often bring some plastic grocery bags (handy for separating laundry anyways). Wrap bottles in socks, clothing and plastic bag just in case.

I'm purposely packing very light. In line with your first reply to me, having an empty suitcase for the return will allow for plenty of room.