from all the times i've waited for baggage claim.. seen stuff.. lots of..
stuff come down the belt... torn-up, beat-up, and loose.. and busted open..etc..
i don't trust to check-in anything you can't/won't care to lose or break..
airport workers in the back are rough..
the only time they are careful ..is at check-in.. cuz you are watching..
i use to work for TSA as a screener.. when i had to work in baggage screening..
for a little while..in the back room..
i've seen the guys in the back room..throw the bags on the belt..after inspection..
kind of like that old commercial for luggage with the ape.....
but i've also worked for UPS... same stuff..
USPS.. same..etc..
get the idea now ?
fyi.. travel with a beater folding bike..