I've been to 17 countries and swear by checking a bag when I travel. It's a little luxury that's worth the price every single time.

After visiting 17 countries, I've learned checking a bag makes my travel experience more enjoyable. Forgoing a carry-on and checking a bag means I don't have to compete for overhead bin space. When traveling with a large checked bag, I get to pack everything I want to bring on my trip.

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You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking "unsubscribe" at the bottom of the email. Advertisement I consider myself fairly frugal when it comes to travel. I've booked the 6 a.

m. flight to save $50 and have flown basic economy more times than I'd care to admit. But after visiting 17 countries, there's one little luxury I can't go without when flying: checking a bag.

Yes, the average airfare for a US roundtrip flight alone is upward of $360, and checking a bag both ways can be expensive — usually about $50 to $70 both ways. However, I believe a more comfortable travel experience is worth the splurge. This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers.

Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? Log in . Checking a bag makes my time in the airp.