Rubbermaid’s 25 gallon Roughneck Tote is the best container to use as checked baggage when transporting a lot of stuff via intercontinental flights. The length + width + height dimensions are the maximum allowed by airlines, maximizing the volume per piece of baggage, they stack nicely on airport carts and the handles make loading and unloading convenient. I have used this method since 2008, moving back and forth from the U.S. to Kuwait, Nigeria and South Korea, taking a couple dozen of these totes on several dozen flights. I’ve never had a problem and never lost a tote or lid.
They’re available at most Ace Hardware stores. On Amazon.com, the shipping charges are prohibitive. But if you visit my favorite hometown Blain’s Farm and Fleet, you can get 4 of them shipped just about anywhere in the US for around $20 each. While you’re there, throw in your 14″ zip ties, colored duct tape, packing tape, and Sharpie.
The only challenge is closing them up to remain sealed during travel. But, there is an easy way of handling this. I use a 5/16″ drill bit (8mm) to put 12 holes strategically placed around the lid which accept plastic zip-ties or 16 gauge solid-core copper wire to keep the tote sealed.
It’s important to put the holes in the right place so that if you use several totes, any lid will be able to be used on any tote with the lid and tote holes lining up perfectly. Check out my video for the details: