As someone who brings in 50 lb. suitcases of kosher products whenever I return from the First World, here's the deal. I have called the airlines and checked with vendors: All and any meat products must be frozen and in original packaging. Liquids (milk, juice, etc.) should also be frozen. Entire contents must be enclosed in a plastic bag (those air sucker bags are great) inside the suitcase. A few ice packs tucked in and around are also a good idea. You also have to be willing to lose some, in case some random agent decided he wants chicken that week.
Agreed. But you just triggered a flashback for me.
Several years ago, 5-6 probably, we were flying down for 4 months. Like you, I filled a suitcase with frozen meat. It was almost all beef. A few roasts and two big packages of Angus beef patties from Sam’s Club, 6 pounds each I think. A small leg of lamb. Everything was in the freezer until we left for the airport, inside large zippered insulated bags. We had 4 suitcases, and you guessed it…..that one didn’t make the plane. We landed on a Sunday. On Monday afternoon they called to say it was at SDQ, but they close that office at 5. It was 4:30 and we were well over an hour away. We got up early Tuesday and got to the airport at 8 am. Picked up the suitcase and drove home, expecting the worst. Maybe it was kept in a cool or outdoor place, (January) , and the cargo area on planes is cool, but we were shocked to find everything still cold and only the outer edges slightly thawed. We dodged a bullet, and never brought meat again, except in our carryons.