Yes, it is not necessary to refrigerate wine before packing it for air travel. In fact, for most flights, it is not feasible to bring wine in a refrigerated state unless you have special arrangements with the airline or the airport.
When packing wine for air travel, the most important consideration is to protect the bottles from breaking and spilling. Here are some tips for safely packing wine for air travel:
Wrap the bottles: Use bubble wrap or clothing items to wrap each bottle individually. This will provide some cushioning and prevent them from clinking against each other during transport.
Use a wine bottle protector: There are specialized wine bottle protectors available that you can slide over each bottle to provide extra protection.
Place in a sealable plastic bag: In case a bottle were to break or leak, placing each wrapped bottle inside a sealable plastic bag can help contain any spills and protect your other belongings in your luggage.
Pack in the middle of your luggage: Position the wine bottles in the center of your checked luggage, surrounded by clothing or soft items to provide further protection.
Check airline regulations: Be sure to check the airline's rules and regulations regarding transporting alcohol. Some airlines may have specific guidelines or restrictions on the quantity of alcohol you can carry.
Declare if necessary: If you are carrying a significant quantity of wine, especially for international flights, you may need to declare it at customs.
It's worth noting that wine can generally withstand temperature variations during air travel. However, if you are particularly concerned about the wine's quality, you can always let the bottles settle for a day or two after the journey to allow any potential shock from temperature changes to dissipate before opening the bottles.
Always be mindful of the regulations and restrictions of the countries you are traveling to and from, as there may be specific rules regarding the importation of alcohol. When in doubt, it's a good idea to consult with the airline or relevant authorities before your trip.