Abstract: An inflatable insert is receivable in an item of luggage, such as a suitcase, for protecting fragile articles as they are transported in the item of luggage. The insert includes an inflatable wall portion which is receivable in an item of luggage so that it extends along the inner side of the sidewall thereof and a pocket element on the inner side of the inflatable wall portion for receiving and containing a fragile article in the item of luggage so that it is protected by the inflatable wall portion of the insert. The insert preferably further includes inflatable top and bottom flaps on the upper and lower ends of the inflatable wall portion which are positionable so that they extend inwardly adjacent the upper and lower ends of the pocket element, respectively, for further protecting a fragile article contained in the pocket element.