Flying can be stressful, especially when it comes to keeping track of your luggage. To help ensure your luggage arrives safely with you, here are some practical tips to protect your luggage and reduce the chances of it getting lost or stolen.
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Top tips to keep your luggage safe while traveling
1. Take a photo of your luggage
Take a quick picture of your suitcases before you travel so that you can provide a clear description in the unfortunate event that your luggage is lost. This can help you get reunited with your bags faster.
After all, being able to show the agent a picture with the brand and particular details is much more helpful than answering I don’t know to the brand or style. Describing it a black rectangle with a zipper isn’t so helpful.
2. Luggage tags
Ensure that your luggage has luggage tags with up-to-date contact information, this will help to reunite you with your bags should they become lost as well as help confirm that it is your bag.
I suggest ones with privacy panels so that your information isn’t easily viewed by others around you. Or, if your tag doesn’t have the privacy panel feature, insert the contact page backwards. Your contact details can still be easily found if needed but isn’t shown to everyone near you.
Also choose one that is eye-catching which helps to identify the bags as yours and that has a strong attachment like the ones below.
You can see these luggage tags with privacy panels on Amazon here.
3. Remove old airline tags
Remove old airline or cruise line luggage tags and stickers. Old tags can confuse baggage handlers and automated systems, so be sure to remove those before your next flight.
4. Make your luggage stand out
Add unique identifiers to make your suitcase stand out on the carousel or in the cruise ship terminal. There are several ways to do this:
- Colorful luggage straps – helps make your luggage stand out plus helps deter people from opening your bags
- Stickers
- Unique luggage covers (see image below for a great example)
- Suitcase handle wraps
- Bright colored or patterned luggage. If you are in the market for a new set, consider something different.
- Reflective tape
You might have noticed that tying a ribbon or scarf on your luggage isn’t on the list, this is because that isn’t recommended. These can get caught in the conveyer equipment.
5. Use TSA approved locks
Secure your luggage with TSA-approved locks to prevent tampering while allowing for the necessary security checks.
6. Put contact information inside your bag
Place a card with your contact information inside your luggage as an extra precaution in case the external tags are lost or damaged.
7. Secure loose straps
Ensure all straps and handles are tucked away or secured to prevent them from getting caught in the baggage handling equipment. This is particularly important if your luggage is a backpack.
8. Use a tracking device
Consider placing a GPS tracker in your checked luggage for real-time updates on its location. An Apple AirTag is a popular option.
9. Pack an extra outfit in your carry on
In case your luggage is delayed, having a change of clothes in your carry-on can be a life saver.
This is especially important if you are flying to catch a cruise. There has been the rare occasion that delayed or missing luggage isn’t reunited with the passenger prior to them getting on a cruise ship. Having a change of clothing can help get you by until you are reunited with your luggage possibly at the next cruise port.
I like to put my change of clothes in a packing cube, this takes up less space in my carry on, keeps the clothes together without moving around getting wrinkled at the bottom of my bag.
10. Keep medications in your carry-on
This is another important luggage tip. Be sure to always keep your medications with you in your carry-on. You can’t risk those being lost or delayed.
By taking these simple steps you can help protect your luggage and help ensure it arrives safely and intact at your destination.