Imagine the scenario: You have just stepped off the plane at your destination for an important business meeting, to catch a cruise ship or a long overdue family vacation. To your dismay, after everyone else has grabbed their bags from the luggage carousel, you realize that your bags are not there and you have no clothes for the next week. Although lost luggage is a rare occurrence – less than 0.05% of checked bags are permanently lost – when it does happen to you, it is an inconvenience, to say the least. There are some things you can do to minimize the chances of your luggage being lost or delayed; and to minimize the inconvenience if that does happen.
To begin with, you should always put valuable and important things, such as camera, passport and other documents, and prescription medication in your carry on bag. It is also a good idea to put a change of clothes in your carry on bag too, so you are prepared in the event of a minor delay with your checked bags. You are also allowed to carry on to the plane with you what the airlines refer to as a “personal item” – a small backpack, camera or laptop for example.
Some Travel Tips for You and Your Luggage...
These days, all checked bags are required to have a luggage label; make sure the address on yours is legible and up to date. Some suitcases have a pocket sewn into the outside, with a transparent cover, use this for your name and address as it is more secure. It is also a good idea to put your name and address as well as a copy of your flight itinerary inside your luggage as well in case the outside label comes off. If your suitcase is older and beginning to look its age, make sure any zippers, straps and pockets are secure for your journey. Loose straps can catch on the mechanism of the automated baggage distribution system at the airport. Colorful or distinctive straps tied firmly around your luggage make it easier to spot on the baggage carousel at the other end.
Not surprisingly, most luggage is delayed or lost when you have to make a connection somewhere – especially one that is short on time. Try to take a nonstop flight if you possibly can, or if you have to change planes, try to catch a flight earlier in the day so you have “back up” flight options for both you and your bags. An early morning flight is statistically less likely to be delayed or cancelled. Ask your airline representative for the Department of Transportation “on-time” statistics for your particular flight, which you have the right to know.