7 Ways To Prevent Your Luggage Getting Lost

We’ve all heard the horror stories of lost luggage, and it’s a nightmare every traveller hopes to avoid. While airlines continue to make improvements to their baggage handling systems, mishandled baggage still occurs. To help we have come up with 7 ways to prevent your luggage getting lost.

So let’s get started…

1. Choose A Direct Flight

Whenever possible, book a direct flight to your destination. The more connections you have, the higher the chances of your luggage getting misplaced during transfers. By eliminating connections, you greatly reduce the risk of your bags going astray.

However, if you do have to connect, make sure there is enough time between when you land and take your next flight. Having enough time is not only for yourself to get onto the connecting flight but also for the airline to transfer your luggage.

2. Make Your Bag Stand Out

A unique-looking bag is not only easier to spot on the luggage carousel but also less likely to be mistakenly picked up by another passenger. Opt for luggage with a distinctive colour or pattern, or customise your bag with bold accessories, such as colourful luggage straps or ribbons.

3. Label Your Luggage Properly

Attach a luggage tag to your bag with your name, phone number, email address, and the address of your destination accommodation. Avoid using your home address, as this may pose a security risk.

In addition to the clearly labelled external tag, place a copy of your contact information inside your suitcase. Should your external tag fall off, having your details inside the bag will still allow airline staff to contact you and return your luggage.

4. Remove Old Tags & Barcodes

Before you embark on your journey, make sure to remove any old airline tags or barcodes from your luggage. These can cause confusion during the baggage handling process, increasing the chances of preventing your luggage getting lost and getting to the right destination.

5. Luggage Trackers

Using trackers with your luggage provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind. These small, devices use Bluetooth technology to connect with your smartphone, allowing you to track the location of your belongings in real-time. By attaching an tracker to your suitcase, you can monitor its whereabouts through the App, making it easier to locate your luggage in case it gets lost or misplaced.

Additionally, if your bag is not within range, the tracker can utilise a vast network to help pinpoint its location, ensuring that you have a better chance of recovering your belongings. This solution not only reduces the stress associated with travelling but also empowers you to take control of your luggage’s security and whereabouts, giving you more confidence during your journey.

6. Snap A Photo Of Your Luggage

Before handing your luggage over at the airline check-in desk or at baggage drop-off, take a photo of your suitcase with your smartphone. In the event that your luggage goes missing, having a visual reference can make it easier for airline staff to locate and identify your luggage, speeding up the recovery process. Plus if your baggage is damaged by the airline, having evidence will speed up claims with the airline or travel insurance provider.

7. Check-In Early

Arriving at the airport and checking in your luggage well ahead of time is a great way to prevent your luggage getting lost and mishandled. Rushing to check-in your bags at the last minute increases the chances of errors occurring during the baggage handling process. Give yourself and the airline ample time to ensure your luggage is properly tagged and loaded onto your flight.

To Wrap Up On Ways To Prevent Your Luggage Getting Lost

While there’s no foolproof way to guarantee that your luggage won’t get lost, following these tips can significantly reduce the risk of mishandled luggage. By taking a proactive approach you can enjoy a smoother, stress-free travel experience, knowing that your belongings are more likely to arrive safely at your destination.

Finally, for great advise on what to take in your carry-on, read our great blog post about the Essential Items To Pack In Your Carry-On Bag.