How to Keep Your Luggage Safe When You Travel
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Checking a bag is second nature for most travellers, but how much thought do you actually give to your luggage once it leaves your hands? A little preparation before you fly can save you a lot of stress (and potentially a lot worse) down the road. Here are our top tips for keeping your belongings safe from check-in to baggage claim.
1. Choose Distinctive Luggage
Generic black suitcases are everywhere on baggage carousels, making mix-ups more likely. Opt for luggage in a bold colour or unique pattern, or add a bright luggage strap, ribbon, or custom tag to make yours instantly recognizable. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
Also, take a moment to remove any old baggage tags or stickers from previous trips. These can confuse airport scanners and potentially cause your bag to be misdirected to the wrong destination.
2. Document Your Bag Before You Hand It Over
Before checking your luggage, take a few photos or a short video of it from multiple angles. Include a clear shot of your baggage tag, with the barcode and destination visible. If anything goes wrong, this documentation is invaluable.
3. Double-Check Your Baggage Tag
When the agent attaches your tag at check-in, take a moment to verify that the tag number on your receipt matches the one physically on your bag, and that the destination code is correct. It only takes a second and ensures your bag is headed to the right place.
4. Note Your Bag's Weight
If the check-in desk displays your luggage weight, make a note of it. This can be a useful reference point if your bag arrives heavier than expected, or not at all.
5. Use a Luggage Tracker
Slipping a tracker inside your suitcase is a game-changer — you can monitor your bag’s location in real time from your phone. If your luggage gets delayed, misrouted, or goes missing, you’ll know exactly where it is. iPhone users can use an Apple AirTag, while Android users can opt for a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag — both work seamlessly with their respective devices.
6. Hold On to Your Baggage Receipt
That little sticker the agent puts on your boarding pass? Don’t throw it away. Keep your baggage claim receipt for the entire trip, it’s your proof of ownership and essential if you need to file a claim.
7. Inspect Your Bag at Arrival
As soon as your bag comes off the carousel, give it a quick once-over. Check that it’s actually yours, that nothing looks tampered with, and that all zippers and locks are as you left them. Report anything unusual to airport staff straight away.
8. Consider Travelling Carry-On Only
When your itinerary allows it, skipping checked luggage entirely is the simplest way to keep your belongings under your control. It also saves time at the airport and eliminates the risk of your bag being delayed or lost.
Travelling should be exciting, not stressful.
A few small habits can go a long way toward making sure your trip starts and ends smoothly.
Have questions about preparing for your next adventure?
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