1st Move International has shared what details travellers should – and more importantly, should not – include on their luggage tag. Sharing too much personal information can be a risk.
A luggage tag may come in handy during chaotic travel, but experts warn that you should add details sparingly.
British holidaymakers are being advised to think twice about what personal contact information you should include in your luggage tag.
Speaking to LadBible, Mike Harvey – managing director of 1st Move International – provided guidance on how to toe the line between smart preparation and personal security. “When creating luggage tags for your suitcases, it’s crucial to balance providing essential contact information with protecting your personal security,” says Harvey.
In his guidance of what to jot down on your luggage tag, Harvey says your name should definitely be on there. “Use your full name as it appears on your passport,” he clarifies, “this helps assist airline staff in locating and safely returning your belongings if they go missing.”
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Your phone number is also a safe bet – and a must. But be sure to note down your country code to ensure that whomever comes across your luggage can more easily contact you even if you’re not in your home country.
An email address is also a smart addition, according to Harvey. He suggests including an email address for additional contact, especially important if you’re travelling internationally.
If you’re worried about privacy he says you can always create a separate travel email address to keep it distinct from your personal one. To really protect your privacy there is one thing you should definitely avoid adding.
Never put your home address down, he said, as this is a privacy and security concern based on the fact you never know where your luggage might end up or in whose hands.
While some people make note of valuables in their luggage – in the hope that it is handled with care – Harvey says this is also not a good idea. “Avoid mentioning any valuable items inside your suitcase to prevent drawing unwanted attention,” he advises.
Your travel plans and destinations should also not be added to your luggage tag. Harvey explains: “Keep your travel itinerary and destination details private to prevent misuse of your information.”
It goes without saying that highly sensitive information like your national insurance number or passport number should not be written down either, including any travel insurance details.
Luggage experts also highlight the importance of keeping the airport-provided luggage sticker on your checked-in baggage. According to the experts at the independent London-based luggage brand, GMT Zero, your checked-in luggage goes through a harrowing process to reach your final destination. Involving a “whirl of belts” and “robotic arms, ramps, and carts” the process is “a bit like in Willy Wonka’s factory”.
Thus, you should ensure your baggage tag – which states your departure and arrival airport – is securely fastened to your bag and in good condition. Airport staff are usually on hand to help attach it at the self-service baggage drop-off station.