There are some simple steps you can take to lower the chances of you losing your luggage while flying abroad
From making sure your suitcase isn’t too heavy to ensuring you leave enough time to get through security, there are so many things to think about when you’re going on holiday.
Luggage is a particular source of stress for many people, with airlines each setting different size and weight limits for bags – with hefty charges if you go over. But there’s another common luggage mistake that could lead to you losing your bags.
According to the experts at 1st Move International removals, one error that could lead to you running into a luggage mishap is not removing old airline stickers and tags from your belongings.
It’s easy to forget to remove tags from previous flights, but doing so can cause confusion for airport staff, potentially leading to lost luggage. Make sure to remove all tags from previous flights so your baggage is correctly identified and easily tracked if it goes missing.
By taking some additional steps when packing your case, you can reduce the likelihood of it going missing. For example, the experts recommend adding a paper version of your details and travel itinerary to your suitcase.
Occasionally, luggage tags fall off or are damaged during transit. In this case, it’s a good idea to keep a paper copy of your contact information and itinerary inside your luggage to help airline staff reunite you with your belongings faster.
On the subject of luggage tags, make sure to choose one that is sturdy, visible and distinctive – and make sure your details are up to date. This will reduce the chances of other passengers mistaking your suitcase for their own.
For extra assurance, you could even place a GPS luggage tracker in your suitcase, allowing you to track its whereabouts from your phone.
Another thing to consider is the type of journey you are embarking on. If you’re travelling with lots of checked-in bags, it is better to choose direct flights wherever possible.
Most baggage losses occur during international flights, especially those with layovers during busy periods, due to the increased risk of transferring baggage from one aircraft to another. To lower the risk, try to book direct flights.
If a layover is necessary, opt for a longer one, giving staff more time to transfer your luggage and reducing the chance of mistakes.
If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here
