You have booked your airline tickets, taken full advantage of holiday specials, planned your itinerary and packed your bags. Sadly, if you are a first-time flyer, the possibility of losing your luggage has probably not even crossed your mind and, as a result, you have probably not done much in order to protect yourself from this kind of negligence. Unfortunately, lost, damaged and stolen luggage is a massive concern within the airline industry. The good news is that it is possible to take action so as to ensure that your luggage arrives safely and at its correct destination.
What can actually happen to your luggage?
Your luggage can be:
- Delayed: If your bags have been delayed, try not to stress. This just means that your bags have been misplaced and, most likely, loaded onto the incorrect plane. The airline will be able to track the status of your bags and provide you with information regarding when exactly you can expect to have them back in your possession.
- Lost: In this instance, your bags have been lost and are no longer able to be tracked. As a result, the airline will likely reimburse you for your loss. Keep in mind, however, that most airlines have a set amount that they are willing to pay for claims for lost baggage. If your bags have been lost, remember to get a written claim for the damages before leaving the airport. 1
- Stolen: If your bags have been stolen, the airline will reimburse you similarly to the way in which they would if your bags had been lost.
- Damaged: If your baggage has been damaged, you need to report it before leaving the airport. Remember that the airline will only pay for severe damage. General wear and tear is generally not dealt with.
Tips for preventing problems with baggage
- Invest in travel insurance. This is an imperative aspect of travel that so many of us choose to overlook. If something does happen to your baggage, with adequate travel insurance, you will not have to worry too much about the associated costs.
- Try to get to baggage claim as soon as possible once you have landed. This will reduce the likelihood of your bags being stolen or tampered with.
- Pack your valuables into your carry-on bags.
- Buy a proper lock for your luggage. Theft is a big issue around the world when it comes to loading and unloading luggage. Don't make it easy for criminals to take advantage of you. Take action instead and ensure that your bags are secure at all times.
- Arrive at the airport on time. If you check in late, the chances of your bags being misplaced or lost are much higher. This is because there will be quite a rush to get them loaded in order to avoid delaying the aircraft.
- Try to book direct flights. Connecting flights can be quite difficult to manage, especially if time is tight. When flying direct, you reduce your chance of experiencing any problems with your baggage.
Ultimately, when it comes to enjoying a pleasant flight and ensuring that your luggage gets to where it needs to be, it all boils down to the airline that you choose to fly with. The more reputable the airline, the less chance there is of any problems occurring before, during and after your baggage has been loaded.
Martin Wynn
