Cheap travel deals such as cheap airplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, and cheap vacation packages often provide key incentives to travel. Unfortunately, the anticipated pleasure of taking a trip can be diluted if your checked bags are not waiting for you at your destination.
Even though almost all checked luggage arrives on time and packed as you left it, Conde Nast Traveler recommends doing the following before departing for your plane:
Take pictures of the contents of your packed luggage and write down a detailed list of valuable items, matched with sales receipts when possible.
Pack an itinerary in each checked bag that provides your destination including the address and phone number of where you will be staying.
Include inside checked baggage your name, email address and cell phone number.
Remove any and all tags from earlier trips. Make certain there are no old UPC codes on your bags that could confuse airport scanners.
Remove any straps and lock wheels that otherwise might cause your bag to get stuck on a conveyor belt.
Do not check bags that appear expensive. Cloth bags draw far fewer thieves than leather luggage.
Avoid packing anything valuable in checked luggage that you cannot do without at your destination. Items such as laptops, other electronics, medication, jewelry, and important documents should be packed in your carry-on. Airlines generally will not accept liability for such items.
Write the address of your destination (where you will be spending your first night) vs. your home address on the outside of your bag. By writing your home address on the outside of your bag a thief may take notice as to the best time to rob your home.
If available, consider using one of the luggage wrapping services offered at many airport to protect your bags from dents and theft. At around $10 per bag your suitcase will be wrapped in plastic. If security opens your bag, it is usually rewrapped for free.
As soon as possible after you arrive at your destination, check to confirm everything is there. It is important to file claims with the airline and your insurer as promptly as possible.
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