A trip that started off great with the identification of cheap travel options such as cheap airplane tickets and discount hotel rooms or cheap vacation packages can become quite frustrating if your checked luggage does not arrive at your destination.
The following strategies recommended by Frommers Travel will help you avoid or if necessary, effectively deal with lost luggage:
Before purchasing your airline ticket research the airlines you are considering flying on. Dont assume that your luggage will not be lost in transit, because it can happen to anyone. Sites like Skytrax allow you to see how one airline compares against others in regard to customer service so that you will know how it responds to lost luggage. Check on airlines websites to view their lost luggage liability policies.
Make a list of everything you pack. This will help you if your belongings are lost and you need to file a claim for reimbursement from the airline.
Note the brand, color, size and distinguishing features of your luggage so that you can provide the airline with an accurate description. Otherwise take pictures of your bags with a cell phone or camera that you take on your trip.
Make your luggage stand out by placing something colorful on its exterior (such as brightly colored tape or cloth) that can be seen at a distance. This helps prevent people from mistakenly taking a similar bag and helps airlines identify your bag if lost.
If you are traveling with someone else, prepare for the worst by packing some of your clothes in a companions bag and vice versa so that at least some of your clothes will arrive. It is highly unlikely that two different bags will get lost. Also it is smart to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.
Place a copy of your travel itinerary including hotel contact information in each checked bag.
Make a point of confirming that your bag has the proper three letter destination airport code and watch the airline representative attach the baggage check tag to your luggage. Consider taking a picture of your baggage claim ticket so you wont have to worry if you later misplace it.
If you bag appears lost, go directly to an airline baggage claim counter with your baggage claim, boarding pass and luggage description/photo. Do not exit the airport prior to filling out a lost bag report and getting a copy of that report as well as airline contact information so you can follow up. Also request written information on how to file a claim. Ask to see in writing when the airline will reimburse you for essentials purchased (keep all receipts) until your luggage is found or given up for lost.
If you leave the airport without your checked luggage, inform the hotel you are staying at about your situation. Either you or the concierge should make follow up calls to the airline.
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