Christmas is a busy time for airports. Not only is it a time for people to travel and visit their families in their native countries but it is also the school holidays and of course, a time for a well-deserved break. However, there are 100,000 bags of luggage misplaced or lost during flights and at airports every single day. As the busy Christmas and New Year travel period is fast approaching, many travellers face increased risks of luggage mishaps. 

To help ensure nothing important goes missing, the experts at 1st Move International Removals have provided tips on how you can reduce the risk of lost luggage. They have also shared what steps a traveller can take if luggage goes missing. 

Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, said: “The first thing you should do is report the issue to the airline’s baggage claim officer or customer service desk before leaving the airport, as this initiates the tracking process. 

“Usually, baggage will be tagged with your flight information, but just in case you want to give the airline a description, be as thorough as possible. How many cases, how big are they, what colour are they, and what brand? Every bit of information helps.

“I would also check your travel insurance policy for coverage in case of lost or delayed baggage, and keep receipts for any purchases if you have to replace lost items, even if they might be found later. You may be able to claim these costs back. In case of situations like this, it is always advised to try and pack a few days’ worth of essentials in your hand luggage.”

Paper version of details and itinerary in 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 the luggage. This simple step can help airline staff reunite the individual with their belongings faster.

Choose direct flights when 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 the luggage and reducing the chance of mistakes.

Remove old airline stickers and tags from 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.

Use a sturdy luggage tag

With a luggage tag that is both durable and distinct, travellers will be able to locate their belongings after a flight, and others will be less likely to mistake a suitcase for their own. 

Make sure to keep the contact details on the tag up-to-date as this will also make it easier for staff to return lost baggage.

Get a GPS luggage tracker

For extra assurance, buying a good-quality GPS tracker can do wonders. Airtags or Tile Mates can be easily stored in the suitcase, allowing someone to track its whereabouts from their phone. 

Not only will it put you at ease for the flight, but it will also make it easier to find the luggage in the event an airline does lose it.

Take a photo of the baggage before check-in

A quick snapshot of the bag can be a lifesaver if it goes missing. It gives airport staff a reference image of what they’re looking for, helping them identify and return the luggage more efficiently and ensure it’s safely returned.