Tips To Prevent Baggage Issues While Traveling

Thanksgivng Holiday travel at Washington Dulles Airport in Virginia

Flight delays and cancellations can be stressful enough without the added worry of delayed, lost, stolen, or damaged baggage. To help travelers navigate these potential issues, here are some proactive steps to take:

Before You Go to the Airport:

• Book Nonstop Flights: Prioritize nonstop flights or layovers with ample time to reduce the risk of baggage mishaps.
• Take Pictures of Your Luggage: Capture images of your bags and their contents in case you need to provide detailed descriptions to airline staff.
• Use Baggage Tracking: Many airline apps offer real-time tracking of checked bags, or consider using independent tracking devices like AirTags.

At the Airport:

• Check Your Bags Early: Avoid last-minute check-ins, as rushing the process can increase the likelihood of issues with your luggage.
• Keep Valuables in Your Carry-On: The TSA recommends storing valuables, such as jewelry, in your carry-on to prevent loss or theft.
• Verify Baggage Tags: Double-check that your luggage tags are correctly labeled with your destination, especially after curbside check-in.

Take pictures of your luggage and contents for reference.

Book nonstop flights or layovers with ample time to reduce baggage mishaps.

Utilize baggage tracking through airline apps or independent devices.

By following these tips, travelers can better safeguard their belongings and minimize the potential impact of baggage-related problems during their journey.