Whether you're traveling to see friends and family or closing the deal of a lifetime, for many of us flying has become a necessity. And while flying is becoming safer by the day, it seems that for your luggage, the underbelly of the plane is still a dark and mysterious - and sometimes dangerous place to be.
Learn a few simple steps that can help you avoid losing your luggage - and even your temper - the next time you fly.
o If you can - avoid checking your bags. Simply roll your clothes tightly, pack only what you need and be on your way. (It's the ultimate way to avoid losing your luggage - because it's always with you!)
o If you must check a bag, consider using a shipping service to get your luggage to your destination. Insured and completely trackable, you can send your precious cargo ahead of you so all you have to do is head to your hotel.
o Avoid the frustration of lost luggage and pack the items you'll need within the first day or so into your carry-on. This way, if your checked bag is lost, you'll have enough clothing, medication, etc. to get you through the first day or so of your stay.
o Likewise, truly valuable or precious items should be left at home - or at least carried on.
o Always make sure your luggage tag information is current and contains your cell phone number and destination contact information. As a precaution, put the same information in a slip of paper inside your checked bag, as well.
o Always check your bag before you leave the baggage claim area. Many bags look similar and checking the contents of the bag will help ensure the bag you have is, in fact, yours.
Certainly to the last point, carrying a bag that is a color other than black can help you locate your luggage quickly. And while more luggage manufacturers are offering bags in red, blue and green, sometimes that's just not enough to break through the luggage clutter on the carousel.
