Every day, 100,000 bags are misplaced or lost during flights and at airports. With the busy Christmas and New Year travel season approaching, travellers face a heightened risk of luggage mishaps.
To help ensure that no gifts or Christmas sweaters go missing this festive season, the experts at 1st Move International Removals have shared one top tip to help reduce the risk of lost luggage.
Removing old airline tags from your luggage will minimize the risk of bags getting lost or misrouted. Ensuring that your tags are up to date will help your luggage reach its destination without a hitch.
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When travelling, airline baggage systems rely on clear, accurate tags to send bags to the correct destination. This means that leftover tags from previous flights can confuse automated scanners, which might accidentally read an old barcode and send the bag to the wrong location.
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With the increasing use of self-service kiosks and automated baggage systems, having a single, up-to-date tag is crucial for efficiency. Removing outdated tags is a quick, simple step that helps ensure your bag arrives at the right place, making for a smoother travel experience.
The experts remind travellers to remove old tags, saying “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.”
The experts also shared some more top tips to keep your luggage safe in transit this winter.
Add your own luggage tag
Adding a luggage tag that is both durable and distinct will help you locate your belongings after a flight and will make it less likely that someone else will mistake it for their own.
This tag should include your name and contact details, with the experts urging “Make sure to keep the contact details on your tag up-to-date as this will also make it easier for staff to return lost baggage to you.”
Include a paper version of your details and itinerary in your suitcase
The experts explain “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 your luggage. This simple step can help airline staff reunite you with your belongings faster.”
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Get a GPS luggage tracker
For extra assurance, buying a good-quality GPS tracker can do wonders.
They say “Airtags or Tile Mates can be easily stored in your suitcase, allowing you to track its whereabouts from your phone. Not only will it put you at ease for your flight, but it will also make it easier to find your luggage in the event an airline does lose it.”
Take a photo of your baggage before check-in
Just in case the worst happens, the experts recommend taking a quick snapshot of your bag. The experts say “This 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 your luggage more efficiently and ensure it’s safely returned.”
Should your luggage go astray on your next adventure, the experts have offered some practical advice on what to do. 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.”
He continues “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.”
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