If there aren’t already enough things to worry about – and to get organized – prior to going on a trip, luggage is one thing that has really risen to the top of the list for many travelers. As a travel professional myself, I know that I spend time thinking this through, so I can only imagine what it is like for those not in the business – in other words, our guests!
So much has been written in the past 18 months about luggage weight, airport baggage fees, little bottles, etc., that even the most savvy of travelers may find themselves wondering what to pack, what can be put in a carry-on and how much extra it will cost to check a bag. And then (for the true “Type A" personality) if I do decide to check, will I see my bag being loaded onto the plane?
Here I will discuss what to do in the case of stolen items from your luggage, and what to do in the unfortunate case of lost luggage, as well as my top five packing tips. Don't be caught unaware! Let me help you!
Who is responsible if someone steals something from your bag?
Word to the wise fellow travelers, and you have heard it a million times: PLACE NOTHING VALUABLE IN YOUR SUITCASE! Don’t pack anything you can’t replace if your bag doesn’t reach your destination, or if when you reach your destination someone has gone through your bag and it’s missing.
If you do get to your destination and discover something is missing from your bag, the absolute first step you should take is to call the local police and file a police report. Typically you must report stolen items within 24 hours of receiving your bag. So, do this while still at the airport. If you go directly to TSA, they will want a police report.
Keep in mind the airline's liability to reimburse for lost or missing baggage generally tops out at around $3,000 for domestic flights, and they will require thorough documentation of your lost items’ value. Make sure to have as much documentation as you can regarding the value of your belongings, with copies and pictures if at all possible. You should also review the airline's policy on lost or stolen items, as many items such as cameras and jewelry are exempt from the airline’s liability.
Place a claim. Know that claims can take weeks, if not months to finalize. Be prepared for multiple correspondence and long lags in response times. Be sure to document who you spoke with, along with the date, time and a brief description of the conversation for your records.
What happens to all of those bags that never get found – LOST LUGGAGE?
In the unfortunate case of lost luggage, again I recommend never packing anything you can’t buy when you get there. If you are traveling on business, make sure to wear business casual on the plane so that if your luggage is lost or delayed you will still be presentable for your presentation. And be sure to place a lost luggage claim.
But luggage just doesn’t disappear into thin air – eventually it has to show up, right? Well it does, and with a little research I found a company that purchases baggage from airlines that go unclaimed for 90 days. Get this: they sell the items at a discount store! Of all places, the store is in Scottsboro, Alabama, and is call the “Unclaimed Baggage Store.” Can you imagine what they have for sale?
My advice to my fellow travelers:
Five Easy Packing Tips to Live By:
- Pack light. Seriously, evaluate every item you place in your suitcase
- Wear everything twice (you know what I mean)
- Pick the same color scheme – so to cut down on the number of shoes you might need
- If you KNOW you are not going to have time to work out, leave the workout clothes and running shoes at home
- Don’t bring your special shampoo, lotion, etc.; use the ones at the hotel
