HOW TO AVOID LOST LUGGAGE PROBLEMS

Knowing the statistics and the measures to take to avoid lost luggage problems, is a traveler's first line of defense against this problem.

U. S. airlines on the average lose, misplace, or misdirect about 11,000 luggages a day. There are no statistics for the whole of the worldwide airline industry, but with the numbers above, one gets a pretty good picture of the probability of losing a check-in luggage.

The following tips taken from the Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection website will help avoid losing your baggage during your trip. I also have added some of my own experience with lost luggage.

Things You Can Do to Avoid Lost Luggage Problems

Check-in early.

Every time I travel by air, I always make it a habit to check in early. Less stress for me, and the people manning the check-in process and for baggage handlers. If you check-in late, chances are you will make it to your flight, but your luggage may not make it in time - thus getting separated from you for the rest of the trip.

Ship your luggage ahead to your destination.

The added cost of around $40 per bag is money well spent considering the long lines at the check in that is now the norm in most airports. You save time also as you don't have to wait at the baggage claim area.

Though this would entail additional expenses, this is an option you might want to look into depending on your circumstances. Check out Virtual Bellhop, Sports Express, and the Luggage Company. FedEx and UPS Ground also offer these services.

Travel light.

Take only the things that you will need during your vacation, and plan on buying some at your destination. This will allow you to bring only a carry on bag and breeze through check in.

For a complete list of allowed carry-on items, check out this link from the TSA.

These three tips would help you avoid lost luggage problems, but if this is not applicable to you, there's more in the following page.

To avoid lost luggage problems, plan ahead on what you will need for a particular trip to avoid inconvenience and delays.

Have a nice trip.

If you can avoid it, don't bring or check-in an expensive luggage. It is an invitation to steal it.

For sturdy, inexpensive, and reliable luggages and bags, check out Amazon.com.