There’s always a certain sense of dread when you’re waiting at the baggage claim carousel. Is my suitcase damaged? Is it delayed? Or worse still, is my luggage lost? When you check a bag you are trusting the airline to get it back to you at your final destination. You don’t want your vacation ruined because your luggage was lost. And even if it happens on your return flight home, it’s still a hassle to file claims and replace everything. The good news is that airlines are losing less bags than ever. But, it doesn’t hurt to take extra steps to help keep track of your luggage. Here are our tips to safeguard your baggage.
Download your airlines app
Some airlines are better than others when it comes to keeping you notified, but it won’t hurt to have their app ready. American Airlines has a baggage system that alerts you when your bags are loaded, when they arrive at the airport, and when they are unloaded. This can help you track down your bags if they don’t show up on the carousel with everyone else’s. It can also give you peace of mind if they tell you your bags are just delayed and not lost.
Fill out your luggage tag (and get one if you don’t have one!)
We see so many travelers with luggage tags on their bags that have no information filled out on them. This is the very first thing that’s used to identify your bag if it gets lost. If you don’t have a luggage tag, get one and secure it to your bag before your next trip.
Pack a copy of your contact information and itinerary
While luggage tags are a good first step, they may detach during the loading or unloading process. Fill out a large piece of paper with your name and contact information. You can also add your hotel details. Place this paper on top of your luggage right before you close it.
Make your luggage stand out
It would be awful if the airline handled your luggage correctly and got it to you, only to have another traveler mistake it for theirs. (If this happens, that’s when your contact information and itinerary in the suitcase is key). Help prevent that possibility by making your suitcase unique. Add a brightly colored ribbon, double knotted of course, slap on some stickers, or use colorful duct tape to mark it as yours.
Plan to arrive early
TSA recommends arriving two hours prior to a domestic flight and three hours prior for an international trip. This isn’t just a helpful guideline for getting through security. Arriving at the airport early ensures that you’re giving the airline enough time to process your luggage. Most airlines will specify how close to a departure time they’ll accept your checked bag. And remember that’s the time when you physically hand off your bag at the counter. It doesn’t count if you got into the line before the cut off period. Keep this is mind when you’re booking your offsite airport parking.
Try to avoid short connections
Your bags are more likely to go missing if you have a short connection time, especially at a large airport such as Chicago O’Hare International. The handlers need enough time to unload your luggage and transfer it to your connecting flight. 90 minutes is usually enough time for domestic flights to give yourself a little wiggle room if your first flight is delayed.
Take a photo of your baggage claim ticket
The tracking number and information on your baggage claim ticket is what you’ll need if your luggage is lost or delayed. Take a photo of it. Trust us.
Things to remember
These are good tips to follow even if you’re packing a carry-on. Why? Because without priority boarding you may find yourself gate checking your bag especially during the holiday season. Wear any valuable jewelry you’re taking with you if you can. Important items such as glasses, medications, and laptops should be packed in your personal item to guarantee they stay with you.
Self Park FLL is home to the best economy parking for Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Our free shuttles, fenced lot, and friendly team make us the perfect choice for your FLL airport parking reservations. Reserve our cheap airport parking now so you can park yourself and keep your keys!
