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Lost Baggage Tips
October 5, 2007 | Permalink
After a long, possibly delayed, or even overcrowded flight, where you have been forced to check your bag because of that full-size shampoo you carry, there may be nothing worse than realizing your luggage is not at baggage claim. Lost baggage is piling up in the US, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that more than 1 million pieces of baggage were lost, damaged, stolen, or delayed between May and July this year. There may be no guarantees, but you can take steps to try to lessen the likelihood that your baggage is lost.
Label your bag - Write your name on the outside and inside of your bags. Make sure all tags are correct and secure. Labeling is crucial because if you ever wanted to know where that lost baggage that no one claims goes, some shopping sites would be happy to sell it to you.
Check-in on time - Make sure there is plenty of time before your flight and between connections so your baggage can keep up.
Pack smart - Put valuables in your carry-on bags. On domestic flights, the airline baggage liability is capped at around $3,000 per person so keep a list of the valuables in your bag so that when the airline asks, you don't forget anything valuable. Also, keeping a change of clothes in your carry-on when going to a different climate can at least ensure that your trip is not a total wash.
Check the baggage policy - Every airline has baggage policies you should be familiar with before your trip. Once you've left the baggage claim area, your claim is no longer with the airline, but with the police. Make sure you get a written claim for damages. When filing a report, many airlines will give you a claim number and ask that you call or write the airline within 21 to 45 days.
Get travel insurance - This can be your safest bet against lost luggage. Even if your lost baggage can't be recovered, at least you can take comfort that you are covered.
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