If you’ve been on a plane more than once, chances are your luggage has been ‘misplaced’ at some point.

In the grand scheme of things, lost luggage is not a tragedy. But after a butt-numbing 20 hours in a plane (New Zealand to the UK, for example), you’re desperate for a shower and change of clothes. Not to mention exiting Heathrow as quickly as possible, and not filling out Lost Luggage forms while weeping into your itinerary.

Luggage goes missing for a variety of reasons: the airline misplaces it, someone mistakes it for their bag, or it falls off a trolley or luggage belt. Generally you won’t have to wait too long to get it back.

Preventing Lost Luggage Stress

• Buy a distinctive suitcase. I have pink. No one touches it. My black one used to go walkabout all the time…
• Don’t over-pack or check in luggage that is broken or worn. Check for loose straps etc that could get snagged on things.
• Label your luggage. Clear contact details. Put stickers all over it.
• Avoid checking in luggage if possible. If it’s a short trip, consider a carry-on bag only. Skip the queues.
• Hold onto your checked luggage ID tag. It’s usually a sticker on your ticket/boarding pass.
• Have travel insurance.
• Don’t pack precious items. Carry them!
• When picking up your luggage, hover near the beginning of the carousel. Sometimes bags fall off. Sometimes people let them.

When Your Luggage is Lost…

• Don’t panic. Most luggage turns up within 24 hours. Report the loss to the airline at the baggage terminal immediately, before you leave the airport. Fill in the forms with clear contact details and a clear description of the lost bag and its contents.
• If your luggage is damaged, most airlines will compensate you. Follow the process above.

Related Reading

• Lost luggage airline stats. It’s really not too bad. But to prevent any kind of delay or damage, I still recommend my tips above.