Luggage is very important not only for jet setters and frequent travelers, but to all sorts of people. Choose a luggage that is sturdy, reliable and durable because this will be an important investment. You will never know when you have to go on a flight for an emergency business trip or anything. Bottom line is you always have to be ready with your luggage.
So now that you already have your own trusty luggage, all you need to do is pack up and have fun during the trip. But wait, there are some things you need to remember about keeping your luggage safe and sound. Keep in mind that luggage is one of the things that are frequently stolen or lost, and you would not want your precious investment to be lost or stolen, do not you?
Of course you do not. But do not worry, a missing or stolen luggage is not inevitable. In fact, it can be easily avoided. You can keep your luggage from these possibilities by following some basic tips provided in this article on how to keep your luggage safe while traveling.
Place identification tags
Identification tags are one of the most important things you need to remember to place on your suitcase before leaving. Place identification tags or cards that contain your name, your contact number, your home address and the address and contact number of the place you will be staying for the duration of the trip. Make sure it is sturdy, durable or waterproof or else your identification tag will be useless once it gets torn or wet.
Avoid tags that are made of paper but instead choose ones made of leather, metal and the like. It is also better if you buy an identification card that is not only durable but is also safe to use. If you want to protect your privacy, choose an identification card that has a cover so your name will not be visible to the world. Also, if it is possible, do not use your personal contact numbers and address but the one you use in business.
Pack something that will identify you
Identification does not need to be on the outside of the luggage. Sometimes it is safer if you opt to just pack something inside the luggage that will identify you as the rightful owner. This is very helpful in cases when the tag gets lost or someone kindly removes it. You can place a travel itinerary with your name on it and this will be of great help on how to trace you back.
You can actually pack any other things as long as your name and contact information are written. However, do not take the risk of packing important documents inside the luggage such as birth and marriage certificate. There is a chance that your luggage will not land in good hands and may steal your identity instead.
Buy a TSA- certified lock
Some people opt not to lock their bags anymore because these will be cut off and opened anyway for inspection. However, this puts your luggage in danger of being opened by people who are not supposed to check your bag. The solution? Invest in a safety lock that is certified by the TSA or the Transportation Security Administration.
The TSA has a master key to open these kinds of locks to inspect your bag. This way, they do not need to tear your bag open just to check it. Invest in one so that you can be assured that your things will be protected and your luggage will be properly handled, not ruined.
Take a photo of your luggage and things
Some people may think of this step as unnecessary but if you take a picture of your luggage (with you making a peace sign) and the things inside each bag before the trip, this will be of great help when you need to be identified as the Owner of the bag. This is helpful especially in cases where the identification is lost or stolen and no other things inside the luggage can point to you as the owner.
Make an inventory
If taking a picture is not possible, see to it that you make a list of all the bags and all the items inside it that you packed for the trip. Keep it in your pocket and carry it always with you. This inventory will help you be sure whether you have a missing bag or item. This will also be helpful in cases when you may need to claim compensation for the lost items. Leave another copy at home.