Lost luggage is every traveler's nightmare. Unless you've been itching for a new wardrobe, it's the worst possible start to your timeshare vacation. Lost luggage complaints skyrocketed in 2006 and 2007, according to the Transportation Security Administration (see our Feb. 13 post). So what should you do if your luggage goes missing to ensure that your bags are returned? Follow these tips:
- Take pictures of all your belongings as you pack your bags. Make an inventory and keep it and all receipts for purchased items separate from your bag.
- Lock your bag with a TSA-approved lock. You can find approved locks at SafeSkiesLocks.com or TravelSentry.org.
- Tag everything. Put your name and contact information inside each bag as well as on the luggage tags. That way if the tag is torn off or damaged, airline personnel will still be able to identify your luggage. I find it easy to stick address labels onto index cards and slip them in my bag. All I have to add is my phone number.
- File a claim immediately if your bag goes missing. Don't leave your destination airport without filing a claim. The sooner the airline starts looking, the better the chance you'll be reunited with your luggage. Remember to ask if the airline will deliver your bags to you free.
- In addition to your airline claim, file a claim with the TSA as soon as possible. Claim forms can be downloaded from the TSA.gov website.
