Traveling Safely With Your Very Own Luggage

You’re ready for the big trip. You’ve got your tickets, wallet, and glasses and a tote full of light reading. But before you step out your door, here’s some important things to know about your luggage and traveling safely.

Check the condition of your luggage, looking for small tears in the fabric or around the seams. Check for broken parts and fix or replace any parts that may interfere with your luggage doing its best job. If you didn’t buy the cheapest luggage out there, you won’t have to worry as much about broken zippers, ripped seams and other factors that can make or break your trip. Stay away from luggage that sets you apart from others by being gaudy, fancy, gold-trimmed or in some other way puts a big red target on your belongings for airport thieves.

If you stick with basic black luggage, how will you be able to spot your luggage at Baggage Claim? Tie a bright scarf around the handle, or buy luggage tags that are brightly colored so you can spot your luggage and others won’t mistake it for theirs. Even better, thieves are not likely to nab the more distinctive bag, but would rather walk away with anonymous luggage.

Airlines today allow 2 bags per passenger with a maximum weight of 50 lbs. If you were planning on carrying one overweight bag (weigh it at home), you’d be better off traveling with two bags of lesser weight. You’ll endure more stress at the airport, but will avoid paying the excess weight fees airlines impose on overweight luggage. European airlines operate differently and some only allow 33 lbs.

Mark your luggage well with your ID. You’ll be glad you did if they are lost. You may also want to think about leaving a copy of your itinerary inside your luggage. If your bags are lost, airport personnel will have a good idea of where you are.

More likely than not, your luggage will be subject to TSA scanning. To help you get through this with a minimum of fuss, pack your items in clear plastic organizers. Place delicate items in sturdy, reusable packing, not wrapped up in your clothing. Make it easy for personnel to repack your item quickly and neatly.

With some savvy organization and a thoughtful planning ahead, you can ensure a safe and fun trip.