Take a Few Precautions Now to Make Sure Your Luggage Goes Where You Go on Your Next Flight

Limiting connections, watching your bags, and removing old tags are some things that can help

Losing your luggage can derail even the smoothest trip. Airlines mishandle fewer than 1 bag per 1,000 passengers, but tight connections, staffing shortages and human error still result in thousands of delayed or lost bags every day. By investing a few minutes before you fly, choosing flights strategically, tagging bags properly and using modern tracking tools—you greatly reduce the chance your suitcase ends up in another city. If the worst happens, these steps make it far easier to recover your belongings quickly.

Fly Direct So Your Luggage Flies Direct

Booking nonstop flights is the single most effective way to keep baggage with you. Each connection adds handling: unloading, scanning, sorting and reloading your bag. Even with generous layovers, tight gates and last-minute crew changes can result in your luggage missing the onward flight. If you must connect, build in at least 60 minutes on domestic itineraries and 90 minutes on international routes. Many major airports now offer through-checked bags that bypass certain security checks, but you still risk delays when switching terminals or airlines.

Make Sure Your Luggage Gets Checked-In

At the check-in desk or kiosk, stay with your bag until the agent prints and applies the tag. Verify that the airport code matches your destination. If you see a London tag on a flight to Miami, swap it out before you walk away. On mobile check-in, review the digital tag in your airline app and confirm it matches the physical tag. Many carriers now let you scan the bag tag barcode with your phone to track progress in real time through the airline’s app.

Apply Your Tags Carefully

When printing tags at a kiosk or with a handheld scanner, apply them to the main handle area or strap so they remain visible and less prone to tearing. Use clear plastic tag protectors or luggage tag sleeves to shield paper slips from moisture and abrasion. Ensure both the barcode and the city code are fully exposed. If you wrap a sticker across a seam or buckle, it may peel off during handling.

Check In Early

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure on most airlines. Aim to tag checked bags as soon as the airport counters open, typically two to three hours before a domestic departure and three to four hours for international flights. Early check-in gives ground crews maximum time to sort, screen and load your bags. It also improves your chance to select overhead bin space for carry-ons, reducing the need to gate-check your bag at the jet bridge.

Make Sure Nothing Protrudes

Bags with loose straps, exterior pockets or hanging decorations can snag on conveyor belts and chutes, tearing off tags or jamming machinery. Tuck in all handles, straps and zippers before handing off. Use luggage straps or compression wrap to secure bulky pockets. If you carry a garment bag or duffel, bundle excess material inside the main compartment so nothing catches in the sorting system.

Don’t Forget Your Own Tag

Airline tags can detach or become illegible; your own durable tag or luggage card provides a backup. Include your name, mobile phone and email, avoid listing your home address for security. Place a duplicate tag or business card inside the bag in a clear pocket. If your bag arrives without an external tag, agents can open it to find your info internally and reunite you faster. Also keep your baggage claim receipt until you retrieve your suitcase.

Stand Out From the Crowd

Plain black or navy bags blend in on carousels. Add a brightly colored ribbon, strap or sticker to the handle so you spot your bag at a glance. Some travelers use reflective tape or custom decals. Distinctive markings also deter others from grabbing your suitcase by mistake. For additional protection, attach a Bluetooth or GPS tracker, devices such as Apple AirTag or Tile mate easily slip into pockets and update location via nearby smartphones.

Remove Old Tags

Tags from past trips can mislead handlers into sending your bag to the wrong destination. Peel off all paper labels, barcodes and airline stickers before packing. Even faint remnants can confuse automated scanners that read old codes. If residue remains, clean surfaces with rubbing alcohol so new tags adhere smoothly.

Upgrade Your Luggage

Smart luggage with built-in tracking and weight sensors can alert you when your bag exceeds airline limits or moves out of range. Look for TSA-approved lock systems that allow security to open for inspection without damaging your bag. Choose durable polycarbonate shells or ballistic nylon with reinforced corners to withstand rough handling. Some premium brands include removable power banks for charging devices, just verify battery capacity complies with airline rules (typically under 100 Wh for carry-on batteries).

Ship It Instead of Checking

For bulky or high-value items, shipping ahead via courier can be faster and more reliable than airline baggage handling. Ground services like UPS Ground or FedEx Home Delivery often cost $150 to $170 for a 100 lb box coast-to-coast, compared with $200 or more in oversized baggage fees. Shipping includes door-to-door tracking, insurance options and guaranteed delivery windows. For international moves, specialized services can manage customs clearance and provide full-value protection for fragile items.

Understand Your Rights and Insurance

If your bag is delayed or lost, report it immediately at the airline’s baggage service office, usually located just past the carousel. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and keep your reference number. Under the Montreal Convention, airlines are liable for up to 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (about $1,700) per passenger for lost or damaged baggage on international flights. Domestic limits vary by carrier but often cap around $3,800 per bag. If you purchased travel insurance or hold a credit card with baggage delay or loss coverage, submit your airline claim first, then follow up with your insurer for reimbursement of essentials and declared bag value.

North Carolina Airport Tips

Travelers departing from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) can use the airport’s AutoTrain baggage services for valet check-in directly from the rental car center. Raleigh-Durham International (RDU) offers bag tracking through its mobile app, which notifies you when your baggage is on the carousel. If you do encounter a problem, contact the airport’s lost-and-found at the airline’s Baggage Service Office or call the CLT Baggage Services at 704-359-4010.

By planning ahead, choosing nonstops when possible, tagging and tracking proactively, and knowing your legal protections—you ensure your luggage arrives with you. These simple precautions add only minutes to your pre-flight routine but save hours of worry and hassle if your bag goes astray. Travel confidently, knowing you’ve done everything to keep your belongings on track.