06/19/2023
U. S. airlines mishandled 1.8 million checked bags last and MY bag was one of them! The things I wish I knew..
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LUGGAGE check out the link in my bio under "Services" for an email complaint template to an airline or hotel):
- PACK CAREFULLY: Never pack breakable or irreplaceable items in our checked luggages if you can avoid it. If you must, wrap them properly to ensure they make it safely to your destination.
Secure your bag with a TSA-friendly lock: they can steal your items during transit if you leave your bag unprotected and it can be hard to prove.
PROTECTIVE COVERS: A simple way to guard your luggage from scratches and dings is to buy a protective sleeve to cover your bag. It works great when you buy the right size for your luggage.
• Sign up for bag tracking: Airlines are getting better at tracking your bag at every stage of the trip, and some carriers, like Delta, will let you do this yourself through their app. You can also buy a tracking GPS device like AirTags and Tile tags and place them in your bag so you can see their location in real time on your phone.
E KNOW YOUR BAG RIGHTS: In the U.S., the airlines are liable for up to $3,500 in compensation for lost or damaged baggage--and that's for the cost of the luggage itself and all the contents. On international flights, the limits is set at about $1,600 per checked item. Make sure to contact the airline within 24h to report any damaged or lost bag issues and file your claim right away.
(Stats from the Air Travel Consumer report)