There are few things worse than arriving at your destination, standing at the carousel and waiting… and waiting… and waiting but your bag never arrives.
After spending more of your time speaking to the airline, you then have to wait for it to be delivered to you and in the meantime, you have to find shops and buy essential items.
If it then doesn’t arrive when it should, you have to spend time chasing the airline – it’s time-consuming and stressful and can really impact your trip, whether it’s business or leisure.
These are our top tips to avoid your bag being delayed or lost and what to do if it is:
Plan Your Luggage Situation Effectively
- Strategic check-in: Instead of rushing to the airport check-in counter at the last minute, utilise online check-in services whenever possible. This allows you to complete the check-in process and print bag tags beforehand, reducing the time spent at the physical counter and minimising potential delays in baggage handling.
- Optimize luggage choices: Opt for a durable, lightweight luggage set designed specifically for business travel needs. Consider rolling suitcases with spinner wheels for effortless manoeuvrability through airports and train stations. These choices can ease stress and speed up your journey, minimizing the risk of luggage-related delays.
- Label for clarity: Clearly label your luggage with your name, permanent address, and contact information, including your email address. Consider using a combination of permanent marker and luggage tags for extra visibility. This enhanced identification makes it easier for airlines or baggage handling personnel to reunite you with your belongings in case of misplacement.
Embrace Technology for Luggage Tracking
- Luggage tracking devices: Use luggage tracking devices that connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth or GPS. These devices provide real-time updates on your luggage’s location, allowing you to monitor its progress and promptly identify any delays or misplacement.
- Apps for baggage tracking: Download airline-specific apps or third-party luggage tracking apps, such as DynoTag or Tracki GPS Tracker. These apps allow you to track your checked baggage and receive notifications about its status throughout the journey. If you’re an Apple user, why not pop an Apple AirTag in your suitcase? There are others available and all have different USP’s so if you are interested, I would recommend this article by Expert World Travel as a good place to start.
Prioritise Essential Items
- Essentials in hand luggage: Pack essential business attire, toiletries, medications, and any irreplaceable items in your carry-on luggage. This ensures you have immediate access to these necessities even if your checked baggage gets delayed or lost.
- Business documents and digital devices: Keep important business documents, laptops, and other electronic devices within reach in your carry-on luggage. These items are crucial for maintaining productivity and business continuity during your travel.
Prepare for Unexpected Delays
- Duplicate essentials: Carry a copy of important documents, such as your passport, ID, and travel itinerary, in your carry-on luggage. This provides a backup in case your checked baggage is delayed or lost, ensuring you have the necessary documentation for travel and business purposes.
- Emergency funds: Keep a small sum of emergency cash in your carry-on luggage, along with a backup credit or debit card. This provides immediate access to funds for unexpected expenses or travel delays.
Know Your Rights
- Report it missing: It is best to report your bag missing and fill out the relevant forms at the airport. It’s not a legal requirement but will make a claim a lot easier and will start the process of finding your bag. When applying for compensation, airlines will ask for a list of all the items in your bag and receipts for as much as possible.
- Make a list: Making this list as soon as possible will help make sure you don’t forget anything. If you are concerned you won’t remember, you could take a picture of your packed bag to help trigger your memory. Citizen’s Advice has some clear advice on the process and what you are entitled to.
By following these tips, today’s business traveller can effectively minimise the risk of baggage delays and ensure a smooth, organized, and hassle-free travel experience.
