Photo: Shutterstock The rate of lost luggage (both found and subsequently not found) worldwide is approximately 0.49%, or if you prefer, 4.9 suitcases per 1,000 passengers.
The number may be low, but during the hot travel season, when many more bags are shipped, the chance of them not finding their destination increases. Therefore, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the chances of your bag reaching its destination safely.
As you may have noticed, your suitcase is shipped tagged with the long sticker attached to the handle, but you will often also find small stickers on the sides of the suitcase. To avoid confusion and errors in the automated systems, be sure to remove all old stickers before sending your suitcase on your current trip.
Photo: ShutterstockAvoid sending a suitcase without labeling it with your contact information. If you forget, you can find notes at airline counters that allow you to do this on the spot. Remember to label it? Check from time to time if the details are still correct. If you have moved or changed your phone number, it is recommended that you do not be lazy and replace the tag.
In the suitcase sent to the belly of the plane, it is forbidden to pack portable chargers (Power Bank), rechargeable lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes, computers and computer chargers of all kinds, including tablets, and dangerous, sharp, flammable or toxic materials. The presence of these materials can delay the delivery of the suitcase, and airports do not take risks, and do not put problematic luggage on planes. And another little tip: avoid large bottles of liquid such as oils (although this is allowed, just so as not to ruin the entire contents of your suitcase.
One of the most important points when shipping luggage to the belly of the plane is the integrity of the suitcase. If the wheels are no longer what they once were, if the zippers don't close, if the fabric is torn or the plastic is broken, save yourself the heartache and say goodbye to the suitcase. A break or tear can worsen during loading and flight, and items can scatter and fall.
Photo: ShutterstockIn addition to these four rules, the Airport Authority asks passengers to avoid sending trolleys weighing less than 6 kg into the belly of the plane. While there is no problem loading them, in the hot season it will also burden and delay the airport staff, and - honestly - wouldn't you just want to get off the plane with the trolley and start your vacation without waiting for your suitcase to arrive?