Top Tips for Keeping Your Luggage Safe While Traveling to Orlando

Traveling to Orlando is a wonderful experience when things run smoothly. However, one aspect that can put a damper on your holiday is the worry of keeping your luggage's safe. Ensuring your belongings are secure while traveling abroad requires some preparation and vigilance. To help you navigate this concern, here are some valuable tips to keep your luggage safe and your mind at ease.

‘Some 26 million pieces of luggage were lost, delayed or damaged in 2022 - nearly eight bags in every 1,000.’ – BBC

Choose the Right Luggage: Before you even set foot in an airport, selecting the appropriate luggage can significantly impact your safety. Opt for bags that have sturdy zippers and locks. Hard-shell suitcases are more difficult to break into than soft ones, making them a great choice for added security.

Use TSA-Approved Locks: Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved locks are designed to allow security personnel to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock. This is crucial in case your luggage is subjected to a random security check. These locks can be opened with a master key, which prevents the need for cutting or breaking your lock.

Keep Valuables in Your Carry-On: Important documents, valuable items, medication, and electronics should always be carried in your carry-on bag. In the unfortunate event that your checked luggage is lost or delayed, having a change of clothes in your carry-on can save you from discomfort during the first day of your trip. This way, even if your checked luggage gets lost or delayed, your essentials remain with you. It may also be worth storing an outfit in the luggage of another member of your group in case your suitcase goes missing.

Utilise Luggage Tags: Place visible and durable luggage tags on the outside of your bags. Include your name, phone number, and email address. However, avoid using your home address to prevent potential thieves from knowing your house is empty.

GPS Trackers: More and more travellers are getting tech-savvy to keep an eye on their bags. The AirTag does its thing by sending out a Bluetooth signal that can be picked up by nearby devices in the ‘Find My’ network. These friendly gadgets then share the AirTag's location with iCloud, and voilà! You can hop over to the Find My app and see your stuff right there on a map.

Conceal Your Identity: While having your contact information on your luggage is important, it's also a good idea to put a card inside your bag with your name and contact details. This way, if your luggage tag gets ripped off or damaged, airport staff can still locate you.

Use Luggage Wrapping Services: Many airports offer luggage wrapping services that involve wrapping your suitcase in a protective plastic layer. This not only deters theft but also safeguards your luggage from damage during handling.

Stay Aware During Transit: Whether you're on a train, bus, or airport shuttle, always keep your luggage within sight. Thieves can take advantage of crowded spaces or your distraction to make off with your belongings.

Photos or printouts: it can’t hurt to take printouts of your important travel documents such as ESTAS and passports (in your hand luggage) to avoid delays if your phone doesn’t behave at the crucial moment. Make use of password protection software- don’t take sensitive information on printouts that might allow someone to steal your identity or defraud you. Security experts recommend password protection software such as Lastpass, Bitwarden, Apple keychain or Nordpass. These apps keep all your passwords and important information encrypted. Should you really need to access passport numbers, bank accounts or social security numbers whilst away you should be able to do so safely and securely on a smartphone using a password keeper with two-part authentication (providing you have stored them there in the first place of course). You can also store scans of documents safely in these apps.

Travel Insurance: Taking out travel insurance is a smart move to ensure peace of mind while traveling. It provides financial protection in case of trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or unexpected delays. Travel insurance can save you from unexpected expenses and help you focus on enjoying your trip worry-free.

Plan for Transfers: If you have layovers or transfers, ensure you have enough time to collect your luggage and check it in again. Rushing can increase the chances of your luggage being mishandled or lost in transit.

Pack Smart: Packing liquids and valuables in your suitcase requires careful consideration and preparation. To prevent spills and leaks, it's crucial to place liquid containers in sealed, leak-proof bags and ensure they comply with airline regulations for carry-on items. Fragile valuables should be wrapped in protective layers of clothing or soft items and positioned in the centre of the suitcase, surrounded by cushioning materials to prevent damage.

What happens if I do lose my luggage?

Should your luggage go missing, you will need to report that that your luggage has been lost, delayed or damaged at the airport and keep a copy of a “Property Irregularity Report” which staff of the airline will complete. In the event of a delay in your luggage, most airlines will also reimburse for essentials such as toiletries, underwear and laundry costs. Some airlines have a daily rate for this.

In the unlikely event that they do lose luggage completely, Airlines do have a responsibility to pay compensation with a maximum amount of £520 per passenger. Airlines will almost certainly insist on receipts for valuable items. You may well also be covered under your travel insurance.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly increase the safety of your luggage while traveling abroad. Remember that a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable journey.