Missing bags, lost documents, stolen cash… don't
let lost luggage spoil your overseas holiday. Just follow
our
guide to the looking after your luggage
. We'll help you enjoy the best the world has to
offer.
Don't forget your travel insurance
This is an important safety net – at least if
something does go wrong, you won't lose out
financially. And you'll have someone to help you
– no matter what time of day or night, wherever you
are – which is reassuring if you're struggling
to replace documents, credit cards or your camera in a
foreign country!
Protect your documents
Keep your passport with you at all times, or lock it up in
the hotel safe. Keep a photocopy of it in another part of
your luggage, and make a record of your passport number
somewhere else. Take photocopies of your visa and insurance
details too.
It's also worth keeping your passport in a waterproof
pouch if you're backpacking or taking a boat trip.
Secure your luggage
A simple sturdy padlock can deter thieves at the baggage
carousel. But make sure it meets new TSA regulations if
you're travelling through the US. Every bag is
screened there, and it may be physically inspected.
Make sure you label your bag inside and out, and colour tag
it with a roll of bright tape. You'd be surprised how
many people accidentally take the wrong black Samsonite
suitcase home with them.
Argh! What happened to my bag?
If your bag doesn't show up on the baggage carousel,
report it at the airline's office immediately.
Don't panic! Give them a good description of your bag
and a copy of your itinerary, so they can contact you and
deliver your bag when they find it.
Some airlines will give you an amenities kit to keep you
going while they find your bag – which could take a
few days. This is when you'll be really glad you got
that travel insurance, as you can replace some of your
clothing while you're waiting. Just check your policy,
or call the 24 hour emergency assistance line, for details.
If your bag does show up, but is damaged in any way, you
should also report it immediately. Make sure you get some
proof of this in writing, as you can claim the repairs on
your insurance.
Be cash-smart
Cash is one of the easiest things for thieves to steal. So
don't carry too much with you, and don't keep it
all in one place. You'll be able to access your bank
account through an ATM in most countries.
It's easier to replace a credit card than cash –
just make sure you also have a written record of your credit
card number and bank emergency phone number somewhere else
in your luggage. You can also store these details on your
phone, but make sure it's not obvious what they are.
After taking some simple precautions and organising your
travel insurance, you'll be prepared for all possible
situations. Then you can relax, and enjoy your overseas
adventures.
