AIRLINE passengers should avoid leaving old luggage tags on their checked bags as it could cause a travel disaster, according to an executive at a tech company specializing in luggage loss prevention.
Losing your luggage is one of the biggest travel nightmares, especially after a long flight, but there are steps you can take to help mitigate that risk.
Yohanna Isis, the head of marking at the luggage tracking tech company GEGO, told The U.S. Sun in an exclusive interview that it is important to make sure your luggage is not holding onto any flight information from your last trip.
"Before checking in your bags, remove any old baggage tags or stickers from previous trips," the travel expert said.
"This reduces the chances of confusion and ensures that the correct destination information is displayed on your luggage."
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Yohanna said it is also good to cross-check the information on your luggage with your ticket.
"When retrieving your checked luggage at your destination, always verify that the baggage claim tag matches the information on your ticket," Yohanna said.
"Double-check the tag's number, color, or any other distinguishing features to ensure you're picking up the correct bag."
Yohanna said passengers should also not assume that their checked bags are safe during transport.
"While airlines and transportation providers take precautions to handle luggage carefully, accidents can happen," the expert said.
Yohanna also advised travelers to choose luggage that can handle the journey to their destination.
"Don't assume that your bag will remain perfectly intact during transit," the expert said.
"Consider using durable luggage or protective covers to minimize the risk of damage."
Yohanna also gave some tips when it comes to packing your carry-on and checked bags.
"Pack your most important and valuable items, such as medications, travel documents, electronics, and valuable jewelry, in a carry-on bag," the expert said.
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"This ensures that even if the checked luggage is lost, you still have your essential belongings with you."
While there is tech out there to help you track your luggage like the GEGO GPS, it is important to be prepared for anything, so Yohanna also listed things to avoid tucking away in your checked bags.
"Avoid placing essential documents like passports, IDs, travel itineraries, or valuable items such as jewelry, electronics, or cash in your checked luggage," the expert said.
"Keep these items with you in your carry-on bag to minimize the risk of loss or theft."