I'm a travel expert and this is what you should do to avoid your bags going missing

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info As the festive season approaches, it's worth remembering that every year thousands of people travel nationally and internationally to reunite with loved ones, and unfortunately, thousands of bags are lost or misplaced daily.

If you want to avoid your luggage disappearing just before Christmas, then booking as direct a flight as possible is key, according to experts at 1st Move International removals. Most baggage losses occur during international flights, particularly those with layovers during busy periods, due to the increased risk of transferring luggage from one plane to another. To minimise this risk, try to book direct flights.



If a layover can't be avoided, opt for a longer one, giving staff more time to transfer your luggage and reducing the chance of errors. It's also crucial to remove any old luggage tags or stickers from your bag to prevent confusion among airport staff. If your bag does go missing, you can be prepared by leaving a slip of paper inside your luggage with your contact details and travel itinerary, allowing airport staff to contact you more easily.

This acts as an additional security measure in case your luggage tag falls off or is damaged during the journey. Another handy tip is to take a quick snap of your luggage before you depart. This can be a game-changer if your bag goes missing, providing airport staff with a reference image to aid in its identification and swift return, reports the Mirror .

It's also prudent to pack a few days' worth of essential items in your carry-on. Crucial items like medication should always be kept in your hand luggage to avoid any potential issues should your checked bag get lost..