Most of us will fly with at least one piece of carry-on luggage along with other luggage we have to check. Unfortunately, there are times that issues will arise in regards to your bags. Ideally, we want to never come in to contact with problems, but realistically, the best method is to do things to avoid them.

The following article is devised to provide suggestions and tips in relation to having a smooth, problem-free ride.

Banned items
Be sure to understand what is allowed to be brought on the plane and packed in your leather luggage. Airlines have become increasingly strict in recent times; some things that are not allowed are not so obvious. If you are bringing something that might be questionable, check out the airline’s Web site or call their customer service to be sure there will not be a problem.

Limits
Most airlines will allow you to bring two pieces of carry-on luggage and two articles of checked luggage. Any additional bags or items may cost you extra. A good rule is to get to the airport at least an hour before your flight leaves. This will give you ample time to check your luggage and make sure all your baggage is secured for the flight.

Limiting risk
There is a chance that checked luggage could be lost, stolen, damaged, delayed, etc. The following is not a set of solutions; but tips to help reduce the level of risk.
Only travel with carry-on luggage. If you are taking a short trip, try to get all of your things into one bag.

• Luggage usually goes through a conveyor belt. Rid your luggage of anything that may snag such as belts, straps, etc.
  
  
• Make your bag easy for the proper authorities to inspect.
  
  
• Some luggage sets look similar. Make your luggage distinguishable from the rest with an id tag or some other form of identification.
  
  
• Check the airline’s luggage tags. Make sure the gate agent places a tag on each piece of your luggage and it matches your baggage claim ticket. Also, make sure that you and your bags are going to the same destination.
  
  
• Fragile and expensive items should not be placed in your checked, hardside luggage, but in your carry-on bag. Airlines may compensate you for some things, but it is better to be safe. Keep all your valuables on your person- especially prescribed medication. You would not want to be stuck without your medicine if something was to happen to your luggage.
  
  
• Those who load luggage on and off the plane are not always delicately inclined. If you have a fragile item, put it in your carry-on bag. Even if wrapped and cushioned well, you are taking a chance putting fragile items in your checked luggage.

Labels: travel