Believe or not, 26 million checked bags went missing last year. But there are ways to avoid being a victim. Tight connection times, outsourcing and a number of other factors contribute to lost or misplaced bags.

There’s a new tool called the Trakdot Luggage tracker that goes inside your checked suitcase. It tells you exactly where your bag is in real time.

There’s a similar product called LugLoc, which tracks your bag from inside using GSM technology—like what cell phones use. And the battery lasts up to 40 days.

Of course, all these products come at a price…and a monthly fee. For a cheaper option, go with those luggage tracking IDs from Victorinox or Okoban. Register your tag, and if someone finds your lost bag, they can call a number and the company will reunite you with your bag.

None of these options are foolproof. After all, if the airline ships your bag to Boise instead of Boston, it’s up to them to get it back to you. So double check the airport code when you check it, and make sure you’ve got a luggage tag with your name and phone number clearly marked.

For more information, visit the Luggage archives.

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