The Essentials

Tips for Checked Bags

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it now again.

 

In my book, there are only two kinds of airline bags — carry-on and lost.

 

But if you’re on vacation, chances are you don’t have a choice, and you need to check a bag or two.

 

And this summer, airline staff shortages aren’t just with pilots but with baggage handlers as well.

 

So it’s how you pack your checked bags that can often make the difference.

 

First, take a photo of your bag before you leave. That will give you a visual record to share if your bag is missing. Then, split your clothing between two bags. That way if one gets lost, you still have something to wear.

 

And third, don’t assume your bag was even loaded onto the plane.

 

Before you board — at the gate — show your barcoded bag tags to the agent.

 

Most bags are scanned when they are loaded, and the agent can then confirm — before you ever walk down that jetway — that your bags are on the plane.