Your Checked-In Bags Are Not As Safe As You Think

Has it ever happened that when you’ve traveled, you lost probably a brush or a mobile phone charger which you know you packed in your bag? Could it even be possible that it was stolen during check-in? Sad to say, it is a possibility and stolen things from checked bags are on a rise.

According to reports from CNN, the Transportation Security Administration saw 30,621 claims of missing valuables from 2010 to 2014, equaling a total property loss of $2.5 million. This prompted the agency to send in ‘bait bags’ between 2013 and 2014 just to catch airport workers stealing from the luggage of passengers.

Getting valuables stolen from your luggage can be stressful. Counting on airport authorities and the agencies can be quite taxing as well. So what do you do when you find out that your things are missing from your checked-in bag? Check out our version of the to-do list below:

CONFIRM your valuable is missing

Check your bag once again, and go to the airport’s lost and found department just to ensure that your item is definitely missing. If you’ve gone through this procedure and find that your item is nowhere to be found, then be ready for a possible long process.

File a report

It is essential that you file the proper reports with the police, airport security and even the transport agency. Make sure to file the report within 24 hours of the incident. Ask help from the airport police on filing the report with the proper authorities.

File a claim with the airline.

The Department of Transportation requires that airlines compensate passengers for any mishandled luggage. The amount normally depends on the policies of this agency per country. Do note however, that mishandled bags mean “damaged” or “lost” and does not necessarily mean “stolen from” a bag. Remember that in essence, your airline of choice is not responsible for the loss of your item.

Check with your insurance or credit card company

There are instances when your insurance or credit card company can compensate for stolen luggage or any missing valuable from your bag. It is important that you check the policy of your insurance so you can maximize its use.

Don't get anything stolen in your luggage

If it’s valuable, don’t include them in your checked luggage. Bring them with you in your carry-on, and watch them like a hawk. You might want to try a luggage zip tie, so you have an idea whether your bag has been opened or not. Get travel insurance too, one that has a policy that covers your valuables.

No one likes to get things stolen especially when traveling, because it’s such a hassle. Remember to keep safe and
be extra careful with your things when going on a trip.