Packing

Securing Your Luggage

Recently, a Yale Student sued US Airways over a lost Xbox 360, claiming damages in the amount of $1 million. That, and commentary on our overly litigious society aside, it prompted us to suggest a few things to keep your possessions safe when you travel.

The first, and most important tip in regards to keeping your possessions safe is to never let them out of your sight. This may seem obvious. But don’t part with anything you can afford to lose. Things like jewelry, electronics, priceless family heirlooms…if you must take them on the plane, carry them in your suitcase. If they must go somewhere, think of shipping them. We’ve never been quite sure why the package shipping industry feels they can take care of your possessions, while the travel industry doesn’t. Perhaps the travel industry doesn’t feel it has the incentive to do so.

You can insure your luggage through the purchase of travel insurance, but they also limit liability on valuables. Be sure to read your policy, should you buy one. Luggage liability by the airline is limited by the government and you have to have some sort of proof. Most people don’t walk around with receipts for everything they bought.

Chris Elliott, who writes a Travel Troubleshooter column, wrote a few months ago his tips for ensuring the TSA doesn’t steal your stuff. Not only do we have to worry about the airline employees, but government agents. Since it was created in 2001, the agency has fired about 200 employees accused of stealing. He adds the following important points we’ve gotten out of his writing.

  • Locks, TSA or otherwise are useless, don’t even bother. Look at the above video to show you how easy it is to open a standard suitcase.
  • Locked or unlocked, keep your valuables close. Don’t let the TSA alone with anything.

So, when it comes to securing your luggage, there is no foolproof way to do so. We recommend the following precautions to minimize risk.

  • Make sure your suitcase is sturdy and in good condition. Suitcases are thrown, sent on conveyers, and generally mishandled. A rugged piece will survive all of that with minimal damage
  • The only thing locks are good for is slowing down potential theft at the security checkpoint, and possibly slowing it down elsewhere. A bag is not safer without them.
  • When passing through a checkpoint, try to enter the metal detector at roughly the same time your bag goes through, to ensure your possessions are out of your sight for as little time as possible.
  • Take a Picture of your Suitcase and its Contents before leaving…in case you have to make a claim.
  • Bring your valuables with you. Do not check anything you can’t bear to lose. You can always buy more clothes, and most thieves don’t want them anyway.
Related articles by Zemanta
Reblog this post [with Zemanta]