How to prevent your luggage from going missing

How often does luggage get lost? Probably more than you think.

We don’t know anyone that dreams of starting their vacation at the lost luggage desk, describing a suitcase that looks like everyone else’s: “It’s black, sort of cuboid, and it’s got wheels.”  And yet, every year, millions of bags decide to take solo adventures without their owners. Whether it’s a tight layover or a tired baggage handler, the reasons vary — but the result is always the same: you arrive bagless, wondering how long you’ll be wearing the clothes you set off in.

The good news? There are plenty of easy tricks to help your luggage make it to your destination. And if your bag does wander off? We’ve got a smart solution that doesn’t involve shouting into the airport void.

Go bold with your bag
Black suitcase? You and every other traveler. A standout bag is easier to spot and less likely to be taken by accident. Go bright. Go wild. Add a neon luggage strap, a giant alpaca sticker, or a tag that says “NOT YOUR BAG.” Your future self — waiting by the carousel — will thank you.

Ditch the connection chaos
Tight layovers are basically a game of “will my bag make it?” Spoiler: sometimes it won’t. If you can, book flights with a buffer. Airlines might be able to sprint you to your gate, but your bag? It moves at baggage-handler speed. Which is… not fast.

Label everything — inside and out
We’re not talking ironing-your-socks levels of detail. Just make sure your luggage is clearly labeled. Bag tags can fall off, so stick a copy of your contact details and itinerary inside your case too. Bonus points if you add a destination address. Help the airline play matchmaker — so you and your bag can be reunited like the true love story you are. 

Take a photo of your bag
Just remember to take a photo before it gets lost. Why? Because “medium-sized, with handles” won’t get you far. Your photo is way better than your memory — and it speaks fluent suitcase.

Keep valuables in your carry-on
This is really simple and something you can control. Meds, chargers, a clean shirt, your emotional support hoodie — keep it all in your carry-on. Don’t give your suitcase custody of anything you can’t live without for a few days.

Know your airport’s baggage reputation
Some airports have a reputation for baggage chaos. If you’re flying through one of these hot mess hubs, take extra care. Label your bag. Take that photo. Whisper a quick prayer to the luggage gods. 🙏

Protect yourself with luggage insurance
Even seasoned travelers get burned by baggage blunders — that’s why AirHelp+ includes luggage insurance. If yours is lost or delayed, we’ll send you a fast €100 payout to help cover the essentials. No receipts, no drama. Just money in your pocket to help cushion the blow of a missing suitcase.

Final thought

Luggage is lost more often than most travelers expect, especially on international flights. But with the right tricks — and a little AirHelp+ magic — you can lower the odds and soften the impact. Because travel should be about memories, not mishaps. And your suitcase? It deserves to be part of the adventure, not the punchline.

Check out our AirHelp+ membership plans to protect your luggage and more.