A recent study revealed that reports of lost or stolen bags have increased over the past year, while reports of damaged bags have decreased. In fact, more than 26 million bags were reported to have been mishandled (luggage that is lost, damaged, or destroyed) over the past year, the highest number reported since 2013. Sarah Webber, Director of Marketing InsureMyTrip  shares more tips on this.

Having your luggage mishandled during a trip can be a frustrating experience, but there are steps you can take to address the situation and minimize the impact on your travel plans.

Keep important documents
Keep copies of all important documents such as your boarding pass, baggage claim tags, and any receipts related to your lost belongings. These documents may be required for insurance claims or reimbursement.

Check compensation policies
Airlines have specific policies regarding lost luggage compensation. Depending on the circumstances, they might offer reimbursement for essential items while you’re without your luggage. Keep in mind that compensation policies can vary by airline.

File an insurance claim
If you have travel insurance that covers lost luggage, you can file a claim with your insurance provider. Not all insurance policies cover lost luggage, so it’s important to review your policy before traveling and understand the coverage it provides.

 To pack in case your luggage gets lost, consider these tips:

• Keep carry-on essentials: Pack essential items like medications, a change of clothes, toiletries, and important documents (passport, ID, travel itinerary) in your carry-on bag. This ensures you have the basics even if your checked luggage is lost.
• Use luggage tags: Attach clear, durable luggage tags with your contact information to your bags. However, it’s advised that you don’t keep your home address on luggage. If your baggage is stolen, you don’t want that important information to fall into the wrong hands. Instead, label your luggage with your name, airline, and flight number.
• Use unique luggage: Choose luggage that stands out, either due to its color or design. This can help you identify your bags more easily andprevent mix-ups.