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Checking your valuable items in your bag doesn’t guarantee they will be safe through the entire flight. There have been thousands cases of damaged or lost items file at various airports. Surprisingly, 40% of the files were denied. Checking a bag is crucial part when it comes to travel. There are many pitfalls that might happen to you when checking your bag so you need to make sure your luggage arrive in one piece. 

What To Do When Checking A Bag At The Airport

How to ensure your bag will arrive safely in one piece?

The very obvious thing to do is to not pack your valuables in your checked bag. There have been many travelers who still keep their valuables in their checked bags such as watches, cameras, golden rings, iPads, etc. Those are expensive and have been reported being stolen from traveler’s luggage. Hence, do not pack them in your checked bag but in your carry-on or backpack. If you buy pricey souvenirs from your trip, pack them in your carry-on or ship them if they are too large or heavy. 

Do not pack items that are on the list of prohibited items on the TSA. It is important what items you should and should not pack in your bag be it carry-on or suitcase. For example, lithium batteries used in cameras should be packed in your carry-on. To ensure that you pack properly, double-check the TSA’s list of prohibited items before checking your bag. 

Use only TSA-approved lock to secure your bag. If you use non-TSA approved one then it will be ripped off your bag. It is as simple as that so make sure to follow the rule. It is easy to find lock that is approved by TSA. Therefore, it will be easier for the security officers to open the lock with their master key. It makes checking process goes smoothly as well. 

Avoid getting your belonging spilled or leaked from your checked bag. Always double-check your bag from home and when it is going to be checked at the airport security. Also, do not put liquid in a bad spot. At least cushion your liquids to avoid leak or spill incidents. Make sure every pocket and compartment is zipped and fastened securely. It is strongly suggested to not leave anything hanging outside of your bag. Dangling items can get caught easily on the conveyor belt at the airport. It can end up with your bag damaged or your items lost. 

It is best to avoid booking  a tight connecting flight. It is too risky because with such short time, there is bigger chance your bag won’t make it to the final destination with you. Shorter layover can cause you anxiety because you keep worrying whether or not your bag will make it. Hence, it is best to avoid booking tight connection. At least book connecting flights with two hours transfer period. This way you can reclaim and recheck your bag before getting into your next flight without hassle.