The quickest way to ruin your holiday is to lose your luggage. On the way out, it’s a disaster. On the way back home, it’s a downer.

So protect your luggage with these handy tips...

1. Write your name, address and phone number on an index card and slip it into your luggage. That way, if the tag on the outside of your luggage falls off, the airline staff can still identify it. (Airport staff always check inside lost bags).

2. Write the exact size, colour and make of your bags on an index card and keep it in your wallet. The person working at lost luggage will pinpoint your bag faster with this information.

3. Photocopy your holiday itinerary and leave it in a visible place inside your bag. This way, anyone who finds your luggage can track you down and return it to you.

4. Take a courtesy matchbox or complimentary slip from each hotel you stay in. It's an easy way to record the telephone number and address of each place you’ve stayed at. And it'll be easier for you to find any items you may have left behind.

Personalise your luggage with a bright sticker or ribbon. Other travellers will be less likely to grab your bag by mistake, and you'll retrieve your bags from the carousel much faster.

Happy travels!

Pascale Barrow
Managing Editor of Personal & Finance Confidential
 
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