Tips to Avoid a Lost or Delayed Bag

If you’ve ever stood by the baggage carousel watching everyone else’s suitcases roll by but not your own, I feel you. I’ve had that sinking feeling too—when your bag seems to have decided it needed an extra layover somewhere exotic.

The truth is, even though U.S. airlines misplace about two million bags every year (according to NPR), that’s less than half a percent of all checked luggage—and most of those wayward bags do find their way home. Still, when it’s your bag, statistics don’t help much. So, let’s stack the odds in your favor.

Here are some of my favorite travel advisor–approved tips for keeping your luggage on track and reducing the stress if things go sideways.

Arrive early and let your bag “check in” too

Your suitcase needs time to make it through the airport system just like you do. Airlines usually stop accepting checked bags 45–60 minutes before takeoff, but long summer lines can slow everything down. I always tell clients: give your bag the same grace period you’d give yourself to get through security and grab a coffee.

Take a peek at your baggage tag

Before your suitcase disappears down the belt, make sure the airport code on the tag matches your destination. It sounds obvious, but I’ve seen it happen more than once where one wrong letter sends a bag to another city entirely. Keep the small sticker the agent hands you—it’s your lifeline if the bag goes missing.

Fewer connections = fewer chances to lose your bag

When possible, go for nonstop flights. Every extra handoff is a chance for your luggage to get mixed up. If a layover is unavoidable, build in breathing room—at least 90 minutes. If you’d have to sprint to make your next gate, your bag probably won’t make it either.

Pack your “just in case” essentials in your carry-on

Even if you’re checking luggage, pack one outfit, medications, and anything valuable in your carry-on. That way, if your checked bag takes the scenic route, you’ll still have what you need for a day or two. (And if you can go carry-on only, even better—no baggage claim roulette required!)

Track your bag like a pro

Most airlines now scan and update bag status in their apps, but I recommend an Apple AirTag or similar tracker. It gives you peace of mind and helps the airline locate it faster if it goes astray. Bonus tip: Apple’s “Share Item Location” feature even lets some airlines see your tracker’s location directly.

Make your bag stand out

Picture hundreds of black suitcases on a luggage cart—it’s like finding a needle in a haystack. Add a bright luggage tag, colorful strap, or ribbon so yours stands out. I also slip a card with my name, phone, and email inside the bag in case the outer tag goes missing.

Keep your receipts if your bag is delayed

If your luggage doesn’t arrive when you do, report it right away. You’re entitled to reimbursement for “reasonable expenses” (like clothing and toiletries) while you wait—usually around $50 per day for a few days, and up to $4,700 total for domestic flights. Keep every receipt; it makes the claims process so much easier.

Final thoughts

Lost or delayed luggage is one of those travel hiccups that’s stressful in the moment but preventable more often than not. With a little preparation—arriving early, tagging your bag, and tracking it—you can avoid most issues or handle them calmly when they happen.

When I help clients plan their journeys, we talk about these kinds of details—the small things that make a big difference in keeping travel smooth. Because the goal isn’t just to get you where you’re going—it’s to get everything there with you.

If you’d like help preparing for your next trip (or just want to travel without the worry), I’d love to help you plan it. We’ll make sure the only thing getting lost on your journey is your sense of time.

Source: “Tips to Avoid a Lost or Delayed Bag,” Going.com, June 4, 2025.

Lost or Delayed Bag