Many vacationers and frequent fliers often use clever tricks to make traveling less stressful, such as opting for vibrant and unique suitcases. While having a standout luggage piece can help in spotting it on the carousel, experts are now cautioning that it might attract unwanted attention from thieves.
According to travel specialist Andrea Platania from Transfeero, although people think having a distinct suitcase is a wise choice, it’s actually safer to blend in with ordinary luggage. She advises that instead of flashy designs, travelers should opt for inconspicuous options to avoid drawing potential thieves’ eyes.
To make luggage easily identifiable without standing out, incorporating subtle personal touches like ribbons, stickers, or markers can help travelers quickly spot their bags without making them an obvious target for theft. Andrea emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between recognition and not drawing undue attention.
For added security and to tone down conspicuous designs, travelers can consider using plain-colored covers on their bags. Andrea also suggests securing luggage with even a basic padlock, as it can deter opportunistic thieves looking for easy targets.
To prevent leaving bags behind, it’s advisable to keep track of all belongings, especially in busy environments like airports. Additionally, travelers can enhance security by placing affordable tracking devices using GPS or Bluetooth inside their luggage. Taking detailed photos of bags before traveling can also facilitate the process of filing police reports or insurance claims if necessary.
Regarding insurance coverage, travelers are advised to confirm if their policy includes belongings outside their home. If not, they should consider supplementing with travel insurance that offers baggage protection to avoid unexpected expenses in case of loss or theft. Promptly reporting theft incidents to the appropriate authorities, such as the British Transport Police or the airline, can increase the chances of recovering lost items and streamline the insurance claim process.
