Is it worth getting a suitcase cover?

Is it worth getting a suitcase cover? Made of either stretchy elastic material or transparent PVC plastic, luggage covers help your suitcase stand out on a conveyor belt. They also protect luggage from scratches and scuffs and are better for the environment than cling wrap since they can be reused.

Do hard suitcases scratch easily?

A hardshell suitcase is typically better than a softside bag for protection (as long as your items are packed safely inside, too). However, all hardshell materials are prone to getting scuffed, scratched, or possibly cracked more so than with fabric suitcases.

Is it okay to not lock luggage?

If you're using a lock that isn't approved by TSA, agents have the authority to break open that lock to search through a bag. If you're carrying your valuables with you in your carry-on bags, and you don't have anything really valuable in your checked luggage, then you may not need to use a luggage lock.

How common is airport luggage theft?

According to the Department of Transportation, luggage theft is a common problem. U.S. airlines reported more than three mishandled bags for every thousand in March. More than 1 million bags were stolen in 2018. It resulted in $1.2 billion in missing valuables.

Why do Europeans wrap their luggage?

Bag Wrap, just one company that will sheath your luggage in cling film, with locations in airports all around Europe, states five: that it protects your luggage from damage, deters thieves, weather-proofs it, makes it easily identifiable, and reduces the risk of someone slipping illicit goods into your bag.

Do airports check every suitcase?

Checked Baggage Screening The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search. Inspection Notices: TSA may inspect your checked baggage during the screening process. If your property is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag.

Are luggage locks easy to break?

Is TSA lock safe? No, not really. They'll keep casual thieves out, but they are both easy to break and easy to open.

Is it smart to lock your luggage?

Even though locking your checked luggage can be a good idea, it's not a solid guarantee that your personal belongings will be safe. Unfortunately, there are a lot of clever folks who know how to bust open a combination lock. Also, some thieves simply slice through a soft-sided bag to grab its contents.

Should you mark your luggage?

A luggage tag is a small but important part of your travel experience. While many people prefer carry-on bags, luggage tags are an important part of your checked baggage as they help identify suitcases (especially in the case of loss or delays).

Is it better to have hard or soft luggage?

If you like to have the ability to access small items on the go, a soft-sided style with exterior pockets might be best. But if you want a suitcase that you can easily wipe off (after that airport latte spill), a hard-sided option is worth considering.

What is the most popular luggage color?

Most people tend to buy black or navy suitcases, says Phil Dengler, co-founder of the travel site The Vacationer. It can hide normal wear and tear—such as scratches—better than a light-colored one, and let's face it, darker tones can be a simple choice to default to when shopping for baggage.

What type of suitcase is best?

Often considered the most durable type of luggage, a hard shell suitcase has a rigid exterior that is usually made from moulded polypropylene, polycarbonate or ABS plastic, with some using aluminium. They're less flexible than soft-sided suitcases, making them a better option for protecting delicate items.

How can I protect my expensive luggage?

Is it common for luggage to be stolen?

According to the Department of Transportation, luggage theft is a common problem. U.S. airlines reported more than three mishandled bags for every thousand in March. More than 1 million bags were stolen in 2018. It resulted in $1.2 billion in missing valuables.

How can I prevent luggage theft at the airport?

Is it rare to lose luggage?

Odds are slim your airline will lose your luggage. According to the Air Travel Consumer Report issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, you face less than a 1 percent chance that a major airline will misplace your bags; in 2022, there were only about 7 reports of mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers.

Do luggage covers prevent theft?

However, having a luggage cover won't prevent security from getting into your stuff. If they're nice, they'll unzip it or peel off the Velcro. If not, they'll slice right through.

Is it OK to not lock checked luggage?

If you're not packing any valuable items in your checked bag, you don't necessarily need a lock. All bags will go through security screening, and you'll know if your bag has been physically opened if you find a notice inside your bag or if your non-TSA-approved lock is missing.

Should I lock my luggage when flying internationally?