The Truth about Lost Luggage

Travel Tips

The truth is lost luggage still weighs you down.

Within the past month, I returned from two trips empty handed; my belongings temporarily displaced. That's not surprising; industry reports claim the airlines mishandled (aka lost) approximately 30 millions bags in 2005.

In 2006, statistics rose to 6.3 lost, damaged, delayed or stolen bags per 1,000 passengers. Just released figures for June 2007 escalated to 7.9 per 1,000.

And that's where the wait-y process begins.

A missing luggage report must be filed, which necessitates standing in line behind other disgruntled flyers. I selected an identifying picture — duffle or suitcase, soft-sided or hard, wheels or handle; filled in the baggage claim and flight numbers, and received a copy, signed by the airlines representative.

Then I went home to wait. I grew frustrated calling the hotline, only to listen to a menu of pre-recorded babble. I searched the website to see if my items had surfaced, but this created more anxiety.

I began listing the contents in my valise; then added up the value with dismay. Airlines require receipts to prove ownership, with a maximum liability of $2,800 per passenger. The limit for international carriers is actually less. And a bag must be missing for 90 days to be declared officially lost, prior to payment.

If your belongings disappear when first starting a trip, the situation becomes far more burdensome. Last year, my daughter and I spent several nights, sleeping in our underwear, and wasted precious vacation time, seeking suitable clothing. By day five we splurged on essentials. Naturally, our bags then miraculously appeared, freeing the airline from reimbursement.

Well, then again, they eventually paid for some items, after I sent numerous letters with dated proof-of-purchase.

And what happens if your stuff permanently disappears? Seems strange but, the lot goes to Alabama. Almost all passenger planes and cargo handlers deal exclusively with Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro, Alabama. This company opens the cases and sells whatever treasures lurk inside. I hear the store offers amazing bargains. Check it out: www.unclaimedbaggage.com.

My last travel saga involved an unexpected midnight telephone call. A cheerful employee awaken me, saying my bags were forthcoming. I needed to provide directions to my home, and post a note on my front door, saying it was okay to leave the suitcases. Otherwise, I was required to personally sign for delivery, around 4:30 or 5 AM, the expected arrival time.

When I lugged the weighty satchels inside, I felt dampness. In fact, some of my clothes were as wet as a towel that's just gone through the wash. Apparently my suitcases sat outside, in the thunderous rain that delayed my flight, two days earlier.

Yes, lost luggage is a heavy load and this time, mine returned even heavier.

For more tips, read “Luggage Handling Tips for Flyers.”

Luggage Handling Tips for Flyers

Travel Tips,

The only way to eliminate lost luggage, is to personally carry everything on board. Since that’s not always possible, especially with the liquid and gel restriction, the following tips may help:

  1. Attach a sturdy identification tag to your luggage, including your name and mobile phone number written with permanent ink. A business card can easily slip or be removed from an ID.
  2. Secure a ribbon or neon object on the handle, quickly distinguishing your items on the baggage claim carousel.
  3. Place your name, mobile phone and flight number inside you luggage, in case the external tags are removed. Airlines usually contact passengers via phone.
  4. Know the three letter airport code denoting your destination and verify that your suitcases are tagged correctly, before you leave them.
  5. For international travel, purchase retriever luggage tags. These tags invite baggage agents (in eight languages) to remove the itinerary you’ve placed inside, and forward your bag to you, while you’re still en route.
  6. Whenever possible, take nonstop flights. Short layovers and flights involving multiple airlines increase mishandling opportunities.
  7. Make a list of contents or take a photo of your bag.
  8. Carry receipts with you as proof of purchase for items acquired during a trip.
  9. Never pack anything irreplaceable in your checked belongings.
  10. Always bring a change of clothing in your carry-on. Toiletries as easy to replace, but clothing proves more difficult.

New Orleans- Ask and ye shall receive: The Vatican Mosaics Exhibit

Travel Journal/Blog
Virgin of the Chair
Virgin of the Chair

Ask and ye shall receive: The Vatican Mosaics Exhibit
By Debi Lander

If a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, the agreement to loan priceless artworks must include a thousand requests. But according to Monsignor Kern of New Orleans, one offhanded remark resulted in the first showing of the Vatican Mosaic Studios outside of Rome.

The Monsignor said he simply asked if Catholic heritage could be shared, while touring St. Peter's back in 2003. Cardinal Marchisano agreed and plans developed. Unfortunately, hurricane Katrina stalled the event. However, isn't it appropriate for a city rebuilding itself to now host gems literally pieced together.

But visitors must hurry if they want to catch the mosaic exhibit, on loan only until June 1st, 2007.

Michaelango founded the Vatican Studios 500 years ago, to preserve the deteriorating oil paintings of the Basilica. The artisans today continue creating works with enamel glass, stone and even shells.

The 37 pieces displayed in the old Ursuline Convent trace the evolution of the human spirit from Raphael to Rembrandt, Van Gogh to Chagall. Some works date from the 16th century while other 19th century selections feature tesserae, or micro-mosaic. The minute detail almost demands a magnifying glass.

Attendees make their way through the 45-60 minute self-tour, gleaning unobstructed views of the intricate art. At the end, a master-in-residence demonstrates her tools and techniques, plus answers questions.

An added bonus is the Ursuline Convent's painted wooden ceiling and stained glass windows, worth a visit on their own. The 1727 stucco fortress required post-Katrina renovations, but the property ranks as the only remaining building from the French Colonial period in the US. In 1794, legend recalls a catastrophic French Quarter fire that nearly consumed the city. The nuns knelt outside, praying for their hometown. Just as the fire reached them, the wind changed and the convent survived.

Seems this location has truly been blessed.

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Vatican Mosaic Exhibit at Old Ursuline Convent, 1100 Chartres Street, New Orleans. Open Tuesday- Sunday from 9-5 PM through June 1, 2007. Adult tickets are $10 with the proceeds benefiting the restoration and preservation of the convent. Call 504 569- 1401 for more information.