World Travellers

S. Michael Windsor our expert of the day, writes:

One of the major issues today with consumers in regards to air travel is the amount of lost baggage. Did you know that over 4 million bags a year are either lost, damaged, or in some cases, both? It is important to think about these things when preparing for take off and included in this article are several tips to help secure your luggage while flying to your destination. First, I’d like to mention that over the holidays years ago my bag was lost when the airline changed gates on my flight. This was not a small change but a change which had us traveling across the entire Houston airport from one side to another before our flight took off in 15 minutes. Not fun. Of course, when we arrived at our destinations much of the people who were in the same situation as myself had lost baggage as well. The lost luggage claim line was quite long that evening at 11pm.

Jay Ellenby our expert of the day, writes:

Our number one airline travel tip is: Check in early!

Airlines require domestic travelers to check-in 1 hour prior to departure. International flights require a 2 hour check-in. If you do not arrive on time and if the flights are overbooked, the possibility exists that your seat will be given away. In addition, there will be a greater opportunity when you arrive early to have your name on the “top of the list” for an upgrade.

Be aware that some airlines have restricted carry on luggage policies. For example:

Northwest - Maximum check-in is two and carryon luggage is limited to one piece plus a purse/briefcase/laptop computer for all flights. First class international is allowed two carry on items.

American/TWA - Check one and carryon two or check two and carryon one.

Delta - Check one and carry-on two or check two and carry-on one.

Southwest - Check up to three and carryon two.

United - One carryon in economy and two in business/first class.

USAir - Carryon two

Continental - Carryon two

Store your carryon luggage in the compartment across from you so you can keep an eye on it.