Here’s the HelloVacay how-to for safeguarding your belongings like a boss!

Direct Flights For The Win

Reduce the baggage drama by choosing the direct flight route. Fewer layovers mean fewer opportunities for those sneaky gremlins to play hide-and-seek with your bags. It probably seems like a no-brainer to strive for direct flights, but for those occasions when a layover can’t be avoided, you’ll want our guide to airport lounge access!

Tag It Like a Pro

Equip your luggage with the ultimate armor: well-crafted baggage tags. Don't forget to include your name, phone number, and email address. Pro tip: Add both your home and temporary address, just in case your bags decide to embark on an unexpected detour!

Stand Out from the Crowd

Make your luggage the envy of all other suitcases by giving it a personality that can't be ignored. Even if your personal style is understated, go ahead and give your suitcase a vibrant ribbon, funky luggage strap, or a sprinkle of personalized stickers. Your bags will become impossible to miss or mistake! Go wild with one of these 17 fun luggage tag options from Buzzfeed.

Carry-On = Crown Jewels

Keep your prized possessions close! Safeguard your gadgets, jewelry, and travel documents in your trusty carry-on bag. Pro tip: Add a change of underwear to your carry-on so that even if the gremlins snatch your checked luggage temporarily, you'll be unfazed and ready for action!

Divide and Conquer

Teamwork makes the dream work! If you're exploring with a companion, split your belongings between your checked bags. That way, if one bag decides to take an impromptu vacation of its own, you'll still have essentials in the other. Bonus move: Pack a change of clothes for each traveler in both bags—double the style, double the fun!

Baggage Policy 411

A true travel ninja knows the rules, my fearless comrades! Get familiar with your airline's baggage policy to avoid any surprises or battles at the gate. Know the weight and size restrictions for both checked and carry-on bags, and you'll be sailing through like a pro.

Time Warp to the Airport

Don't be fashionably late! Arrive at the airport with time to spare, leaving no room for baggage shenanigans. HelloVacay pro tip: Give yourself at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This extra cushion ensures your luggage boards the same adventure-bound plane as you!

Capture the Evidence

Snap, snap! Capture a quick pic of your luggage before handing it over to the airline guardians. This visual evidence will come to the rescue in case of damage or disputes. It's like having a superhero sidekick armed with proof!

Tracking Tools

Embrace the power of technology! Utilize airline-provided tracking tools to stay on top of your flight info and receive notifications for any luggage-related updates. With these digital allies by your side, the gremlins won't stand a chance! There are also independent apps and tracking tools. Check out the top 5 luggage trackers from Good Housekeeping.

Travel Insurance, Your Safety Net

Shield yourself from the unexpected by investing in comprehensive coverage that includes lost or delayed luggage. It's like having a forcefield protecting your belongings—peace of mind, activated!