In 2010 alone, nearly 30 million pieces of checked-in luggage was lost or mishandled by airlines over the world, so if you’re looking for tips on how to keep your luggage secure this summer, you’ve come to the right place. Many of these pieces of luggage had things stolen from them, or were physically damaged in one way or another, and airlines are paying out record amounts of compensation fees to passengers.

Even as flyers choose to limit their check-in baggage by only taking small hand luggage, these are measures that shouldn’t have to be taken by passengers paying hundreds of pounds for their airfare.

In order to keep your luggage secure on your holiday abroad this year, here are 5 top tips that will help you reduce keep your luggage secure…

Preparation

If you’re taking any valuables with you on your holiday, carry them in your hand luggage and not in your suitcase. From portable speakers and jewellery to luxury shoes and money, you’ll be better off taking them with you to your seat instead of having to fill out a lost luggage form on the other side.

Concealment

If you really must put these items in your suitcase, make sure they’re concealed, and even take pictures at the airport before you check your bag in, proving they were in there.

Securing Your Luggage

Before you even leave your house for the airport, make sure your luggage is as secure as it can be. Even if your valuables are in your hand luggage, it is the principle of keeping your personal belongings safe, as well as deterring other people from opening it. When it comes to opening bags, people can put things inside as well as remove items from them, and many tourists have found items added inside to their luggage, including narcotics, animals and even food.

TSA Locks

TSA approved locks are the way forward, so use them to secure your luggage even if they come with locks in the first place. Tell tags are another great way to see if your bag has been tampered with, and a piece of luggage cannot be resealed without the tell-tag being destroyed. Zips in the front and back of your suitcase are also not recommended.

Check Upon Landing

Once you arrive at your destination and get your case back, open it up and check that everything is where it should be. If there is any damage to your case, like scratches or dents, inform your airline’s help desk straight away. Additionally, if one of your items has been stolen from your case, there is only a 7 day window to claim for it, so take a few minutes to ensure you’ve got everything you came with.