What happens if you don't pick up your checked luggage?

Unclaimed Checked Luggage: A Journey Through Lost and Found

As the hustle and bustle of the airport subsides, forgotten luggage occupies a peculiar limbo. Unclaimed checked luggage embarks on an unplanned adventure, its destiny hanging in the balance.

Initial Haven: Lost Property Department

Upon arrival at the baggage carousel, a forlorn suitcase or bag stands abandoned, its owner nowhere to be seen. It is then whisked away to the airline’s lost property department, a temporary refuge for stray luggage. Here, it enjoys a brief reprieve, typically lasting five days.

Prolonged Sojourn in Storage

If the owner fails to materialize within that time frame, the luggage is transferred to a longer-term storage facility. This becomes its extended abode for the next sixty days, a testament to the airline’s relentless efforts to reunite lost items with their rightful owners.

Final Disposition

After an arduous sixty-day wait, the unclaimed luggage reaches its ultimate fate. The airline has two options:

• Donation: The luggage and its contents are donated to charitable organizations, providing essentials to those in need.
• Auction: The luggage is auctioned off to the highest bidder, offering a chance for someone to acquire forgotten treasures or valuable items.

Avoiding Lost Luggage Woes

To prevent your luggage from falling into the abyss of the lost and found, consider these proactive measures:

• Attach clear identification tags: Include your name, address, phone number, and email address on both the inside and outside of your luggage.
• Use luggage tracking devices: These devices provide real-time updates on your luggage’s location, reducing the anxiety of lost luggage.
• Check in early: This allows ample time for baggage handlers to process and load your luggage correctly.

Remember, unclaimed checked luggage is a testament to the importance of responsible travel. By taking simple precautions, you can ensure that your belongings accompany you on every adventure.