After the Flight

On arrival, walk briskly to the baggage reclaim area; this will help get your circulation moving and reduce the risk of DVT.

If your luggage does not arrive in the baggage claim area, find the agent on duty immediately. There could be a chance that your luggage has already arrived and is locked up for safekeeping. Sometimes your luggage can be loaded onto a non-stop flight even though you were on a plane that had a stopover on the way.

However, if your suitcase is not there, make sure you fill in all the appropriate paperwork before leaving the airport, even if you are assured that the bag will be on the next flight. Fill out all the information about your luggage on the forms provided; be as detailed as possible. Make sure the airline will deliver the bag without charge when it is found, and get a phone number to call in case you need to follow-up.

If you need basic items such as toothbrush, toothpaste and razor, ask. Most airlines will provide these for you whilst you're waiting for your suitcase.

If your bag arrives, but it is open or unlocked, check immediately to see if any of the contents are missing or damaged. Report any problems to your airline before leaving the airport.

Check your suitcase as soon as you arrive at your destination. Report any loss or damage straightaway.