Carry-ons and Lost Luggage, How to Plan Ahead with TripMama.com

When traveling, luggage getting lost is a great fear. We pray to the aero gods that we can avoid the gripping dread of a ruined trip, stuck only with the clothes on our backs and the items in our pockets. Frankly, considering how much the hardworking people who deal with the 1000s of individual pieces per day get through, it's amazing more isn't lost. Nonetheless, there is a simple way to ensure your next air flight isn't a complete fiasco; take a carry-on bag.

If you own large pieces solely, invest in a carry-on bag. It's your insurance you won't be at a complete loss if your luggage disappears into the ether of the claims department. Additionally, you're covered if something happens to your flight, stranding you in the airport overnight. Pack smartly, you'll be able to pack more than you realize. Now, what to bring:

1. Bar none, this is the most important. If you take prescribed medicines, make sure you put them in your overnight bag. If your medicine is stored in a lost checked bag, you'll be forced to do a lot of scrambling. The major drug stores, like Walgreens and CVS, will grant a small amount of your medication until your things are located. However, if you refill prescriptions at a smaller drug store, you'll have a difficult time getting the problem sorted. Either way, it will be a lot of work.

2. 1-3 outfits and undergarments. The size of your bag and climate of your location will determine how many articles of clothing you will be able to pack. Focus mainly on your "unmentionables" as wearing the same underclothing day after day will make you miserable.

3. Toiletries- this is counter-intuitive. Most people automatically grab toothbrushes, along with other necessities, and put them in their bag. If you don't have much room, however, they take up unneeded space. Almost every hotel and resort has backup toothbrushes, toothpaste and small combs available to their guests specifically for these types of situations. Plus their rooms are stocked with soap and shampoo/conditioner. If you're stranded in an airport due to bad weather many stores throughout the airport will sell these items. I'd base that decision on the amount of room you have. If you don't have much room, that extra pair of socks is more important!

4. Ladies, let's talk cosmetics. Though they aren't as essential as toiletries, they come in at a close second. If you use an array of make-up, split them into two categories- essentials and bonus. Why these over the general toiletries? Price. Cosmetics are not cheap; if you'd rather spend your money on other items while you're out of town, use a tiny bit of room to save your cash.

5. Put all of your valuables in your carry-on. Even more prudent, do not take any or very few of these treasured items.

Visit our TripMama.com Travel Forum where additional recommendations and advice will help you along your way.

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