Most people have heard luxury travel vacation horror stories about lost, stolen or damaged luggage. But in this day in age, there are a lot more restrictions about what you can and cannot pack or bring aboard, in addition to more ways to be ripped off by con artists and petty thieves. Avoid these travel stresses by following some common sense luggage safety tips.

Have a Back Up Plan

Assume that everyone at the airport is unable to help you. This means you must help yourself. First, purchase travel insurance that covers lost or stolen luggage. Make sure your luggage tags are secure and within plain sight. Bring your own luggage tags from home as a backup. Don’t put your home address or phone on your luggage tags. This alerts everyone you are out of town and where you live. Plus, should your luggage get lost as you depart, you won’t be at home to receive it. A good idea is to use the address of your travel agent who specializes in luxury vacations. That way, they can receive your personal items and safely hold them for you. Pack a few clothing items in your carry-ons, just in case. Clothing is the hardest to replace when traveling, and if you have an extra set, you will save yourself some time and money should the worst befall.

Pack Smart

Your entire luggage will be searched, and unfortunately, not all luggage screeners are trust worthy. This means do not pack any clothing items, shoes or handbags that are obviously worth over $100. If you are talking about a suit or gown, chances are no one will be able to steal that, but if you are talking about an $800 Fendi purse and matching sunglasses, you are better off putting those in your carry on. If you are bringing jewelry or electronics on your luxury world cruise, do not pack them in your checked luggage, as these items are also easily taken.

Be Aware

With changing travel restrictions, it is best for each traveler interested in luxury vacations to check new restrictions on their own. Do not trust anything that has not been verified by the government. Make sure you carry on nothing that is banned or forbidden. Should you forget, cooperate with the authorities. But the best way to avoid run-ins with the TSA is to be aware of procedures and regulations. Make it easier on you and them!

Packing for luxury vacations does not have to be an ordeal. Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Pack your valuables safely in your carry on. Be aware of new and changing regulation. The key to luggage safety is using your common sense to staying informed. You have already taken the first step by reading this article!

Virginia Morgan is a travel writer and frequent contributor to AMT American Express Travel http://www.amttravel.com/ a premier Internet resource for American Express Cruises http://www.amtcruises.com/ Serving customers online since 1996.