Luggage tags are a handy travel accessory, providing reassurance that misplaced baggage can be returned, yet they also carry significant privacy and security risks.
The nightmare of losing your luggage can sour any holiday plans, so it’s imperative not to overshare on information.
Travel guru Mike Harvey, Managing Director at 1st Move International, said it’s cruicial you “strike a good balance” in what details you share for the sake of personal security.
Tyla reports that the expert advises including vital information like your full name, as it appears on your passport, so airline staff can easily assist you if your bags are lost.
It’s important to include essential contact details such as your full phone number, as well as your email address if travelling internationally.
That being said, Mike suggests it may be wise to use an alternative email to “keep it distinct from your personal one”.
Additionally, Mike warned against including a home address for privacy and security reasons. He also cautioned against listing valuable items within your luggage to avoid any unwanted attention and deter potential thieves.
Travellers are also being urged to keep the specifics of their holiday plans under wraps, with the expert adding: “Keep your travel itinerary and destination details private to prevent misuse of your information”.
To safeguard your identity, it’s crucial to omit personal ID numbers like National Insurance or passport digits, as well as avoiding the disclosure of travel insurance policy details, reports the Mirror.
But it’s not just privacy concerns that should be on travellers’ radars. With liquid restrictions back in force across European airports, aviation experts have warned holidaymakers about potential queues and hold-ups.
The European Commission previously announced that the 100ml liquid limit would be back in force as of September 1. This means all liquids, gels, toothpaste and sprays once again need to be under 100ml and placed within a transparent bag before they’re allowed through the security checkpoints at EU terminals.