🧳 Choose the right luggage: the first line of defense
A solid, discreet and identifiable piece of luggage is your best ally. Say goodbye to flashy suitcases or those without a secure closure. Opt for a rigid model with an integrated TSA lock. This may not discourage the most experienced thieves, but it's already an effective first filter.
Don't forget to personalize your suitcase (label, colored ribbon, discreet sticker) to avoid confusion on the conveyor belt and facilitate identification in the event of loss. It's a simple trick, but a devilishly effective one.
🗝️ Should you lock your luggage?
Yes, but not just any way. Conventional padlocks can be cut. Better to opt for suitcases with TSA-certified integrated locks, compatible with airport security checks without being forced.
Remember: locked luggage is not a safe. Avoid leaving valuables in it. Computer, passport, jewelry, important documents... always keep them with you in the cabin.
👜 🎒 Organizing your belongings in the cabin
A well-thought-out carry-on means more comfort and less stress. Use zipped pockets or compartments to separate essential items (papers, charger, medication). Slip your bag under the seat in front of you rather than in the overhead compartment: it'll be within sight, so less exposed to wandering hands.
What if you travel with an open backpack or tote bag? A zipper or snap hook can be enough to dissuade the curious. The idea is not to live in paranoia, but to be clever.
✈️ At the airport: watch your belongings like milk on fire
Theft in terminals or during boarding is a common occurrence. Crowded areas (queues, toilets, rest areas) are most at risk. Always keep your luggage close to you, even for an express coffee. Use a strap to attach your bag to your arm or the handle of a chair. Sounds excessive? Try finding a lost laptop in a crowded airport, and we'll talk.
The regional airports served by Chalair, such as Aurillac, Brest, Brive, Caen, Castres, Limoges and Pau, are often quieter than the major international hubs. But vigilance is still required, especially at peak times.
✈️ And during the flight? Keep your eyes open
Flying is not a risk-free moment. There are cases of luggage being searched during the flight, especially in cabin baggage compartments. Place your personal belongings in a bag and slide it under your seat.
If you need to store a bag above you, place it in the compartment opposite: you'll always see it.
🧳 ❓Lost or damaged luggage: what to do?
Despite all precautions, baggage can sometimes go astray. If your baggage is missing or damaged on arrival, report it immediately to the airport baggage service.
You should also ask your insurance company or airline about possible guarantees and compensation. Chalair makes every effort to ensure the safety of your personal effects, but it's always a good idea to consult the conditions of carriage available on our website.
To avoid disappointment, you can also equip your luggage with a GPS tracker. Some models can be slipped into a pocket or integrated into a suitcase. An unobtrusive, yet reassuring technology.
Protecting your luggage and avoiding theft often comes down to a few simple gestures: a little forethought, common sense and a pinch of mischief. The idea is not to turn every trip into a commando operation, but to adopt the right reflexes to leave (and return) with peace of mind.
Want to discover Chalair destinations for your next business or personal trip? Take a look at our destinations from your region 🛫