I have worked for a major carrier for the last twelve years.  Six of them at an airport.  I am part time in baggage service in Las Vegas.  In those six years I have stories I could tell.  Since 911 things have changed and you need to know how to travel.  Bags are getting left behind at stations because the goverment's TSA gets behind and they do not get the bags scanned in time to get on that flight.  Please check in early and don't carry things in the bag that will set off the TSA alarms. Also in some airports the security lines to get to the gates are very long.

   Here are a few facts you should be aware of:

• Wheels, Feet and handles are not coverd on a bag. Buy the short feet and sturdy wheels and a handle that zips closed.  Also if you have a duffle bag, tape together your handles so the ramp can not grab just one side and rip it.
• Put your name on the bag, inside and out.  This goes for carry on bags also.  You never know when they are going to gate check a bag.
• Put your cell phone number on the bag, inside and out.  Baggage service agents are mini private detectives and love solving the mystery of where the bag belongs.
• Please, please do not put your medicine in a bag.  Carry it with you or at least enough for a couple of days.  You will not be reimburesed for medication and it will be up to you to call your Dr. and have a prescription sent to where you are.
• No matter what Clark whats his nut. (the consumer guru)says, by law we have 24 hrs to find your bag and get it to you before any kind of compensation is given.
• When taking your bag off the carasoul, please check your bag tags to make sure you have your bag.  Many bags do look a like in size,shape and color.  If you have a big pink ribbon, so does someone else.  It will cost you time and money to exchange the bag when you take someone elses.  Happens everyday.  Sometimes if the cell number is on the bag we can prevent it before you leave the airport.  Course you do have to turn the cell phone on.