How to Get Your Luggage Quickly at the Airport: Tips from Airport Staff

Waiting for your luggage at the baggage claim can be one of the most frustrating parts of air travel. However, experienced airport staff have shared the fastest and simplest ways to get your luggage without having to wait long. Follow these expert tips to retrieve your bags efficiently and save time at the airport.

1. Check in Late (But Not Too Late)

One of the best-kept secrets is that bags checked in last are often loaded onto the plane last, which means they will be among the first to be unloaded at baggage claim.

How to Do It:

• Arrive at the airport on time but check in your luggage closer to the end of the check-in window.
• Avoid arriving too late, as your bag could end up on a later flight.

2. Request a ‘Fragile’ Tag on Your Bag

Bags marked as fragile are typically handled with more care and are placed on top of other luggage in the cargo hold, meaning they are often among the first to be unloaded.

How to Do It:

• Politely ask for a fragile tag at the check-in counter.
• Even if your bag isn't fragile, this trick can help it come out faster.

3. Choose a Non-Stop Flight When Possible

Connecting flights mean multiple baggage transfers, increasing the risk of delays.

How to Do It:

• Book direct flights whenever possible.
• If a layover is unavoidable, choose flights with longer layover times to reduce the chance of baggage mix-ups.

4. Stand Near the Front of the Plane (If Possible)

Passengers who disembark first often get to the baggage claim area sooner, reducing wait time.

How to Do It:

• Book a seat near the front of the plane if your airline allows seat selection.
• Use priority boarding if available.

5. Use a Distinctive Luggage Tag or Cover

Luggage that stands out is easier to spot and grab quickly.

How to Do It:

• Use a bright luggage tag, ribbon, or cover to make your bag instantly recognizable.
• Avoid black suitcases if possible, as they are the most common and harder to distinguish.

6. Head Straight to Baggage Claim After Landing

Many passengers make the mistake of stopping for food or the restroom first. The faster you reach the baggage claim area, the less time you’ll wait.

How to Do It:

• Skip unnecessary detours and head directly to baggage claim.
• Use express immigration lines if available to clear customs faster.

7. Use Priority or VIP Luggage Services

Many airlines offer priority luggage handling for an additional fee or as part of premium ticket classes.

How to Do It:

• If you’re flying business or first class, your luggage will often be labeled for priority handling.
• Some airlines allow economy passengers to purchase priority baggage services.

8. Track Your Luggage Using an AirTag or GPS Tracker

Placing a GPS tracker like Apple AirTag or Tile inside your suitcase can help you track your bag’s location in real-time.

How to Do It:

• Place a Bluetooth tracker inside your luggage before checking it in.
• Use your phone to check if your bag has been unloaded or misplaced.

Final Thoughts

Waiting for luggage doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. By following these airport staff-recommended tips, you can significantly reduce wait time and ensure your bags arrive quickly and safely. Next time you travel, try these smart tricks and spend less time at baggage claim!