Here's a great tip to help stop luggage theft: Before you fly on an airline make a photo luggage tag. Simply print a picture of yourself, then on the other side print out your home address, cell phone and the address where you're flying to. Cover this tag with clear packing tape. Make one for each piece of luggage then attach it to the handle. Include a matching printout for the inside of your luggage in case the outside tag comes off.
This is a great idea. But for safety's sake I never ever put my address (home or destination) on my luggage tags. I ONLY put my name and cell phone number on it. You never know if the person finding your luggage is a "good guy" or a "bad guy".
But when the person calls to arrange where to send it to, I have them send it to the local post office. They do not need to know your home address. Just be sure and let your post office know what's happening so they know to watch for it and to keep it for you.
I like your idea about the photo because a thief is going to be less likely to try to sneak the luggage out of the airport because of risk of the random luggage checks at the gate. Also, so many bags look alike now days that it'll make it easier to identify at luggage pick-up :-)
Mom From Missouri does make a good point though about not putting a home address on your tag but a thief can not steal your identity from a photo as long as your address is not on it. Also, not everyone has a cell phone so just make sure you Google your home number and if it shows your address there is a button you can click for immediate address removal and Google has to remove! (actually, I think they have to remove your phone number, too) Double check to see if other sites have your phone number and ask them for removal as well!
You need to have your name and at least a phone number on and in your luggage in case it's lost (rather than stolen) so the airline can track you down to return it!
Personally, this seems like a bit too much inf to be giving out to a total stranger. They know you're going out of town and can go, or call an accomplice to go and rob you blind.
For safety sake, I would not put a photo. I also would not put my first name or address. I would only put a first initial and a cell phone number. If someone took your bag, they know you are gone and you have provided them with your home address. Instead provide them with a business address if any.
A photo gives them your physical description. It makes it easier for someone to try and assume your ID. Also, never put your keys to your home in your suitcase. A former neighbor of mine got robbed that way--the person who took her suitcase had her keys and a photo copy of her passport. They cleaned out her home while she was gone.
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