#USA #St. Petersburg #travel insurance #Squaremouth #Baggage Handling

Thanksgiving Travel Insights

As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for a journey that often includes a significant amount of luggage. While the excitement of reaching family and friends fills the air, the risk of mishandled luggage can cast a shadow on the holiday spirit. A recent analysis by Squaremouth, a leading travel insurance marketplace, sheds light on which airlines are notorious for mishandling bags, offering crucial tips for travelers to safeguard their belongings.

The State of Baggage Handling

Based on data from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in 2025, Squaremouth reported the rates of mishandled baggage among major airlines. Here are the findings:

Worst Airlines for Baggage Handling:

• - United Airlines Network: 0.72%
• - American Airlines Network: 0.66%
• - Hawaiian Airlines: 0.54%

Best Airlines for Baggage Handling:

• - Allegiant Air: 0.09%
• - JetBlue Airways: 0.31%
• - Southwest Airlines: 0.38%

These statistics represent the number of mishandled bags per 100 checked bags loaded onto flights. With the holiday travel season upon us, understanding these rates can help travelers make informed decisions when booking their flights.

Essential Tips for Protecting Your Luggage

To help prevent potential luggage mishaps, Chrissy Valdez, Senior Director of Operations at Squaremouth, shares several beneficial precautions:
1. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On: Medications, valuables, and important documents should always travel with you to avoid mishaps.
2. Document Your Belongings: Before traveling, take photos of your luggage and its contents. This can serve as valuable evidence in case of loss or damage.
3. Report Issues Immediately: If your bag is delayed, lost, or damaged, report it to your airline without delay. The sooner they are informed, the better your chances of resolution.
4. Keep Records: Maintain all documentation regarding incident reports and expenses incurred due to luggage issues. This documentation is critical if you need to file claims.

The Role of Travel Insurance

While airlines do provide baggage policies, they may not encompass all expenses incurred during luggage delays, losses, or damages. This is where travel insurance comes into play, providing travelers with additional financial protection:

• - Baggage Delay Coverage: Helps reimburse you for essential purchases while you wait for your delayed luggage.
• - Baggage Loss Coverage: Offers compensation for belongings that are lost or stolen.
• - Baggage Damage Coverage: Can help cover items that suffer damage during transit.

Conclusion

As travelers embark on their Thanksgiving journeys, being educated about baggage handling can save stress and heartache. For additional resources and insights, including detailed airline rankings, visit Squaremouth’s guide on the best and worst airlines for luggage handling. By taking the necessary precautions and considering travel insurance, you can ensure a smoother holiday experience, focusing on what truly matters: enjoying time with loved ones.

For over 20 years, Squaremouth has been at the forefront of the travel insurance comparison sector, helping millions of travelers to secure the best plans for their needs. Make your Thanksgiving travel less stressful with these tips, ensuring your luggage arrives safely at your destination.