Before you take off Make sure someone near your residence knows where to contact you in emergencies or is authorized to make critical decisions regarding your residence. Check with your personal insurance carrier to see what coverage you may have on luggage and contents. Make sure your luggage is tagged inside and out, but don't use your position or affiliation. Check in early to avoid the last minute rush. DO NOT transport items for other people.
Portable computers are particularly susceptible to theft, even at airport security checkpoints.
Do not exchange items between bags while waiting for customs or security screening. At a transportation terminal, do not get involved in any disturbance. Never place extreme valuables in your checked luggage. Go directly to the gate or secure area after checking your luggage, and avoid waiting rooms or shopping areas outside secure areas. Be alert at security checkpoints.