Delayed and lost luggage

Last week it was reported that Miranda Kerr had become the latest celebrity to suffer the curse of lost luggage. American Airlines mislaid the model's wedding dress four months ago and, frustrated by the lack of progress, Kerr took to a social networking site asking fans for their advice.

'Has anyone else experienced losing luggage through American Airlines and if so did you ever locate it again?' she asked followers on Facebook.

The good news is that only a tiny percentage of checked-in bags are ever lost; most turn up within 72 hours. If you're standing at the carousel and your bags never make it out of the hold, report it immediately to the service desk in the baggage collection hall. Policies on delayed or lost luggage vary by airline but filling in a report before you leave the airport is a must.

Read more: Travel Tip Tuesday: Delayed and lost luggage