How to Prevent Lost Luggage Using QR Tags (6 steps)
You’re on a train, traveling through Tokyo, when you suddenly realize it’s your stop. Quickly, you gather your things and get off just before the doors close.
It’s right then when you realize you’ve totally forgotten your bag in the overhead space.
Ouch!
I’ve seen this happen on more than one occasion while traveling. And I always feel terrible for the other person — if only there was something I could do!
Enter scannable contact codes.
Welcome to my guide on how to prevent lost luggage using QR tags. Because we have the technology, so why not use it?
Preventing the stress of lost luggage means your adventures will be more fun and more carefree. And this is the ultimate goal.
So with that, let’s get to it!
Table of Contents Show
Hey, just a heads up that some of the product mentions in this post were sponsored. But rest assured, I never recommend brands or products unless I legit use them or they come with a solid reputation and quality standards.
What’s A QR Luggage Tag?
QR luggage tags, or contact codes, are scannable codes you can stick to your luggage or belongings that let people contact you if they find your misplaced stuff.
This means you have a way better chance of recovering lost items (which is essential for more stress-free travel).
When someone scans your QR tag, a messaging interface is opened up with an automated message (from you). The other person can then send you a secure message without ever sharing any personal contact details or phone numbers — Huzzah!
You’ll receive an email about any messages you get. Or you can also use an app if that’s easier (but more on this later).
Benefits of Using Luggage QR Codes
More efficient way to identify lost luggage
Worry less about losing important items
Global accessibility
Protect your personal information when contacting strangers
More control for things that are usually out of your control
Convenient technology that’s easy to use
Affordable
Better security and care for your personal belongings
How I Prevent Lost Luggage Using SeQR Luggage Tags (6 steps)
Lost luggage throws a serious wrench into things. It creates stress, logistical hurdles and unexpected costs.
So here’s how you can use QR codes to take back control and better protect your most important stuff.
1. Purchase Your Luggage Tags
Step one — buy some QR tags (I know, duh).
For this post, I’m using SeQR tags. I like them for their simple and totally private messaging tool. If my luggage ever gets misplaced, anyone can easily contact me and no personal information is ever shared.
They offer a lot of packages to choose from too, ranging from simple $5 tags to (still affordable) bundle packages.
I have the Label Everything Bundle, which is great if you have lots of stuff to label, but their Luggage Contact Tags is also a solid option for travelers.
Once you have your QR tags, it’s time to activate them. So let’s keep moving.
2. Scan + Activate Your Tags
Scanning and activating your QR tags is fairly straightforward.
You can just follow the instructions you’re given, but here’s the basic setup process:
Scan the Activation Code QR using your smartphone (found on your QR codes sheet)
This will verify your account and codes
Click on “Set up your codes” from the screen that pops up
Click “Skip…” and then choose “Go home”
This is just what I did — I found it easier to set things up this way
From here, you can access your messages, QR codes (for customization) and more
*Use the SeQR App (there should be a banner prompting you on the screen) to better manage things and get notified when you receive a message
3. Peel + Stick Your Tags
Time to label your stuff!
After you activate your account and tags, you’re ready to peel and stick them to your luggage or personal items.
This is pretty straightforward, but here are some quick tips for where and how to stick your tags:
Make them clearly visible and easy to find
Make sure the surface is clean and good for adhesives
Prioritize your most important luggage and items
Decide where to stick your tags before you peel them off
Consider putting them inside a plastic slip or luggage attachment for better security and longevity
4. Customize Your Messaging
Whenever someone scans your QR tag, they’ll be given a default message.
With SeQR, you can easily customize this.
Of course, this isn’t necessary, but it’s a nice option (especially if you have anything that requires specific information or requests).
You can also customize each individual QR code you bought. So, depending on the luggage or item the QR tag is on, it may have a completely different message. It’s pretty cool and versatile.
Here are some quick tips for effective and relevant luggage tag messaging:
Be clear and concise
Express your gratitude
Be specific if you need to include special instructions
Include any relevant details (for example, if something is fragile)
Use polite language that’s not rude or offensive
Write your message in multiple languages (especially if you’re traveling overseas)
5. Test Them Out
I always like to test things out to make sure everything is working properly. And it’s simple to do with your QR tags.
You can simply scan your codes using your own phone or have a friend or family member do it for you. Take note of any issues and fix them accordingly.
Besides testing out the QR tags, it’s also important to keep in mind some safety stuff.
So here are some tips for meeting people and getting your luggage back safely and securely:
Always meet people in a public place
Alternatively, tell people to leave your luggage at a secure location or security kiosk
Don’t share any private information
You don’t need to compensate anyone for finding your luggage
Double check that nothing is missing from your luggage (but always go to security or police if you find any issues)
6. Travel With More Peace of Mind
A major theme for this website is carefree traveling. And preventing lost luggage by using QR tags is a great way to keep things chill.
It’s peace of mind and smart protection for your most important stuff.
When other travelers or people find your lost luggage, they’ll see a QR code with the simple instructions to “Scan if found.”
After scanning, anyone can send you a totally private and secure message to let you know.
It’s simple and affordable. And it gives me priceless peace of mind.
Explore more:
➤ How to Make Travel Easier
Later ✌️
QR tags are an awesome way to prevent lost luggage and keep your traveling chill and stress-free.
They’re simple, affordable and completely private. As a full-time traveler, I use them on my most important luggage and items. So if things ever go missing, I’ll get notified on my SeQR app if someone finds my items and messages me.
QR tags are a simple and effective extra layer of security and protection for my stuff. So why wouldn’t I use them?
If you’re keen to test them out first, you can try them here completely for free.
Otherwise, happy traveling!
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