Episode Details

Handle lost luggage like a pro with tips for getting reimbursed and packing smarter to avoid future headaches.

What should you do when your luggage disappears on an international trip? Which credit cards and travel insurance policies actually help when this happens? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Meghan’s real-life saga of lost luggage on a trip to Italy, including how she tracked it down, got it back, and got reimbursed nearly $2,000. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including how changes in U.S. travel spending could lead to more travel deals, the latest late-summer travel deals, World of Hyatt glamping points deals, Disneyland’s limited-time ticket offer, and a new United Club lounge in Denver.

Then, Meghan and Sally dive deep into how to financially protect yourself from baggage mishaps. They share tips and tricks on choosing the right credit card for travel protections, tracking bags with AirTags, and getting reimbursed — even internationally. They also discuss travel insurance options, airline refund policies, packing strategies for high-stakes travel, and how to navigate lost-and-found drama abroad. 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• 12 Credit Cards That Provide Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/credit-cards-that-provide-travel-insurance 

• American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum 

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Under Canvas Review: Glamping with Hyatt https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/under-canvas-review-glamping-with-hyatt 

• Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Party: How to Join for Cheap https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/disneyland-70-anniversary 

• First Look: United’s New Denver Club Is a Mountain Cabin Delight https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/first-look-uniteds-new-denver-club-is-a-mountain-cabin-delight 

• The Best Days to Fly Around Labor Day in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/the-best-days-to-fly-around-labor-day-in-2025 

• How to Find the Best Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/travel-insurance 

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