Cruise lines have reminded crew members to carefully prepare their luggage before traveling to or from ships, emphasizing that the company is not responsible for costs related to lost, damaged, overweight, or excess baggage unless specifically stated in employment contracts.
The advisory highlights the importance of proper luggage identification and preparation, especially as crew frequently travel internationally to join vessels.
Crew members are strongly encouraged to attach luggage tags to all checked and carry-on bags and place a copy of their travel itinerary and contact details inside each suitcase. Since many bags look alike, adding stickers, labels, or other identifying features can help prevent mix-ups.
Crew are also advised to pack essential clothing in their carry-on baggage in case checked luggage is delayed or lost. Removing old airline tags and keeping records of bag descriptions—including color, brand, and size—can also help speed up recovery if luggage goes missing.
Airlines typically allow a maximum of two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) when traveling to or from the United States and Canada. In other regions using the weight-based system, baggage limits may be reduced to 20 kg (44 lbs) per bag.
Carry-on luggage is usually limited to one small bag, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop, and must fit within airline size restrictions.
Crew members are reminded that excess baggage fees are their responsibility, unless otherwise stated in their contract. However, standard checked baggage fees may be reimbursed if proper receipts are submitted.
If luggage does not arrive, crew must immediately report the issue at the airline’s baggage claim office and obtain a tracking number. The ship’s Port Agent and Crew Office can assist with tracking and arranging delivery to the next port if necessary.
To support affected crew, ships may provide temporary assistance, including:
If luggage is permanently lost, crew members must file a claim directly with the airline.
Lost or delayed luggage can create serious challenges for crew joining ships, especially when uniforms and essential items are involved. Cruise lines stress that preparation, proper labeling, and understanding airline baggage policies are key to avoiding unnecessary stress and expenses.
For crew members traveling to their next assignment, one simple rule applies: label everything, pack smart, and always keep essentials in your carry-on.
The advisory highlights the importance of proper luggage identification and preparation, especially as crew frequently travel internationally to join vessels.
Crew urged to take precautions before travel
Crew members are strongly encouraged to attach luggage tags to all checked and carry-on bags and place a copy of their travel itinerary and contact details inside each suitcase. Since many bags look alike, adding stickers, labels, or other identifying features can help prevent mix-ups.
Crew are also advised to pack essential clothing in their carry-on baggage in case checked luggage is delayed or lost. Removing old airline tags and keeping records of bag descriptions—including color, brand, and size—can also help speed up recovery if luggage goes missing.
Strict airline baggage limits apply
Airlines typically allow a maximum of two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) when traveling to or from the United States and Canada. In other regions using the weight-based system, baggage limits may be reduced to 20 kg (44 lbs) per bag.
Carry-on luggage is usually limited to one small bag, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop, and must fit within airline size restrictions.
Crew members are reminded that excess baggage fees are their responsibility, unless otherwise stated in their contract. However, standard checked baggage fees may be reimbursed if proper receipts are submitted.
What happens if luggage is lost
If luggage does not arrive, crew must immediately report the issue at the airline’s baggage claim office and obtain a tracking number. The ship’s Port Agent and Crew Office can assist with tracking and arranging delivery to the next port if necessary.
To support affected crew, ships may provide temporary assistance, including:
- Complimentary toiletry kits
- Free laundry services for up to five days
- Emergency vouchers for essential items if luggage is delayed
If luggage is permanently lost, crew members must file a claim directly with the airline.
Important reminder for joining crew
Lost or delayed luggage can create serious challenges for crew joining ships, especially when uniforms and essential items are involved. Cruise lines stress that preparation, proper labeling, and understanding airline baggage policies are key to avoiding unnecessary stress and expenses.
For crew members traveling to their next assignment, one simple rule applies: label everything, pack smart, and always keep essentials in your carry-on.
