So here are a few of the most common mistakes, and how to avoid them. The first is a fairly obvious one, but easily overlooked. Taking one case on a trip with you is a risk. Taking two is double the risk; three is three times the risk, and so on. The lesson here is, to try to take as few bags as you can. Incredibly, most people admit that they use less than half the contents of any bag they take on holiday. Yet, when it comes to next year, we make the same mistake and over pack again.

If it really is necessary to take more than one bag, then don't put all your eggs in one basket. Obviously you shouldn't be carrying eggs in your case anyway, but the tip here is to divide your items up between your bags. Don't put all your underwear in one bag. If that's the bag that gets stolen or lost, or even just delayed, it will affect your holiday rather badly. Instead, by sharing the items between bags, if one goes missing or is held up, you can still manage for at least a while.

Make sure your name and destination information are clearly attached to every single bag, and it's a good idea to duplicate this information inside the bag too- just in case the ticket gets torn off or removed for some reason. You will be given a stub for your luggage ticket - keep this safe! How many thousands of these go missing each year is a mystery. If the worst does happen, and your case goes missing, make sure you report this as soon as possible. Don't go looking for it, report it first then help look for it.

Carryon bags and those placed in overhead compartments are great, but make sure you avoid putting heavy items in them. Each year a surprising number of people are admitted into medical care for head injuries cause by bags falling out of overhead storage. Remember, there are certain items that must never be taken onboard, including sealed cans and containers. The airline will be able to provide you with a current list. With security such an important issue at the moment, this is likely to be more rigid, and more carefully imposed than previously.

Finally, always make sure you keep your luggage with you, and never leave it unattended, even for a moment. Leaving a bag with a friendly looking stranger while you nip to the loo is simply not acceptable in this day and age. You'll have to plan for such an eventuality. If that means taking less, or even taking a bottle - so be it, for the sake of your peace of mind, and everyone else's security.

There are other bits of advice, but these form the basis of the most common mistakes. Follow at least this advice, and common sense, and you should help to minimize the risk of any upset to your otherwise well planned trip.