Here's a worrying fact: A staggering 24.8 million bags were misdirected or lost by airlines in 2018. Which, amazingly, was down from 46.9 million in 2007. So, where does all that lost luggage end up? In short, in the hands of someone else.
Introducing, Unclaimed Baggage, a US retailer which purchases and resells lost baggage once the airline's 90-day tracing period has expired. For the last 50 years, Unclaimed Baggage has operated a massive 50,000-square-foot brick-and-mortar store in Scottsboro, Alabama where shoppers can peruse designer clothes, diamond jewelry, shoes, musical instruments, sports equipment and much, much more. Now, Unclaimed Baggage is taking their operations online so anyone can buy a used Coach weekender bag, a Nikon camera, or even a diamond engagement ring and have it shipped to their doorstep.
“Our customers have long requested an online version of our in-store shopping experience,” said Unclaimed Baggage CEO Bryan Owens in a statement. “We’re glad that as part of our 50th anniversary, shoppers are now able to experience the thrill of the hunt online.”
The site organizes items into popular categories such as women's apparel, men's apparel, laptops, and cameras, but also offers curated sections like Unusual Finds and Luxe Finds where you might discover a discounted 18K Butterfly Flower ring from Tiffany & Co. or a leather embossed pool cue. Anything that can't be sold is donated to those in need or recycled.
Go ahead and do some shopping this weekend and make sure to keep a tight hold on your luggage the next time you take a trip.
Most popular on Time Out
- American Airlines will stop blocking seats on July 1
- This map highlights the most popular fast food chain in each state during quarantine
- Online party games to play remotely with friends
- Get paid $20,000 (plus free beer and gear) to hike the Appalachian Trail next year
- Online trivia games to play remotely