It's every passenger's nightmare: before the vacation has even begun, a thief steals your suitcase at the airport. Chief Inspector Josef Pichlmeier from the police station at Munich Airport offers travelers five important tips to help protect themselves from luggage theft:

One hand on the suitcase, the carry-on bag over the shoulder: that's how travelers get to and through check-in safely. When you take out your wallet, passport or ticket, it's best to hold the items firmly in your hands - don't put them down, even just briefly on a table.

Travelers are often stressed, and the atmosphere at the airport is usually hectic. Allowing enough time can help keep you calm and avoid distractions.

Going to the bathroom with a suitcase and hand luggage is a challenge. But still - leaving your luggage with a stranger? "No way," warns the police chief. It's better to stay with your suitcase until it's checked in.

At the security checkpoint, it is advisable to pack as many things as possible into your bag rather than placing them loosely into the basket for the X-ray machine. This is especially true for jewelry and other valuables. Often, the basket goes through the security check before you, and a watch lying loose in the basket is quickly stolen while you are still held up at the checkpoint.

Few suitcases are stolen at the baggage carousel in the arrivals hall. However, they are likely to get mixed up - in either case, your suitcase is gone. Eye-catching stickers or tags can help you quickly recognize you suitcase at the baggage carousel and not to lose sight of it.