Abstract: A safety device for luggage compartments is disclosed. The device comprises a barrier which substantially covers the opening in a luggage compartment. The barrier is attached to the luggage compartment above the opening and the barrier may be releasably fastened to the luggage compartment below the opening. When in place, the barrier is strong enough to prevent objects from falling out of the luggage compartment. The fastening means of the barrier may be released and a user can access the interior of the luggage compartment. An alternative embodiment is disclosed in which the luggage compartment comprises a slot for storing the barrier. When the barrier is not in use, the barrier may be inserted into the slot where it does not interfere with luggage. A spring means may be provided within the slot for automatically retracting the barrier. The barrier may also comprise a guide track and guide balls for keeping the barrier in its proper position when it is being withdrawn from or inserted into the slot.