What to Do If Your Luggage is Lost

Losing your luggage can be a stressful experience, but knowing your rights and the steps to take can help resolve the situation effectively. Whether your bag is delayed, damaged, or permanently lost, this guide outlines what you need to do and what compensation you may be entitled to.

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Immediate Steps to Take

1. Report the Issue Immediately

• At the airport: Go to the airline's baggage service desk (usually located near the baggage claim area) and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
• Provide details about your luggage (size, color, brand, unique identifiers).
• Keep a copy of the PIR for your records.

2. Retain Documentation

• Keep your baggage claim tag (issued when you checked your luggage).
• Save your boarding pass, flight ticket, and any related receipts.

3. Check for Updates

• Airlines often provide tracking systems to monitor your luggage’s status. Use the reference number from your PIR to check for updates.

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Delayed Luggage

If your luggage is delayed, airlines are responsible for delivering it to you once it is located. During this time, you may be entitled to reimbursement for essential purchases, such as toiletries and clothing.

What You Should Do:

1. Ask the airline about their policy for delayed baggage and the reimbursement process.
2. Keep receipts for all necessary purchases.
3. Submit a claim to the airline for these expenses.

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Lost Luggage

If your luggage is declared lost (usually after 21 days, or sooner if the airline confirms it cannot locate your bag), you can claim compensation.

Compensation Limits:

• Under the Montreal Convention, airlines are liable for up to 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), roughly €1,600 or $1,700.
• The exact amount varies depending on the value of your belongings and the supporting documentation you provide.

How to File a Claim:

1. Submit a written complaint to the airline within the required timeframe (usually 7–21 days, depending on the airline and country).
2. Provide evidence, including:
   • A detailed inventory of the lost items and their approximate value.
   • Copies of receipts, if available.
   • The PIR and baggage claim tag.

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Damaged Luggage

If your luggage is returned but damaged, airlines are responsible for repairing or compensating you for the damage.

What to Do:

1. Report the damage to the airline immediately, ideally before leaving the airport.
2. File a written complaint, usually within 7 days of receiving the damaged bag.
3. Provide photos of the damage and any repair receipts.

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Your Rights Under the Montreal Convention

The Montreal Convention provides international standards for airline liability in cases of:

• Delayed luggage: Reimbursement for necessary expenses.
• Lost luggage: Compensation based on the value of items up to the SDR limit.
• Damaged luggage: Repair or replacement costs.

Important Notes:

• Compensation is often limited unless you declared the higher value of your bag at check-in and paid an additional fee.
• Airlines may deny liability for pre-existing damage or items not covered (e.g., fragile goods, electronics, or cash).

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Tips to Minimize Risk

• Use a durable bag: Choose a sturdy suitcase to reduce the risk of damage.
• Label your luggage: Include your name, phone number, and address both inside and outside the bag.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on: Include medications, valuables, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage.
• Consider travel insurance: It can provide additional coverage for lost, delayed, or damaged luggage.