What Should You Do If Your Luggage Is Lost, Delayed, or Stolen?
Understanding your options, rights, and next steps when your bags don’t arrive
Standing at the baggage carousel and watching it empty out without your suitcase is one of the most frustrating experiences in travel. Whether your bag is delayed, lost, or stolen, the uncertainty can quickly throw your trip into chaos. What should you do? Who do you talk to? Will you be reimbursed?
Understanding how to act right away, what rights you have, and how to document the situation helps reduce stress and improves your chances of a smoother resolution.
Firstly Report It Before Leaving the Airport
As soon as you realize your luggage hasn’t arrived, go directly to the airline’s baggage service desk, usually located near the carousels. This initial report is critical. It formally records your case and starts the process of locating or compensating for your luggage.
You’ll complete a form known as a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), describing the bag’s appearance and contents. Details matter — include size, color, brand, distinguishing features, and any travel tags.
Tip: Always take a photo of your packed luggage and its contents before traveling. It simplifies the process if a claim becomes necessary.
Be sure to request a copy of your report, and make note of the case or file reference number, along with the representative’s contact information.
Understanding the Type of Luggage Issue
Not all missing luggage scenarios are treated the same. Knowing which category your situation falls into helps clarify your next steps:
| Scenario | Definition | What You Should Do | When Compensation Applies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delayed | Bag expected to arrive on a later flight | File a report, keep receipts for essentials | Typically reimbursed for necessary purchases |
| Lost | Bag not recovered after 21+ days | Submit a detailed claim with itemized value | Eligible for compensation under airline policy |
| Stolen | Bag taken during or after transit | File a police report and insurance claim | May require separate travel or property insurance |
Note: Airlines operate under international rules like the Montreal Convention, which cap compensation amounts. These limits may vary by destination and carrier.
What Can You Do While You Wait?
If your bag is simply delayed, most airlines expect it to arrive within a few days. In the meantime:
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Buy basic clothing, toiletries, or any immediate necessities.
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Keep every receipt. These will be essential when seeking reimbursement.
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Check online tracking tools or follow up via the airline’s app or call center.
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Review your travel or credit card insurance — some policies include daily reimbursement for delayed luggage.
Caution: Don’t assume all purchases will be reimbursed. Spending limits often apply, and "reasonable expenses" may be interpreted differently by each carrier or insurer. Stick to essentials unless clearly authorized.
If your bag is declared lost after 21 days (or earlier, if deemed unrecoverable), you’ll need to submit a formal lost baggage claim. This usually involves listing the value and original purchase price of each item.
If you believe your luggage was stolen, contact local police and file an official theft report. Many travel insurance policies require this as part of their claims process.
Getting Compensation: Know Your Rights
Depending on your circumstances and location, you may qualify for compensation from the airline, your travel insurance, or your credit card provider. Here’s what you may be eligible for:
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Baggage delay coverage: Reimbursement for essentials during the delay period.
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Lost baggage compensation: Payment for the depreciated value of lost contents, up to a policy or carrier cap.
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Theft reimbursement: If covered, insurers may compensate for stolen belongings with proof of ownership and a police report.
Each policy has different conditions, limits, and timelines. Start your claim as soon as possible, and keep a copy of everything you submit.
Be Prepared, Not Caught Off Guard
Whether your luggage is delayed, lost, or stolen, being prepared makes a significant difference. Document what you pack, act immediately if something goes wrong, and keep all receipts and correspondence. Knowing what to do helps turn an unsettling travel moment into a manageable one.
Tip: Keep a change of clothes, medications, and critical documents in your carry-on. It can turn a lost luggage event from a major disruption into a minor inconvenience.