What to do when an airline loses your luggage

A lot of unexpected things that happen when traveling. A delayed flight may seem like a pretty bad thing, however, a mishandled bag (lost or delayed) can be worse. Whether you would have to jump through hoops to get your luggage bag or be lucky to have it back immediately, here’s what you have to do:

Inform and report

Proceed to report your missing luggage to the airline or baggage desk immediately. It is important that the airline is informed as soon as possible rather than waiting to tell them about what had happened. Certain airlines have a duration as to when you need to file a complaint. Also, they would have to reimburse your necessary purchases while waiting to retrieve your luggage.

Make a list

Lists are a big help. Providing a full description of your luggage, the bag tag attached with the details on it, and, most of all, a list of all the things inside could help make tracking easier. Also, make sure to keep your baggage claim stubs as these are very important references for finding lost luggage.

Be aware of your reimbursement rights

It’s not fun having to wear the same clothes for longer than you planned, so request for emergency supplies. While not all airlines provide the basic necessities during this time, it is a must that you keep the receipts of all expenses incurred. When requesting a reimbursement these will surely come in handy for you. Find out about reimbursement from both from the airline and your travel insurance.

If worse comes to worst and your luggage has been officially declared lost, file a claim. Laws, such as the United States’ Department of Transportation and the Montreal Convention require the airline to cover the value of the bag and the items in it, at a depreciated cost. When you get compensation for your lost bag, be sure to provide all evidence (receipts) and be firm during the entire process of retrieval.

Stay on top of your search

Be it a website, complaint number, or contact number, ask for all the details you will need so you can personally monitor the search progress for your bag. While you are firm in constantly making follow-ups, remember to stay patient as well.

There’s no denying that situations like this do happen and can be stressful; however keeping a clear and composed mind will make things easier to deal with than snapping at people who are trying to help you.

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