Compensation for Delayed and Lost Baggage on Flights in the EU, USA, and International Routes

For domestic flights within the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) allows compensation up to $3,800 per passenger for delayed, lost, or damaged baggage. While airlines may offer compensation beyond this limit, they are not required to do so.

Airlines cannot impose arbitrary daily spending limits for expenses incurred due to delayed or mishandled baggage. For example, an airline cannot set a $50 daily cap, but they must reimburse reasonable, documented expenses incurred as a result of the baggage delay, such as essentials like toiletries or clothing. Keep all receipts to support your claim.

If your luggage is lost during an international or EU flight, follow these steps to ensure you are properly compensated for the inconvenience and costs associated with lost baggage:

1. Keep Your File Reference Number Safe

After reporting your lost baggage, the airline will issue you a file reference number through the Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This reference number is essential for tracking your claim and is used to prove your case for lost luggage compensation. Bags are typically considered lost 21 days after the expected arrival, or sooner if the airline acknowledges their loss.

2. Retain Receipts for Replacement Items

While waiting for your luggage to be returned, you may need to purchase essential items such as toiletries, underwear, or clothing. Keep all receipts for these purchases, as you may be eligible to be reimbursed for reasonable expenses related to replacing these essential items.

3. Create a Detailed List of the Contents of Your Lost Bags

Compile an inventory of the items in your lost luggage, including any receipts or proof of purchase for those items. Though airlines may have limits on what they will reimburse, providing documentation of your packed items will strengthen your claim for compensation.

4. File a Compensation Claim with the Airline

Once you have all necessary documentation, submit your compensation claim to the airline. This should include receipts for replacement items, a list of the contents of your lost luggage, and any related expenses. Make sure to adhere to the airline’s filing deadlines for lost luggage claims.

By following these steps, you can enhance your chances of successfully securing compensation for lost luggage on EU and international flights. Always check the airline’s specific guidelines and policies to ensure a smooth claims process.

Experiencing lost luggage during a domestic flight in the United States can be incredibly frustrating, but knowing the proper steps to take can help you secure compensation for your missing baggage. Here’s a detailed guide on how to claim compensation for lost luggage:

1. Keep Your File Reference Number
After you report your lost luggage to the airline, you will be provided with a file reference number when you complete the Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This number is critical for tracking your claim and proving the loss of your bags. Keep this reference number safe for future correspondence.

2. Save Receipts for Replacement Items
While you wait for your luggage to be returned, you may need to purchase essential items like toiletries, clothes, or other necessities. Keep all receipts for these replacement items, as they can be submitted as part of your claim for reimbursement.

3. Create a List of the Items in Your Lost Bags
Document the contents of your lost luggage as accurately as possible. It’s helpful to include receipts or any proof of purchase for the items inside. Although airlines may have limitations on compensation, providing a detailed inventory will help ensure you get reimbursed for most of your lost items.

4. File a Compensation Claim with the Airline
Once you have gathered your receipts, inventory list, and other supporting documents, contact the airline to initiate your claim for lost luggage compensation. Be sure to submit the claim within the airline’s designated time frame, and include all relevant receipts and documentation, including those for essential items and the contents of your luggage.

By following these steps and staying organized, you can improve your chances of receiving compensation for your lost luggage during domestic flights within the US. Always check the airline’s specific policies and deadlines to ensure a smooth and timely claims process.

If your luggage is damaged while traveling on an EU or international flight, it’s important to know the necessary steps to secure compensation. First, make sure to keep your boarding pass and checked luggage receipts. If you don’t have your boarding pass, any other flight-related document with a booking reference number will suffice. This reference is typically a six-character alphanumeric code assigned by the airline.

Report the damage as soon as possible, ideally before leaving the airport. You must notify the airline within 7 days of receiving your bags, but prompt reporting ensures the airline properly documents the issue.

Next, complete a damage claim form or Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which is required by most airlines. You can fill this out either at the airport or online, depending on the airline’s process.

If possible, present your damaged luggage for inspection before leaving the airport. The airline will evaluate the damage and will work with you to resolve the issue, either by repairing, replacing the luggage, or offering compensation.

Lastly, if any items inside your luggage are damaged, file a claim for those items as well. Keep in mind that airlines may have limits on what they will reimburse, but providing clear documentation and evidence will strengthen your claim for compensation or replacement.

Following these steps will help you navigate the process of claiming compensation for damaged baggage on EU or international flights. Always check your airline’s specific policies and deadlines to ensure a smooth claims process.

If your baggage is damaged during a domestic flight within the United States, it’s important to know the steps for securing compensation. Start by keeping your boarding pass and checked luggage receipts. If you don’t have your boarding pass, any flight document with a booking reference number will work. As soon as you receive your damaged bags, report the issue to the airline, ideally before leaving the airport. If that’s not possible, check the airline’s policy to see when and how you can report the damage.

Next, fill out a damage claim form or Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which you can usually do in person or online, depending on the airline’s process. It’s essential to present your bags for inspection, preferably before leaving the airport. The airline will assess the damage and offer a solution, whether that’s repairing or replacing the luggage or providing compensation.

If items inside your bags are damaged, you can file a separate claim for those items. Keep in mind that airlines may have limitations on what they will reimburse, but providing clear evidence and a well-documented claim will strengthen your case for compensation.