Your suitcase hasn't just 'gone missing' - from the moment it fails to appear on the carousel, the clock starts on what you need to do next to get it back quickly and avoid being left out of pocket. The first steps at the airport shape everything, from tracing the bag to reclaiming the cost of essentials.
Report immediately and get a PIR
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says passengers should report missing baggage to their airline or the baggage handling desk before leaving the airport and complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which creates an official record. That paper trail is important because airlines are generally given the opportunity to trace and return delayed baggage before it is formally considered lost.
Claiming for essential purchases
While the airline searches, you may need to replace items. The CAA's guidance indicates you may be able to recover the cost of 'reasonable' essential purchases made because of the delay, but you'll normally need to keep receipts and show the spending was necessary. Airlines can differ in what they reimburse, so it's safest to stick to basics like toiletries and a change of clothes and keep itemised proof.
Compensation under the Montreal Convention
If your flight is covered by international rules, compensation is underpinned by the Montreal Convention 1999, which sets out airline liability for lost, delayed and damaged baggage. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) notes that compensation is subject to financial limits and the amount depends on each claim. Keep documents such as boarding passes, baggage tags, the PIR reference number, receipts for essential items and any correspondence with the airline.
Deadlines and travel insurance
Deadlines are crucial. Which? warns that strict time limits apply depending on whether luggage is delayed, damaged or declared lost, and advises passengers to make claims as soon as possible. Check your airline's claim process promptly, even if still waiting for updates. Travel insurance can provide another route to recovering money. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) says many policies include cover for delayed or lost baggage, though limits and excesses vary, so check your policy details.
If your claim is rejected
If the airline rejects your claim and you believe you've been treated unfairly, there may be escalation options. The CAA says passengers may be able to take their complaint to an approved alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme if the airline is a member, or consider legal action where appropriate.
