It’s a traveller’s worst nightmare: you arrive at your destination, but your luggage doesn’t. Whether due to a mishandled transfer or theft, lost luggage can turn a holiday stressful. Here’s how to handle it if your suitcase fails to land.
First, report the missing bag at the airline’s desk in the baggage reclaim hall before leaving the airport. If no one is there, call the airline. File a property irregularity report (PIR), an official document needed for tracking and claims. You’ll need your baggage claim tag number, flight details, a description of the luggage, contact information, and a delivery address.
The airline will give you a reference number. Keep it safe and use it to check the WorldTracer website for updates. If abroad, you may be reimbursed for essential items like toiletries, clothing, and medication. Some airlines offer a daily allowance; others require receipts. At home, compensation is limited as essentials are presumed available.
If found, the airline must return your luggage to you. After 21 days, it is declared lost; you can then claim compensation directly from the airline. Under the Montreal Convention, the maximum is about £1,000. Travel insurance may cover excess amounts.
To reduce risk, label luggage inside and out, remove old tags, and take a photo before checking in. Consider a tracking device. Fly direct when possible, and retrieve bags quickly from the carousel. Pack essentials and valuables in hand luggage.
