Compensation for lost baggage

Baggage Issues? Here’s How You Can Claim Up to €1,300 in Compensation!

During air travel, checked baggage may be delayed, damaged, or even lost. If you’ve experienced any of these issues, it’s important to know that the airline is responsible for handling your baggage properly, and in certain cases, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

What Are Your Rights If Your Baggage Is Delayed, Damaged, or Lost?

✈ Airlines are obliged to ensure your baggage is delivered properly and on time.
📜 If your bag does not arrive when it should, you can file a compensation claim.
📌 Any basic expenses you incur during the delay (e.g., clothing, toiletries) must be reimbursed by the airline.
🕒 Important: There are strict deadlines for reporting baggage issues, so act quickly.

What to Do If Your Baggage Doesn’t Arrive?

💼 1. Report the problem immediately!
If you arrive at your destination but your bag doesn’t, notify the airline or airport customer service right away.
Ask for written confirmation of the delay or loss.

📝 2. File a detailed report!
At the airport’s “Lost & Found” office, you can fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) — this is essential for any compensation claim.
Take a photo of the report and keep a copy for your records.

💰 3. Keep all receipts!
If you must purchase essentials due to delayed baggage, save all receipts so the airline can reimburse your expenses.

When Are You Entitled to Compensation?

🔹 Delayed baggage – Your luggage does not arrive on time.
🔹 Lost baggage – The airline is unable to locate your luggage within a specified time (typically 5–21 days).
🔹 Damaged baggage – Your luggage is visibly or internally damaged.

Common causes of baggage problems include:

• Incorrect labeling or mishandling during airport transfers

• Bags being lost in the airline’s system

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount depends on the country or region where the travel takes place:

🌍 European Union – Up to €1,300 under EU regulations
🇬🇧 United Kingdom – Up to £1,000 for lost or damaged baggage
🇺🇸 USA – Up to $3,500 for domestic flights
🇨🇦 Canada – Up to CAD 2,350 liability by the airline

How to Submit a Compensation Claim?

📄 Required documents:

✅ Boarding pass and baggage check-in receipt
✅ Copy of the report issued by the airline
✅ Receipts for essential purchases made due to the delay
✅ Detailed description of the lost or damaged baggage

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ How long does it take for the airline to deliver delayed baggage?
📌 Usually within 3 days, but longer delays are possible.

❓ What if I miss my baggage on a connecting flight?
📌 Notify the airline at the connection airport so they can forward it to your final destination.

❓ Does the airline cover the cost of everything in the bag?
📌 Airline policies vary. Valuable or fragile items (e.g., jewelry, laptops) may not be fully covered.

Don’t Miss Out on Your Rights!

If you’ve encountered baggage issues, take immediate action. The law gives you the right to claim financial compensation — don’t miss this opportunity!