We have detailed information on claiming baggage compensation below. Currently, we recommend that you file baggage compensation claims directly with the airline. If your flight was also delayed or canceled, AirHelp can check whether you’re eligible for compensation and help claim it.

That sinking feeling you get in your stomach when you don’t see your suitcase at the baggage claim is not how you want to leave the airport. Fortunately, if your luggage is lost, there are steps you can take to get your luggage back and get reimbursed for related expenses. The airline—and any insurance policies you have—might reimburse you for daily expenses and the replacement value of your lost items, but taking action right away is essential. Here are a few steps to take when your luggage is lost.

How do I file an airline baggage claim?

Damaged American domestic airline bags:

1. Keep boarding passes and baggage receipts.

2. Any travel document with your booking reference number can replace your boarding pass.

3. The airline assigns a six-digit code to your reservation.

4. Report damaged bags to airport workers promptly.

5. If you can’t notify the airline before leaving the airport, you may be able too thereafter.

6. Report property irregularities (damage claim form).

7. Reporting damage to the airline may need this form.

8. Check and repair your luggage.

9. Ideally before departure the Airline will fix, replace, or pay.

10. Claim airline damage.

11. The airline may deny responsibility for individual goods, but if you can prove their fault, you may sue them.

How to determine if your luggage is lost

To start, you need to know how to determine whether your bags are, in fact, missing. This sounds silly but there are some instances where bags appear to be lost even when they’re not. Before the panic sets in, start with these important steps:

• Be patient
• Look elsewhere
• Stay calm

How to report a missing bag

1. Locate the baggage desk for the airline that operated your final flight.
2. Inform the agent about your missing bag.
3. File a missing baggage report.
4. Ask what the airline will cover.

What to do if your baggage is delayed

As noted above, some “lost” bags may be simply delayed in getting to you. Ideally, a carrier’s baggage agent (or even the airline’s app) can tell you exactly where the bag was last scanned. It may only be a matter of hours or just a day or two before you are reunited with your suitcase.