Though bags go missing from airlines quite frequently, only a very small percentage (approximately 0.005 per cent) of all checked baggage is permanently lost. Most bags will catch up with you within hours (usually the next flight on your route) and the airline will deliver it to you by courier. However, in the event that you become separated from your bag, here’s the information you need to track your bag down.
What must an airline do?
All airlines are liable for compensation if baggage is delayed or damaged due to their own negligence but this liability doesn’t include fragile articles, liquids, or perishable items. Most airlines are not liable for damage to the following (at airline discretion):
A little extra care can keep your bags safer (and with you) while you travel
The airlines have upgraded baggage tracking technology so reuniting you with your misplaced bags is much quicker and easier. As a passenger, you can take certain precautions that can help the airlines return items you leave on a plane or get your bags back to you quickly. As you pack, follow these tips:
- If you must travel with expensive items, you can buy excess valuation coverage on the spot at the ticket counter or check with your insurance company before you start your trip.
- Keep prescriptions, travel documents (especially UPC stubs for your checked bags), cash, and jewellery with you as you travel. Buy a bag or money belt to hide your valuables.
- Buy a suitcase with a slide-in window for additional identification (since attached bag tags can be easily torn off) and ensure the address information on your bag tag is up-to-date.
- Tie a coloured ribbon on your bag. Consider putting additional identification inside your bag along with a copy of your itinerary to help the airlines know if they should send your bags to your travel destination or your home.
- Put your name and address on every bag. Due to stricter bag limits, carry-on suitcases and bags you’ve managed to get on board in the past may now need to be checked.
- If your bag doesn’t arrive in the baggage-claim area, find the baggage agent on duty immediately. Your bags may have been loaded on a nonstop flight even though you had a stopover and may be locked up in the agent's area for safe keeping.
- If your baggage is really not there, do not leave the airport before completing the paperwork for the baggage agent. Fill out all information about your bags on the forms provided and be as detailed as possible. Get a phone number to call in case you need to follow up.
- Ask for basic amenities such as toothbrush, toothpaste, and razor. Most airlines will provide these for you while you wait.
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated March 2009
