Baggage Delay & Loss Compensation
Lost or delayed luggage? Under the Montreal Convention, you can claim up to €1,300 (approximately 1,288 SDR) for expenses and losses.
Flight Delayed or Cancelled?
Get up to €600 compensation
Understanding Baggage Compensation
Baggage issues are covered by the Montreal Convention, which is separate from EU261 (the regulation covering flight delays and cancellations). The Montreal Convention is an international treaty that applies to most international flights worldwide.
The maximum liability is expressed in Special Drawing Rights (SDR), an international currency unit. Currently, the limit is 1,288 SDR, which is approximately €1,300 or £1,100 depending on exchange rates.
What's the Difference: Delayed, Damaged, or Lost?
- Delayed: Your bag doesn't arrive with you but is returned later. You can claim expenses for essentials purchased while waiting.
- Damaged: Your bag or contents are damaged during the flight. Claim within 7 days of receiving the bag.
- Lost: After 21 days, if the airline hasn't found your bag, it's officially "lost." You can claim the full value up to the limit.
Important: This Is Separate from Flight Compensation
Baggage claims are handled separately from EU261 flight delay claims. You can potentially claim both if your flight was delayed AND your baggage was lost/delayed. They are two different compensation streams.
Types of Baggage Claims
Delayed Baggage
Damaged Baggage
Lost Baggage
What Expenses Are Covered?
How to Claim for Baggage Issues
Report Immediately
Before leaving the airport, visit the airline's baggage desk and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Get a copy and reference number.
Keep All Receipts
Purchase only essential items and keep all receipts. Take photos of receipts as backup.
Track Your Bag
Use the airline's tracking system. Most bags are found within 24-48 hours.
Submit Written Claim
Within 21 days, submit a written claim with receipts, PIR number, and flight details.
Pro Tips for Baggage Claims
📸 Document Your Packed Items
Before traveling, photograph your packed bag contents. This helps prove the value of lost items later.
💎 Carry Valuables in Hand Luggage
Airlines have limited liability for valuables. Keep jewelry, electronics, and important documents in your carry-on.
🏷️ Use Clear Luggage Tags
Proper identification helps reunite you with your bag faster if it goes astray.
🛡️ Consider Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance can provide additional coverage beyond airline liability limits.
Need Help With Flight Compensation?
While baggage claims go directly to airlines, if your flight was also delayed or cancelled, you may qualify for additional compensation:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I claim for delayed baggage?
Under the Montreal Convention, you can claim up to approximately €1,300 (1,288 SDR) for delayed, lost, or damaged baggage. This covers reasonable expenses for essential items while your bag is missing.
What counts as a reasonable expense for delayed baggage?
Reasonable expenses include toiletries, basic clothing, essential medications, and items needed for your trip purpose (e.g., business attire for a conference). Luxury items and excessive purchases are typically not covered.
How long before delayed baggage is considered lost?
Baggage is typically considered lost after 21 days. At this point, you can claim for the full value of the bag and contents (up to the Montreal Convention limit) rather than just delayed baggage expenses.
Do I need to report delayed baggage immediately?
Yes, report missing baggage before leaving the airport. Fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airline's baggage desk. You have 21 days to submit a written claim for delayed baggage.