Tips for When Airlines Lose Your Luggage

In today's traveling world, you often hear horror stories of airlines losing luggage. Where that luggage goes is often unknown, but what is known is the frustration you feel without your clothing and other essential items. Even more so if the situation isn't resolved quickly. So, what should you do if your luggage is lost? Well, here are a few tips to help you should you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

1. Before panicking, take a look around you. Often the luggage is taken off by airport personnel and moved not far to make room for another arriving flight. Often in airports you will see groups of suitcases together, take a look at these groups of luggage to see if your luggage has been put in there. You may luck out and find it there!

2. Always have your baggage claim ticket handy! Although you may have the mentality that this won't happen to you - it can. It did to me, and take my advice and keep your baggage claim ticket. You'll be thankful you have it.

3. File a lost baggage claim immediately. It is likely that you will be tired from travelling, and the last thing you will want to do is to file a lost claim, but it's important that this is done immediately. The sooner the process is started the sooner your luggage will hopefully be found.

4. Be specific! This means you need to be able to describe the colour, size, and make of your suitcase. The more descriptive that you can be the easier it will be for the airline to locate your luggage. If there are any specific markings these can be very helpful.

5. Think about what you packed. In the event that the airline is unable to locate your luggage it's important that you can describe the items that you packed, especially if you have packed any specifically expensive items.

6. Ask for compensation. Many airlines will provide a clothing allowance after 24 hours if your luggage has not been found. Ask what the clothing allowance is and what the reimbursement process is.

7. Follow up! Make sure you obtain a contact number from the baggage department, and follow up daily to see where they are in their search.

And last but not least, don't give up hope. Although it may take time most luggage is eventually found. Mine was found within 48 hours, and yours can be too!