What to Do If Your Luggage is Lost While Flying

Although lost luggage is often pivotable in the plot of a novel or movie, the actual statistics for lost luggage are small. In fact, US Airways reports the largest number of lost luggage with just 9.6 average losses per thousand bags handled. Other airlines report even smaller percentages. Numbers are little comfort, however, if luggage does go astray while traveling. For an approximate twenty million air travelers in the United States last year, an average of 10,000 reports of lost luggage were filed per day. It can happen and if it does, checking into a hotel without a business wardrobe or necessary toiletries is never pleasant.

On a brighter note, 98% of lost luggage is returned to the owners in a day or two but that can be little consolation if the luggage shows up after the major business presentation. A lack of federal and international guidelines regarding lost luggage leave travelers in the hands of the airlines.

Most airlines, however, have clear cut rules that require reimbursement for luggage that is lost forever. The US Department of Transportation allows up to $2,800 to be reimbursed for luggage lost on domestic flights. Amounts on luggage lost on international flights varies.

Airlines seldom take the blame for lost luggage, citing factors like bad weather, air traffic controllers, and baggage handlers.

The best way to avoid lost luggage is to carry bags onboard. Before making a trip, ask about the carry on size and weight restrictions. Pack a bag that meets the specifications and keep the bag close to prevent lost luggage.

If you do have to check bags, prepare for the worst. Make a list of all items in any luggage checked including the value of each item and never check anything of value. Put a note into each piece of luggage that includes contact information at the destination and at home. Be sure to include cell phone numbers on the note.

If the bags don't reach the final destination, be firm with the airlines. Begin with the customer service reps and if a business meeting looms that requires professional attire, ask about reimbursement. Get the name of any airline employee who promises reimbursement and complete any necessary forms.

If replacement items are purchased, keep every receipt to turn into the airline. Be reasonable in purchasing replacement items - airlines may balk at luxury items when plain everyday goods woud serve as well. Remember that even if lost luggage is located, the airline still is required to reimburse passengers for necessary items purchased.

If flying on more than one airline en route, check with the baggage claim office at the destination airport.

Keep copies of all receipts and document your claim with a letter. Send the letter certified mail to ensure that it reaches the airline and that the letter won't be as lost as the luggage.

Ask the airline about other perks to ease the annoyance of lost luggage. Frequent flyer miles, vouchers, and MCO (miscellaneous charges orders) are all possibilities but most won't offer unless asked.

Many travel insurance plans cover lost luggage as well so if a policy was purchased, check the fine print for detals.

Most important, if luggage is lost en route, be calm and don't panic. Just follow the proper steps to reclaim lost luggage or to be reimbursed.