Lost & Damaged Baggage: How to Obtain Compensation

Q: What deadlines apply for reporting the damage?

Important: the deadlines are strict. For damaged baggage, you must submit your written claim (including receipts) to the airline no later than 7 days after receiving the suitcase. For delayed baggage, you have 21 days from the date on which the suitcase was returned to you.

Are you waiting in vain at the baggage carousel, or has your suitcase arrived badly damaged? That is not only frustrating, but can also lead to unexpected costs. Fortunately, your rights in this area are strongly protected internationally by the Montreal Convention. Airlines are liable for delay, damage or loss of checked baggage up to approximately £1,400 per passenger.

The most important key to success is immediate documentation on the spot and strict compliance with the reporting deadlines. With our forms, you can easily assert your claims for replacement purchases or the loss in value of your baggage.

Important notice on use
This tool is an automated template letter generator (self-help support). It merely inserts your details into standard legal templates. There is no individual assessment of your case. This free service does not replace legal advice from a solicitor. Use is at your own risk, and no guarantee of success is given.

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Checklist: Emergency plan at baggage reclaim

Act quickly as soon as you realise that your suitcase is missing or damaged. Work through these points before leaving the airport:

Checklist

Complete the PIR form: Go IMMEDIATELY to the "Lost & Found" desk and ask for the "Property Irregularity Report" (PIR).
Keep your baggage tag: Do not throw away the small sticker with the baggage registration number that you received at check-in.
Photograph the damage: If your suitcase is damaged, take detailed photos at the airport straight away.
Keep receipts for replacement purchases: Keep all receipts for your toothbrush, shower gel and emergency clothing.
Observe the deadlines: Report damage in writing within 7 days, and delays and expenses within 21 days of receiving the suitcase.

Case examples: How much is reimbursed

Example 1: Suitcase arrives 2 days late on a beach holiday

Lisa flies to Mallorca, but her suitcase is mistakenly sent to London. On the day of arrival, she buys sun cream, dental care products, a bikini and a change of clothes for a total of £130.
Outcome: As these are absolutely necessary replacement purchases for the holiday and she kept all receipts, the airline must reimburse the full £130.

Example 2: Suitcase wheels torn off

Mr Smith collects his 2-year-old hard-shell branded suitcase (purchase price £175) from the carousel and discovers that two wheels have completely broken off. He completes the PIR form immediately.
Outcome: The airline will assess whether the suitcase can be repaired. If that is not possible, it will reimburse the current value of the suitcase (here around £130 to £150). Scratches or dents are generally considered normal wear and tear and are usually not reimbursed.

FAQ: Baggage rights at a glance

What must I do immediately if my suitcase is missing or damaged?

Report the loss or damage BEFORE leaving the baggage reclaim or arrivals area at the baggage services desk (Lost & Found). You must complete a so-called PIR (Property Irregularity Report). Without this document, it is extremely difficult to pursue a claim later.

How much compensation am I entitled to for baggage problems?

Under the Montreal Convention, the airline is liable up to a maximum of approximately 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). This currently corresponds to around £1,300 to £1,400 per passenger. This applies to the current value of the suitcase and its provable contents.

May I buy replacement clothing if my suitcase is delayed?

Yes, you may make necessary replacement purchases (for example toiletries, underwear and basic clothing). However, the purchases must be proportionate (no luxury brands), and you must keep all receipts in order to reclaim the money from the airline. Tip: if you are on your return flight home, clothing purchases are often not reimbursed, as it is assumed that you have everything you need at home.

What deadlines apply for reporting the damage?

Important: the deadlines are extremely strict. For damaged baggage, you must submit your written claim (including receipts) to the airline no later than 7 days after receiving the suitcase. For delayed baggage, you have 21 days from the date on which the suitcase was returned to you. The PIR completed at the airport alone is NOT sufficient to comply with the deadline.