Traveling opens up new worlds and creates lasting memories, but sometimes the journey comes with unexpected hiccups—particularly when it comes to our luggage. Whether it’s a suitcase that never makes it to the carousel or one that arrives looking like it’s been through a warzone, dealing with lost or damaged baggage can quickly turn excitement into frustration. The key to navigating these situations lies not just in knowing what to do after the fact, but in preparing wisely before you even set foot in an airport.

Preparation is your first and most powerful line of defense. It starts long before you zip up your suitcase. Always photograph your luggage, both inside and out, before you check it in. These images serve as invaluable evidence if you need to file a claim later. Make sure your contact information—including your name, phone number, and email address—is securely attached to the bag itself and placed inside as well. It’s a simple step, but one that significantly increases the chances of your bag being returned to you if the external tag is torn off.

When packing, think about what you absolutely cannot afford to lose. Valuables, critical medications, important documents, and electronics should always travel with you in your carry-on. Airlines explicitly advise against checking these items for good reason: checked baggage is handled multiple times, transferred between planes, and occasionally subjected to rough conditions. No compensation claim can truly replace a one-of-a-kind item or a necessary prescription. Furthermore, consider investing in a distinctive suitcase. A bright color, unique pattern, or a simple ribbon tied to the handle can make your bag easily identifiable on the carousel and less likely to be mistakenly taken by another passenger.

Despite the best preparations, things can still go wrong. The moment you realize your bag is missing, do not leave the airport. Head directly to the airline’s baggage service office, which is usually located in the baggage claim area. This is a critical window of opportunity. You must report the issue to an airline representative in person and before you exit the airport. They will initiate a trace on your luggage using the unique baggage tag number from your check-in receipt. This is why it is absolutely essential to keep your boarding pass and baggage claim tag safe until you have your bag in hand. Without that number, the search becomes infinitely more difficult.

The agent will file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This document is the official record of your missing luggage and is the foundation of any future claim. Be meticulous when providing details. Describe your bag’s brand, size, color, and any distinguishing features. This is where those pre-trip photos become incredibly useful. Ensure all the information on the report is accurate before you leave the counter, and get a copy of the report for your own records, along with a direct reference number you can use to follow up.

In the hours and days that follow, your role shifts to active follow-up. Use the reference number provided to track your bag’s status through the airline’s online tracking system. However, don’t rely on technology alone. Be politely persistent. If updates are infrequent, call the baggage service office for a status update. Keep all receipts for any essential items you have to purchase while you’re without your belongings, such as toiletries, clothing, or medication. Most airlines are obligated to reimburse you for reasonable interim expenses, but they will require proof of purchase.

If your bag is located, the airline will typically deliver it to your address. Upon its arrival, inspect it immediately. If it has been delivered damaged, the process for reporting it is similar to reporting a lost bag. You must report the damage to the airline, usually within a specific timeframe—often within 24 hours of delivery for domestic flights and seven days for international travel. Document the damage thoroughly with clear photographs from multiple angles. This visual evidence is crucial for your claim.

Filing a claim for compensation is the next step. Airlines have different policies and limits of liability, which are often outlined in their Contract of Carriage. Compensation for a lost bag is not based on the bag’s original purchase price but on its current depreciated value. For damaged items, you can claim the cost of repair or the depreciated value. This is often where travelers feel the most shortchanged, as sentimental value and replacement cost are rarely considered. If you’re carrying particularly valuable items, consider purchasing excess valuation insurance from the airline at check-in or, better yet, securing a separate travel insurance policy that specifically covers high-value items before your trip.

The process requires patience and detailed record-keeping. Submit your claim with the airline, including all supporting documentation: the PIR, receipts for interim expenses, photos of the damaged luggage or its contents, and any correspondence you’ve had with the airline. Be clear, concise, and factual in your description. If the airline’s settlement offer is unsatisfactory, you have the right to escalate your complaint. This can involve writing a formal letter to the airline’s customer relations department and, if necessary, filing a complaint with the relevant national aviation authority, such as the Department of Transportation in the U.S., which oversees airline consumer protection rules.

While the entire experience can be incredibly stressful, understanding your rights and the established procedures empowers you to advocate for yourself effectively. The vast majority of misplaced bags are eventually reunited with their owners. By preparing in advance, acting swiftly at the airport, and maintaining organized records, you can navigate the turbulence of lost or damaged luggage and get back to enjoying your journey.