Nash Travel Management founder Olivia Nash Richardson advised travelers to make a detailed list and photo of what’s packed in luggage in case proof is needed.
“Save this information on your phone so you know the approximate cost of what you are packing,” the expert explained.
In addition to the contents, Olivia recommends taking a photo of the luggage itself, noting the brand, dimensions, and other distinguishing features. So, if the suitcase has not arrived at your destination, it is recommended that you immediately go to the baggage check-in desk of your airline with all the photos and stay at the airport until the problem is resolved.
The expert believes that it would be appropriate to study your airline’s policy regarding lost luggage before traveling. For example, in the United States, if an airline loses or delays luggage, the Department of Transportation requires it to reimburse passengers for “the reasonable, verifiable, and actual incidental costs they may incur while their luggage is delayed, subject to maximum liability limits.” For domestic flights, this liability limit is $3,800 and about $1,780 for most international flights.
If a passenger has problems getting compensation from an airline, experts advise filing a complaint directly with the Department of Transportation.
Richardson opined that luggage loss is “not uncommon, but not that common either.” From her own experience, she estimated that about 30 percent of lost bags never find their owners.