Delayed and Lost Bags

• If your bag does not arrive on your flight, proceed to the airline’s baggage office to file a claim. If you have a connecting flight with a different airline, you will file with your last carrier and they will handle your claim.

• The agent will need the address where you want the bag delivered. They will ask if it is okay to leave the bag, even if nobody is there to accept it. Make sure the agent reads back all the information you have given. The delivery company needs the correct address.

• If you are visiting a destination away from home and your bag has been delayed, it’s important to give the airline a local phone number. Delivery drivers generally cannot call foreign phone numbers and they will not deliver without a local contact unless you say it is okay to leave the bag. You should also give the airline your permanent address as well as your vacation address, in case the bag does not arrive before you return home.

• The agent will need to know the size and color of your bag. If you have taken a photo of your bag, it will be very helpful.

• Ask the airline about their policy for reimbursements for items needed until your bag arrives. Be sure to save all receipts.

• Find out how your delayed bag will be delivered to you.

• If you are staying at a hotel, give the airline the name of the person the hotel room is under. When you arrive at the hotel, tell the front desk that you expect a bag to be delivered.

• When all questions are answered, the agent will give you a reference number. With most carriers you can now track your bag on their website.

• For lost bags, Check with your carrier to find out what date your bag is considered lost. This varies with different airlines. Give the airline an itemized list of contents and their value. Include the price of the suitcase.