If you haven't experienced it personally, you likely know someone who has -- the feeling of watching the long-empty conveyor belt at baggage claim spin like a depressing carousel of unforeseen expenses, long customer-service lines and frustrating conversations with airline officials while you stand there empty-handed. Fortunately, in the first half of 2012, U.S. airlines reported only three mishandled bags for every 1,000 travelers, according to Department of Transportation statistics reported in "Travel + Leisure" magazine. If you are one of the unlucky few, however, it's important to remember your rights.
The DoT doesn't regulate the definition of when a bag is misplaced or lost, so the designation will vary by airline. If you find yourself without luggage during the airline's designated "misplaced" period -- usually up to one week after landing -- you are entitled to a reasonable stipend from the airline for luggage items, such as clothing and toiletries. Airlines used to give up to $50 per day, but the DoT cracked down on arbitrary limits in 2009, ordering airlines to pay all reasonable and verifiable daily expenses up to $3,300 in total. Now, airlines must pay all of your relevant daily expenses when they temporarily misplace your luggage, but some only pay if you present your receipts after the fact.
If the airline decides your luggage is lost rather than misplaced, you're entitled to up to $3,300 in compensation for the lost items, provided you can prove the value of the items with receipts or pictures. Additionally, if you're flying domestically, you have the right to a full refund of any checked baggage fees you paid. International luggage rights can vary by country. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out a missing luggage claim as quickly as possible after your luggage is deemed lost. You can usually do this in person at the airport or by mail.
Sometimes your luggage arrives at baggage claim, but with a few more dents and scratches than it did when you checked it. According to IndependentTraveler.com, airlines generally won't cover those superficial scratches and dents, but they will normally cover severe damage or tampering. Some airlines require you to produce a receipt for repair costs, but others ask you to use particular repair services to receive reimbursement. It's always best to check your luggage for damage as soon as you receive it and report it right away.
In any situation where you must deal with airline officials to receive reimbursement for mishandled luggage, always maintain your composure. For example, if you are trying to obtain a daily stipend for misplaced luggage and the airline tells you that you must wait 24 hours before you can receive it, stay calm but firmly tell a manager the DoT requires the airline to cover lost luggage expenses. Regardless of the situation, most airlines won't cover lost jewelry or money, so always leave these at home or, if you must bring them, pack them in your carry-on. Many airlines sell additional baggage coverage if you're checking luggage with a value that exceeds the $3,300 limit, but be sure to check with your airline beforehand because not all airlines offer this service.
