Airlines must reimburse reasonable interim expenses when your bag is delayed. Most airlines cover $50-$100/day for essentials like toiletries and clothing. But there are deadlines and rules you need to follow. Here's what to buy, what to keep, and how to get reimbursed.
Looking for the full step-by-step process? See our Delayed Luggage Compensation Guide for the complete filing walkthrough with deadlines and legal rights.
What Airlines Must Reimburse
When your checked bag doesn't arrive with you, airlines are responsible for covering reasonable interim expenses — the cost of essential items you need until your bag arrives.
Covered Expenses
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo)
Underwear and socks
One change of basic clothing appropriate for your destination
Essential medications (if they were in your checked bag)
Baby supplies (formula, diapers, bottles)
Business essentials (if traveling for work)
Not Covered
Designer or luxury items
Shopping beyond what's "reasonable"
Items you already have in your carry-on
Missed event costs
Emotional distress
How Much Can You Expect?
Typical interim expense reimbursement:
Per day: $50-$100 (varies by airline and destination)
Business travelers: May receive higher amounts
International destinations: Airlines sometimes account for higher costs
Duration: Until your bag is delivered, up to 21 days
Some airlines offer upfront cash or a voucher at the airport. This does NOT waive your right to file for additional expenses.
The 21-Day Rule
For international flights under the Montreal Convention (see all baggage claim deadlines):
If your bag arrives within 21 days: File your expense claim within 21 days of receiving the bag
If your bag doesn't arrive by day 21: It's declared "lost" and you can file for full lost luggage compensation (up to 1,519 SDR / ~$2,000)
For US domestic flights, the timeline is similar but check your airline's specific policy.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim
File a PIR at the airport — Property Irregularity Report, before you leave
Track your bag using the WorldTracer reference number
Buy only essentials — keep it reasonable
Keep EVERY receipt — no receipt = no reimbursement
Submit receipts through the airline's online portal with your PIR number
Follow up if you don't hear back within 14 days
Pro Tips
Use a credit card for all purchases so you have backup records
Buy at mid-range stores — a $15 t-shirt from Target is reasonable, a $200 shirt from Nordstrom may not be
Document the delay — screenshot your bag tracking status each day
Note delivery time — record exactly when your bag was delivered to calculate total delay
What If the Airline Says No?
If the airline refuses to reimburse your interim expenses:
Write an appeal citing the Montreal Convention (international) or 14 CFR Part 254 (domestic)
File a DOT complaint at transportation.gov
Send a demand letter with the right legal citations
Demand cash — you're not required to accept travel credits or vouchers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the delay have to be a certain length before I can claim?
No minimum delay is required. Even a few hours of delay entitles you to reasonable necessities if you need them. However, the airline will scrutinize purchases more carefully for very short delays.
What if I'm returning home and my bag is delayed?
You can still claim interim expenses, but the airline may argue you already have necessities at home. Claims are typically smaller for homeward delays but still valid for items you need immediately.
Can I buy a temporary bag to carry my purchases?
Yes, a basic temporary bag (under $30) is generally considered a reasonable interim expense. Don't buy an expensive replacement suitcase — that would not qualify as an interim expense.
How Major Airlines Handle Delayed Baggage
Airlines vary significantly in how they handle interim expenses for delayed bags. Some offer upfront cash at the airport, while others require you to submit receipts after the fact. Here's a breakdown of major carrier policies:
Legacy US Carriers
American Airlines: American provides interim expense reimbursement for reasonable purchases. Keep all receipts and submit them through the online portal with your PIR reference number.
Delta Air Lines: Delta is known for being one of the more responsive airlines on delayed baggage. They may offer an upfront allowance at the airport and reimburse additional expenses with receipts.
United Airlines: United provides interim expense coverage. They use the WorldTracer system for tracking, so you can monitor your bag's status online while accumulating receipts for reimbursement.
Southwest Airlines: Southwest will deliver your delayed bag to your address when found. They reimburse interim expenses with receipts submitted through their claims process.
Budget Carriers
Budget carriers generally offer less generous interim expense policies:
Spirit Airlines: Spirit provides basic interim expense coverage but scrutinizes claims closely. Buy only essentials and keep every receipt.
JetBlue: JetBlue reimburses reasonable interim expenses. Their customer service is generally more responsive than ultra-low-cost carriers.
International Carriers
Turkish Airlines: Follows Montreal Convention requirements for interim expenses. File within 21 days of receiving the delayed bag.
British Airways: BA offers an interim expense allowance and reimburses reasonable purchases. As a oneworld carrier, they coordinate with partner airlines on connecting itineraries.
Emirates: Emirates provides a generous interim expense allowance compared to many carriers and has a structured online claims process.
To see your airline's specific interim expense policy and deadlines, check our airline directory.