If an airline lost your luggage, you're entitled to compensation up to $4,700 (domestic) or ~$2,000 (international). But the amount you actually receive depends on how you file and negotiate. Here's how to maximize your compensation.
Maximum Compensation Amounts
US Domestic Flights
$4,700 per passenger under DOT regulation 14 CFR Part 254
This is the maximum — your actual compensation depends on the value of your bag and contents
Airlines pay the depreciated value, not original price
International Flights
1,519 SDR per passenger (~$2,000 USD) under the Montreal Convention
SDR value fluctuates with exchange rates
Covers all Montreal Convention signatory countries (essentially all international flights)
EU Airlines
Montreal Convention limits apply to both domestic and international flights
Under EU Regulation 889/2002, there's no lower domestic limit
What Counts as "Lost"?
A bag is typically declared lost after 21 days of being delayed (see all baggage claim deadlines). Before that, it's classified as delayed, and you can claim interim expenses:
Days 1-5: Most bags are found and returned
Days 5-14: Airline continues searching
Day 21: Bag officially declared lost
After day 21: You can file for full compensation
How Much Will You Actually Get?
Airlines calculate compensation using depreciated value. Here's a realistic example:
Bag contents valued at $2,500 (original prices):
Suitcase ($300, 3 years old): ~$200 after depreciation
Clothing ($800, mixed ages): ~$550 after depreciation
Shoes ($200, 1 year old): ~$160 after depreciation
Toiletries ($100, new): ~$100
Electronics ($600, 2 years old): ~$350 after depreciation
Books and misc ($500): ~$400 after depreciation
Depreciated total: ~$1,760
On a domestic flight, you'd receive up to $1,760. On an international flight, you'd be capped at ~$2,000 (but the depreciated value is already below that here).
Interim Expenses While Waiting
While your bag is delayed (before it's declared lost), you can claim interim expenses:
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo
Clothing: Underwear, socks, one change of basic clothes
Essentials: Any item you need immediately
Typical reimbursement: $50-$100/day
Keep ALL receipts — no receipt, no reimbursement
5 Tips to Maximize Your Compensation
Document everything BEFORE you fly — take photos of bag contents, keep receipts in a separate location
File the PIR at the airport — never leave without this (see our complete filing guide)
Itemize with detail — "blue North Face jacket, purchased March 2024, $180" is better than "jacket, $180"
Don't accept the first offer — airlines often offer 30-50% of actual value
Escalate strategically — DOT complaint → demand letter → small claims court (see our appeal guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get compensation for sentimental items?
Unfortunately, airlines only compensate for the monetary value of items. Sentimental value, irreplaceable items (family heirlooms, photos), and emotional distress are generally not compensable under airline liability rules.
What if my bag is found after I received compensation?
You must return the compensation or return the bag. Airlines typically contact you to arrange return of the found bag and adjustment of the compensation.
Should I file with my travel insurance too?
Yes, if you have travel insurance that covers baggage loss. You can claim from both the airline and your insurer, but the total cannot exceed your actual loss. Insurance can cover amounts above the airline's liability limit.
How Major Airlines Handle Lost Bags
The process and timeline for lost bag compensation varies between airlines. Here's what to expect from major carriers:
US Carriers
American Airlines: American declares bags lost after 5 days for domestic and 21 days for international flights. They require itemized lists with receipts or proof of purchase. Claims are handled through their online portal.
Delta Air Lines: Delta uses WorldTracer to track lost bags globally. After the bag is declared lost (21 days for international), you can submit your claim for the full depreciated value online.
United Airlines: United follows the standard 21-day declaration period. They require documentation including purchase receipts, credit card statements, or comparable product listings as proof of value.
Southwest Airlines: Southwest will search for your bag and deliver it when found. If declared lost, they process claims through their customer relations department.
Budget Carriers
Spirit Airlines: Spirit requires thorough documentation for lost bag claims. Their excluded items list is more extensive, so review it carefully before filing.
Frontier Airlines: Frontier processes lost bag claims similarly to Spirit — detailed documentation is essential for a successful outcome.
International Airlines
Turkish Airlines: Turkish Airlines follows Montreal Convention timelines. Claims for lost bags are processed after the 21-day waiting period and require complete documentation.
Lufthansa: As an EU carrier, Lufthansa applies Montreal Convention protections to all flights. They have a structured claims process with clear documentation requirements.
Emirates: Emirates has a well-organized lost baggage process with online tracking and claims submission. They tend to respond within 30 days of receiving complete documentation.
To find your airline's specific lost baggage process, timelines, and contact information, visit our airline directory.