Lost Luggage Compensation: How Much Can You Get?
Airlines must compensate you up to $4,700 for lost bags on US domestic flights (14 CFR Part 254) and up to 1,519 SDR (~$2,000 USD) on international flights (Montreal Convention). You are entitled to the depreciated value of your bag and its contents. You can demand cash — vouchers are not required to be accepted.
Maximum Compensation Limits
US Domestic Flights
$4,700
per passenger, per 14 CFR Part 254 (effective Jan 22, 2025)
International Flights
1,519 SDR
~$2,000 USD, per Montreal Convention (effective Dec 28, 2024)
EU airlines: The Montreal Convention applies to both domestic and international flights under EU Regulation 889/2002, so the 1,519 SDR limit applies even for intra-EU flights.
How to File a Lost Luggage Claim
- 1
Report at the Airport
Go directly to the airline's baggage service office before leaving the airport. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) — this is your official record. Get a copy with your reference number. Most airlines use WorldTracer, so you can track your bag online.
- 2
Wait the 21-Day Period
Airlines typically have 21 days to locate and return your bag. During this time, you can claim interim expenses — reasonable costs for toiletries, clothing, and essentials. Keep all receipts.
- 3
File a Formal Claim
After 21 days (or when the airline declares the bag lost), file your formal compensation claim. Include your PIR number, flight details, and an itemized list of bag contents with values.
- 4
Submit Documentation
Provide as much proof as possible: receipts, credit card statements, photos of items, and the original purchase prices. Airlines apply depreciation — typically 10-20% per year.
- 5
Escalate If Needed
If the airline denies or lowballs your claim, file a DOT complaint at transportation.gov (78% success rate) and send a formal demand letter citing the applicable regulation.
Documentation Checklist
- ✓Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with reference number
- ✓Boarding pass(es) for the flight
- ✓Baggage claim tag / receipt
- ✓Itemized list of bag contents with estimated value and purchase date
- ✓Receipts or credit card statements for items (as many as possible)
- ✓Photos of the bag and contents (if available)
- ✓Receipts for interim expenses (toiletries, clothing, essentials)
- ○Travel insurance policy number (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a bag considered officially lost?
Most airlines declare a bag officially lost after 21 days of being delayed. At that point, you transition from claiming interim expenses to claiming full compensation for the bag and its contents.
Do I have to accept the airline's first offer?
No. Airlines often start with a low offer. You have the right to negotiate. Demand the full depreciated value of your items. You can also demand cash — you are not required to accept travel vouchers or credits.
What if my bag contents are worth more than the liability limit?
If your items exceed the liability limit, consider filing on your travel insurance if you have it. For future flights, you can declare excess value at check-in (for an additional fee) to increase the airline's liability.
How long does it take to receive compensation?
Most airlines respond to claims within 30-60 days. If you escalate through a DOT complaint, airlines are required to acknowledge within 30 days and respond substantively within 60 days.
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