Incidents such as suitcases getting damaged, delayed, lost, or stolen at the airport are not uncommon. Although frustrating, these situations occur quite frequently and can happen to anyone, even seasoned travelers who have often traveled abroad.
Therefore, it’s important to know the quick steps to take when faced with such unexpected circumstances. With the right response, you can reduce the risk of losses and resolve luggage issues more efficiently.
If Your Suitcase is Delayed
One possible incident when traveling by plane is a suitcase that does not arrive along with its owner. Delayed luggage is usually caused by disruptions in baggage transfer processes, especially during transit flights or busy schedules.
So, what should you do if your luggage is delayed?
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Check Other Baggage Carousels
If your suitcase doesn’t appear on the designated belt, don’t panic. It might have been placed on another carousel due to labeling errors or manual handling. Check several nearby carousels and also pay attention to airport announcements, as changes in baggage belts are sometimes announced over the loudspeaker. -
Report the Issue to the Airline
If your suitcase still can’t be found, immediately report it to the airline’s Lost and Found or baggage claim desk. Provide your boarding pass, baggage tag, and physical description of your suitcase. Staff will help track it down and issue a report number as proof of your claim. The sooner you report it, the faster your luggage can be located. -
Request Delivery to Your Accommodation Address
If your luggage is delayed, airlines usually deliver it free of charge to your destination address, such as your hotel or accommodation in the destination country. Make sure to provide the complete address and an active contact number to ensure efficient delivery. -
Keep Receipts for Essential Purchases
While waiting for your luggage, you may need to buy essential items like clothes, toiletries, or other personal necessities. Keep all receipts, as in many cases, airlines will reimburse some of these expenses as compensation.
If Your Suitcase is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged
Unlike a delayed suitcase, cases of lost, stolen, or damaged luggage can be far more stressful. Apart from being troublesome, this situation can potentially cause significant losses, especially if important items are inside the lost luggage.
Here are the steps you can take to handle the situation quickly and properly.
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Understand the Airline’s Policy on Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Luggage
Each airline has different rules regarding lost, damaged, or stolen luggage. Make sure to read these provisions on the airline’s official website or brochures. Pay attention to the reporting time limits (e.g., 7 days), compensation values, and items that are not covered. -
File a Report with the Airline
As soon as you realize your suitcase is missing, damaged, or stolen, immediately report it to the airline’s baggage claim or Lost and Found section. Provide your boarding pass, baggage tag, suitcase description, and a chronology of events. Staff will issue a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which you must keep as proof of your claim. -
Know the Compensation You’re Entitled To
If your suitcase cannot be found, airlines generally offer compensation for the suitcase and its contents. However, valuable items like electronics, cash, and perishable goods are typically not covered. Therefore, it’s crucial to know the maximum compensation limits and how to file your claim to avoid losses. -
Report Damage Immediately if Your Suitcase is Damaged
If your suitcase arrives damaged, report it immediately before leaving the airport. Take photos of the damage and show them to airline staff. The airline may offer free repairs or a replacement, but your claim could be denied if you report it too late (after leaving the airport area).
How to Prevent Luggage from Being Lost or Damaged
Although it can’t always be avoided, the risk of losing or damaging luggage during travel can actually be minimized. With the following preventive measures, you can better protect your suitcase and its contents from damage or loss.
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Use Baggage Insurance
Baggage insurance is generally divided into two main categories: baggage delay and baggage loss (baggage and personal belongings).
Protection for baggage delay covers urgent expenses while waiting for your suitcase to arrive, such as clothes or daily necessities. Meanwhile, baggage loss insurance provides compensation if your suitcase is permanently lost or damaged.
For more comprehensive protection during your trip, you might consider Zurich Travel Insurance offered by Global Komunika, which covers baggage protection and various other risks.
With comprehensive coverage that includes emergency expenses, luggage damage, and other travel disruptions, you can travel with peace of mind without worrying about unexpected losses.
Interestingly, Zurich Travel Insurance also offers extensive and flexible coverage areas, which can be tailored to your travel plans. This coverage is divided into five main categories:
- ASEAN
- Domestic (Indonesia)
- International (Worldwide)
- Schengen
- Asia Pacific
So what are you waiting for? Protect your journey now with Zurich Travel Insurance, because peace of mind is an essential part of a pleasant holiday!
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Use a Tracking Device
Placing a tracker (such as an AirTag or GPS tracker) inside your suitcase can help you locate your luggage in real-time. This is especially useful if your suitcase is left behind at the airport or misplaced during transit. Simply connect the device to your phone, and you can easily monitor its movements.
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Attach a Name and Contact Tag to Your Suitcase
Attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to your suitcase. This makes it easier for staff to find and contact you if your suitcase is misrouted or swapped. Use a waterproof and durable tag so it doesn’t get damaged during your journey.
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Photograph Your Suitcase Before Check-In
Take photos of your suitcase from various angles before checking in, including the contents if possible. These photos are useful as evidence when reporting a loss or filing an insurance claim. Make sure details like color, brand, and unique features of your suitcase are clearly visible.
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Check In Early
Arriving early at the airport and checking in early allows ample time for your luggage to be properly processed and transferred, especially if you have connecting flights. Luggage checked in too close to boarding time is more prone to being left behind.
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Avoid Packing Valuables in Checked Luggage
Keep important items such as electronics, documents, jewelry, and cash in your carry-on bag. These items are vulnerable to loss or damage, and most airlines will not compensate for them if stored in checked baggage. Carrying valuable items in your cabin bag is the safest preventive measure.
The most important thing when dealing with delayed, lost, damaged, or stolen luggage is to stay calm and not panic. With a clear mind, you’ll be able to take the right steps, from reporting to the airline to making use of travel insurance.
