What to do if your luggage is lost during a flight

Lost luggage is a big fear for travelers and there are steps you can take when this happens to you.

United Airlines Cancels Hundreds Of Flights Thursday As Chaotic Week Of Air Travel Continues
United Airlines Cancels Hundreds Of Flights Thursday As Chaotic Week Of Air Travel Continues | Mario Tama/GettyImages

Travelers have good reasons to hate checking their bags. Of course, there are the fees that come with putting your luggage in the hands of the airline, but there’s the other issue that is a huge fear – lost luggage. It’s amazing to think that airlines frequently lose passengers’ bags. We all have heard the horror stories of standing at the claim conveyor belt just to find out your bag is nowhere to be found. If that ever happens during your travel, here are some steps to take.

Immediately Consult With Airline Services

Airline carriers are responsible for tracking every passenger's luggage. Major carriers are now offering the ability to follow your bag’s progression via a company app. Be sure you have the latest version downloaded on your phone to keep an eye on where your bag is during your trip. If something seems off, you’ll have the information available in the app to help track things down.

Take Advantage Of AirTags

AirTags are a popular item for travelers who want to take an additional step to track their belongings. Dropping one inside your bag gives you another resource to stay on top of your luggage’s location, but through an external system that does not rely on the viability of the airline. This is additional information that can help the airline find your bag.

Review Airline’s Lost Luggage Policy

Before taking your trip, review the lost luggage policy within your airline. What the airline will cover and how they take responsibility varies between carriers, so making sure you’re aware of all the information is key. You can view said information on the website, give the airline a call, or ask representatives within the airport. Some offer cash reimbursements similar to insurance for lost items, or even the cost that you incur having to replace what went missing.

Traveling is already stressful enough for many. The idea of losing luggage can cause anxiety in ways never experienced. As a customer, there are steps you can take to protect your interests in the times when the airline makes a mistake. Knowing what you have access to goes a long way in those moments when you need to find lost luggage.