How to claim for lost, delayed or damaged luggage
Report missing or damaged bags at the airport, claim essentials while you wait, and meet the strict 7- and 21-day deadlines for claiming from the airline.
- Time
- 30 minutes at the airport, then a written claim
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- Boarding pass and baggage tag sticker
- Property Irregularity Report (PIR) reference
- Receipts for essentials you buy
- Proof of value for lost items (receipts, bank statements, photos)
- Luggage tracker (optional, for future trips) Search Amazon for luggage tracker tag
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. The Amazon links go to search results, so you can compare what’s available.
Safety first
- A PIR doesn't guarantee your claim, but it's strong evidence – don't leave the airport without one if you can avoid it.
Step by step
-
Step 1: Report it before you leave the airport
Go to the airline's or handling agent's baggage desk in the arrivals hall before going through customs if you can. Ask them to complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and keep a copy and the reference number.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Keep a note of what's in the bag
List the contents and roughly what they're worth. Keep your baggage tag stub.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Buy only essentials if delayed
If your bag is delayed, you can usually claim for reasonable essentials like toiletries and a change of clothes. Keep all receipts and don't overspend.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Claim in writing – on time
Write to the airline (most have an online form):
- Damaged bag or items missing from it: within 7 days of getting it back
- Delayed bag: within 21 days of getting it back
- Lost bag: a bag is usually treated as lost after 21 days; claim as soon as possible
Missing these deadlines can mean you lose your right to claim.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Provide proof of value
Airlines pay the value of items allowing for their age, not 'new for old'. Send receipts, card statements or photos. There's a legal cap on how much airlines have to pay.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: Escalate if needed
If the airline refuses, go to its ADR scheme or the CAA. Your travel insurance may also cover baggage – check your policy, and claim the rest from them.
Tips
- Put a change of clothes and essential medicines in your hand luggage.
- Take a photo of your packed bag and its contents before you travel.
- Valuables (jewellery, cash, electronics) are often excluded – keep them in your hand luggage.
Questions people ask
What if my bag was on a connecting flight with a different airline?
Usually claim from the airline that operated the final flight, or the one you booked with – they'll tell you.
Can I claim on travel insurance and from the airline?
You can't be paid twice for the same loss, but insurance may cover what the airline won't.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
- UK Civil Aviation Authority: Lost, delayed or damaged baggage (caa.co.uk)
- AviationADR: Quick guide about luggage (aviationadr.org.uk)
- Which?: What to do if your luggage is lost or delayed (which.co.uk)
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Printed from howtoguides.uk/guides/how-to-claim-for-lost-or-delayed-luggage/ · Checked 9 October 2026 · General information only. For gas, electrics, structural work, medical, legal or money decisions, use a qualified professional.