2-week backpacking trip
Documents, money, packing and the first night for a two-week trip with one backpack.
16 itemsStart
Lost luggage at the airport
Report before you leave the airport, keep the right papers and claim on time.
Before you leave the airport (7)
- Go to the airline's baggage deskIf the desk is closed, use the airline's app or website, and do it today.
- File a report and get a written copyIt is usually called a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Keep the reference number.
- Keep your boarding pass and bag tag, with the barcode
- Describe your bag: colour, brand, size and a distinctive mark
- Give an address and phone number for delivery
- Note the name of the agent and the time
- Ask what the airline will pay for while you wait, and get it in writing
While you wait (4)
- Track it online with your reference number
- Buy only essentials you need: toiletries, underwearKeep every receipt.
- Call or message each day, and note each contact
- Check your travel insurance and the card you paid withEither may also cover delays.
Claim on time (3)
- Delayed bag? Claim within 21 daysAirlines may set their own deadlines, so check theirs.
- Bag damaged or items missing? Claim within 7 days of getting it backTake photos and get a repair estimate.
- Not back after 21 days? It counts as lostMake your claim for lost luggage as soon as possible.
What to claim with (7)
- Boarding pass, bag tag and PIR
- Receipts for what you bought
- Proof of purchase for lost items: receipts or card statements
- A list of what was in the bag, with its age and value
- If there's no form, write saying you are claiming under the Montreal Convention
- Expect used value, not new for old, up to a capFor most international flights, about 1,519 SDR, roughly $2,175, according to the US DOT. Often much less gets paid.
- Keep copies of the claim and all your documents
Next time (3)
- Keep medicines, documents and valuables in your hand baggage
- Photograph your bag and its contents before you check it in
- Put your name and phone number inside the bag as well as outside
Written from www.citizensadvice.org.uk
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