SAFETY FIRST’S ADVICE FOR LOST OR DAMAGED LUGGAGE

The lowest level of inconvenience is delay. Airlines have tracking systems, and 98 percent of all misplaced luggage is ultimately located, typically on the next flight. If you can’t wait the few hours, give the baggage attendant a phone number of your hotel or home address. Many airlines deliver your luggage when it is found. Some even reimburse costs of items purchased because of the delay when adequate receipts are presented. Make sure to obtain the proper phone number to obtain status updates on locating your missing luggage.

It's hard for inconvenience to not escalate into aggravation in the rare cases when your luggage is actually lost. Airlines often use different forms for “lost luggage” than for “missing luggage.” Make sure you get a receipt documenting the loss. Domestic flights cap loss at $3,300 while international flights vary depending on international treaties. You can check your carrier’s website in advance, but why aggravate yourself in advance.

Travel insurance provides additional indemnification for missing and lost luggage.