Delayed or lost bag: file this, then claim that
Most bags arrive within a day. When yours does not, the order of operations matters.
Bag fee refundIf your checked bag is not delivered within 12 hours of a domestic arrival, the bag fee is refundable. International: 15 hours for flights of 12 hours or less, 30 hours for longer flights.
14 CFR Part 260 and Part 254
14 CFR Part 260 and Part 254
Step by step
- File a mishandled baggage report at the airport, before you leave. Get the file reference number.
- Keep your boarding pass and baggage tag.
- Track the bag with the airline's own tracker.
- Buy essentials if you must, and keep receipts. Ask the airline in writing to reimburse reasonable costs.
- Once the deadline passes, request the bag fee refund in writing.
If the bag is lost for good
Domestic liability is capped by DOT rules that are adjusted periodically, and many cards and travel insurance policies add cover. Check yours. File a written claim with an itemized list of contents and values within the airline's deadline.
Tips
- Photograph the bag's contents before you travel when it matters.
- Put a tracker in checked bags.
- Keep valuables, medicine and documents in your carry-on.
Sources: 14 CFR Part 260, 250.5, 259.4, DOT Aviation Consumer Protection. Rules can change; confirm for high-stakes claims.