What to do in case of lost luggage: summer 2025 traveler’s guide
Few setbacks ruin a trip as much as waiting in vain in front of the baggage carousel. Every summer, thousands of passengers experience delays, mishandling, or even the definitive loss of their checked luggage. With the increase in flights expected for summer 2025, it is essential to know how to act if your suitcase does not arrive at its destination. In this guide, we explain step by step what to do, what your rights are, and who to turn to for assistance or compensation.
The first thing to do: immediate report
If your luggage does not appear on the carousel, act immediately before leaving the arrivals area. Go to the airport’s Lost & Found office and fill in the PIR (Property Irregularity Report): this is the document that officially certifies the loss. Without this form, it will be very difficult to start a refund or complaint procedure.
Keep a copy of the PIR and the baggage tag you received at check-in: both will be essential if you need to start a formal claim with the airline.
Delayed luggage or permanently lost?
Not all luggage is truly lost: in most cases it is simply delayed, which may last from a few hours to several days. Airlines have 21 days to return your suitcase. If this does not happen, under the Montreal Convention, the baggage is officially considered lost.
In the meantime, you are entitled to reimbursement for essential expenses: toiletries, basic clothing, and indispensable items. It is important to keep all receipts in order to claim reimbursement from the airline.
If your baggage is returned damaged or tampered with, you are entitled to compensation for the value of the damaged or missing items.
Refund and compensation: what the law says
International regulations protect passengers in cases of lost or delayed baggage. The Montreal Convention sets a maximum compensation limit of around €1,300 per passenger. The exact amount depends on the contents of the luggage, the receipts provided, and the documentation submitted.
The airline may require a written declaration or a list of the items inside the suitcase. If you are transporting high-value items, it is advisable to declare them in advance or take out additional insurance.
How to get assistance with DelayFlight24
If the airline does not cooperate, rejects your claim, or offers compensation that is too low, you can turn to DelayFlight24, a company specialized in handling air travel claims.
DelayFlight24 provides specialized legal assistance and free verification of your case.
By submitting just a few details, you can start your claim and receive support to obtain what you are entitled to under the law.
Conclusion: being informed means being prepared
Losing your luggage is a stressful inconvenience, but with the right information you can handle it without panic and obtain the refund you deserve. The key is to act immediately, keep all documentation, and, if necessary, rely on professionals.
In the chaos of summer airports, a small mishap can turn into a serious problem. But if you know what to do – and who to contact – you can handle it effectively and protect your trip.
