How to Recover Lost Luggage

Step 1: Check the other carousels Check the baggage carousels from other arriving flights. Luggage is sometimes misdirected as it is unloaded and transported.
TIP: Use a brightly colored bag, tag, or strap so you can spot your suitcase easier and to aid in locating your lost luggage.
Step 2: Report lost luggage Report your lost luggage to your carrier’s baggage service office inside the airport as soon as possible. Don’t leave without filing a claim.
Step 3: Keep the checked baggage claim ticket Keep your checked baggage claim ticket as well as your boarding pass to help supply the airline with tracking information.
Step 4: List contents Make a detailed list of your luggage’s contents and give it to the airline in case your bag was torn open, stolen, or destroyed.
TIP: Do not lie about the contents of your luggage. Federal law will compensate you with a maximum of $2,500 for the lost luggage.
Step 5: Hire an aviation attorney Hire an aviation attorney as a last resort to collect restitution in excess of $2,500 or if problems arise in finding your luggage.
FACT: In 2006, 68 pieces of stolen luggage were found in a trash container outside a pet store near George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.

Lessons in this Guide