Suitcase arriving late? The airline pays for replacement purchases
Arrived at your holiday destination, but not your suitcase? With delayed baggage you do not have to bear everything yourself: the airline must reimburse necessary replacement purchases for the time without your baggage.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Demand reimbursement →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Report at the airport
Have the late arrival documented immediately (damage report/PIR).
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2. Shop reasonably
Buy only what is necessary for the time without your baggage and keep the receipts.
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3. Meet the deadline: 21 days
Submit the written reimbursement claim with receipts within 21 days.
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4. If permanently lost
If the suitcase does not arrive at all, claim compensation for baggage loss (up to the maximum limit).
Frequently asked questions
Do I get money for replacement purchases if my suitcase is delayed?
Yes. For delayed checked baggage the airline is liable under the Montreal Convention for necessary replacement purchases, such as clothing and hygiene items for the time without your suitcase, up to a maximum amount. What matters is reporting it immediately at the airport (PIR), keeping all receipts and filing the complaint within 21 days.
What if my baggage never turns up?
If the baggage stays lost for good, which as a rule is after 21 days, you are entitled to compensation for baggage loss, again up to the maximum limit of the Montreal Convention. Submit a list of the suitcase contents with values and any receipts you have in order to quantify your loss.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.