General preparation, not a statement of current airline policy or legal, medical or religious advice. Confirm exact requirements with your operating airline and the relevant official authority before travelling.
Report checked-bag problems before leaving
If your checked bag is missing or damaged, find the airline’s baggage service desk or handling agent in the arrivals area. Show the bag-tag receipt and boarding pass, describe the issue and ask for a written report reference and next steps.
Save useful evidence
Photograph visible damage and keep bag tags, booking details and any relevant receipts. For a missing bag, describe its colour, size and distinguishing marks; give a delivery address and a contact method that works at your destination.
Ask whether a separate claim is required
An airport report may not complete the airline’s claim process. Check how and when to submit the written claim and supporting documents, and ask about essential purchases before spending money expecting reimbursement.
Use the right lost-property channel
For an item left in the cabin, contact the airline or its nominated lost-property service. For something left in a terminal, contact the airport. Keep report numbers so you can follow up without repeatedly starting a new case.
Check with official sources
These are official starting points, not a promise that one airline’s policy applies to another. Check the current guidance for your own itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Is a baggage report the same as a compensation claim?
Not necessarily. Ask whether you also need to submit a written claim, where to send it and what deadline and documents apply to your journey.
Can I leave the airport before reporting damage?
Report visible damage promptly, ideally before leaving the baggage area. If you have already left, contact the airline immediately and follow its reporting process.
Will the airline pay for replacement clothes?
Do not assume payment. Ask the airline and any insurer about eligibility, approval and evidence before making purchases, and keep receipts.
Who handles a phone left on the aircraft?
Start with the airline’s official lost-property channel. A cabin item is not normally traced using the same bag-tag process as a checked suitcase.