Lost Bag in Europe? The 7–21 Day Claim Checklist

A missing suitcase can turn the first hours of a trip into a blur of queues, forms and contradictory advice. The useful response is much simpler: report the problem before leaving the airport, keep every document, and watch the written-claim deadline.

Start at the baggage desk

Go to the airline or handling agent’s baggage desk in the arrivals hall and ask for a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Check that your name, flight, bag description and delivery address are correct. Photograph the form and the baggage tag.

The PIR starts the tracing process, but it is not always the final compensation claim. Ask the airline where the separate written claim must be submitted and keep the reference number.

The two deadlines to remember

Damaged checked baggage: send the airline a written claim within seven days of receiving the bag.
Delayed checked baggage: send the written claim within 21 days of the date the bag was returned to you.

Do not wait for the tracing case to close before checking the airline’s claim process. A short factual message with the PIR number, flight details, baggage tag and receipts is more useful than a long narrative.

Buy only what is reasonable

If the bag is delayed away from home, essential replacement purchases may be recoverable. Keep itemised receipts and choose necessities that fit the length and purpose of the trip. Airlines assess claims individually, so restraint and documentation matter.

When the bag is treated as lost

If the airline confirms the bag is lost—or it has not arrived after the applicable tracing period—submit the requested inventory and proof of value. Describe items realistically and include receipts where available. Liability is limited under international rules, so valuable items deserve separate travel insurance or a higher-value declaration arranged before travel.

Your airport-ready evidence pack

boarding pass and booking confirmation;
baggage tag and PIR;
photos of damage, where relevant;
essential-purchase receipts;
copies of every message and claim submission;
a screenshot or PDF showing the submission date.

EU guidance says airlines are responsible for checked baggage that is lost, damaged or delayed, subject to the applicable limits and exceptions. The details can vary with the itinerary and carrier, so use the airline’s official process and the current passenger-rights guidance for your route.

Official guidance: EU air-passenger rights and the European Commission’s 2026 travel-rights update.