LOT delayed baggage compensation.
How much can you claim? What are the rules?
Experiencing the loss of your baggage while traveling can be an incredibly exasperating ordeal. You may find out that your suitcase has not arrived at your destination while you wait patiently by the baggage carousel in the airport. There could be several reasons for baggage delay, such as mishandling, delayed or canceled flights, or even the negligence of airport staff. If you are faced with the unfortunate circumstance of a lost luggage, what steps should you take?
What to Do If Your Luggage Is Lost?
To begin with, it is crucial to remain in the baggage claim area.
Next, locate the Baggage Service Office (or Lost and Found office) which can usually be found near the baggage carousels in the same area. Here, you can report the loss of your baggage.
To file the report, you will need to present your passport, boarding pass, and baggage tag (usually a small sticker attached to your boarding pass during check-in). In case you have any relevant details or a photo of your bag, it could aid in expediting the process of locating your bag. However, even if you only have your passport and boarding pass, do not fret; go ahead and file the report.
Once you have submitted the report, you will receive further instructions along with a written confirmation (known as a Property Irregularity Report or PIR) that will include a personal reference number. Keep this document safely, as it may be required later. Typically, LOT or airport staff should contact you within 12-24 hours to arrange for your bag’s delivery.
Tracking Your Lost Baggage
When it comes to tracking your lost bag, it is crucial to hold onto the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) that you receive from the airport staff, as it will be required for online tracking.
To check your lost bag’s status, make use of an online baggage tracing system (i.e., the World Tracer Tool). You will need to provide your PIR number along with other essential details such as your name and travel date.
LOT Delayed Baggage Compensation
What are your rights if your baggage is delayed?
Could you be entitled to delayed baggage compensation from LOT?
Baggage Delayed for More Than 5 Days
If your bag is not found within 5 days of filing the report, please contact LOT Airlines.
Use the Baggage Inventory Form to provide a detailed list of the contents of the baggage. Print and fill out the form, then send it to LOT’s Central Baggage Tracing Office. In the event that your baggage is found, LOT will deliver it to the address provided in the PIR at the airline’s expense.
For more information about lost baggage click here.
Reimbursement of Expenses
LOT will reimburse the expenses incurred for necessary items such as toiletries, underwear, and clothing while awaiting delivery. The reimbursement amount is limited to USD 100. However, costs for non-essential items like cosmetics and perfumes will not be refunded by the airline.
The claim for expenses must be filed within 21 days from the date when the lost baggage is received.
This reimbursement from LOT is often called “LOT delayed baggage compensation”.
Lost Baggage (You Can Get Compensation)
If LOT fails to locate and return your baggage within 21 days, it is officially considered lost. You can file a compensation claim with the airline, which may entitle you to receive up to €1300.
However, it’s important to note that carrying valuables in your checked baggage is not recommended as airlines are only liable to compensate for the value specified by the Montreal Convention and the airline’s Conditions of Carriage.
To file a claim, you’ll need to present your boarding pass, baggage tags, and Property Irregularity Report (PIR) that includes your reference number. If you incurred additional expenses while waiting for your baggage, you can also submit a claim by providing receipts for your purchases.
Is Travel Insurance Necessary?
Although it’s not obligatory to have proof of insurance when making a claim, buying coverage before traveling can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected issues.
Most travel insurance providers can assist you in managing various situations, making your trip more enjoyable. Moreover, some policies are reasonably priced, so it’s worth considering purchasing insurance or using a travel debit/credit card that includes coverage.
If your baggage is lost or delayed due to no fault of yours, your insurance policy may entitle you to a refund for vital purchases, which may be more straightforward than dealing with the airline directly. It’s essential to keep all receipts and contact your insurer before making any purchases. Failure to do so may result in a denial of a refund.
Be sure to inquire about the specifics of your policy, including baggage delay coverage.
Travel Prepared
When traveling, it’s important to be prepared.
To avoid the inconvenience of lost or delayed baggage, make sure to pack an extra set of clothes and undergarments in your hand baggage. This is especially crucial when visiting tropical destinations where specific clothing and swimwear may be required.
To be safe, keep your medications and valuables in your hand baggage as well. This way, you’ll have access to them even if your checked-in baggage is lost or delayed.
Please note that the rules for compensation for delayed or lost baggage with LOT are the same as those for other airlines. This is due to the Montreal Convention, which applies to the carriage of baggage on most international flights operated by LOT and other airlines globally.
Featured photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels