Claiming for Lost or Delayed Baggage

Discovering that your checked-in baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged at the end of a long flight is deeply frustrating. Travel insurance typically covers all three scenarios, but the claim must be handled at the airport before you leave — delays in the initial steps can jeopardise your entire claim. Here is exactly what to do.

At the Airport: The Most Critical Step

Before leaving the baggage claim area, approach the airline''s baggage helpdesk and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This is the foundational document for any baggage claim — without it, the insurer will not process your claim. Obtain the PIR reference number and keep the physical copy.

Delayed Baggage Claim

Most policies pay a fixed daily allowance (typically ₹2,000–₹5,000 per day, subject to a cap) for bags delayed beyond 12 hours. To claim:

• Submit the PIR copy confirming the delay
• Original receipts for essential items purchased (clothing, toiletries) during the delay
• Airline''s written confirmation of the delay and eventual delivery date
• Boarding pass and ticket copies

Note that most insurers only reimburse actual emergency purchases, not a flat daily rate — save every receipt.

Lost Baggage Claim

If the airline declares the baggage permanently lost (usually after 21 days), the claim transitions from delayed to lost. Documents required:

• PIR
• Airline''s written confirmation of permanent loss
• Completed baggage claim form from your insurer
• List of contents with approximate values
• Original purchase receipts for high-value items (electronics, jewellery) if available
• Ticket and boarding pass copies

Damaged Baggage Claim

Report damage at the airline counter before leaving the airport and get it documented. Photograph the damage immediately. The insurer will settle based on the depreciated value of the bag and its contents. Items like cash, passports, and electronics may have separate sub-limits.

Common Exclusions

• Hand luggage and cabin baggage (most policies only cover checked baggage)
• Valuables left unattended
• Loss due to confiscation by customs or other authorities
• Wear and tear, scratches, or minor cosmetic damage

Filing the Claim

Submit all documents to your insurer within 30 days of the incident (check your policy for the exact window). Online claim portals speed up the process. Keep digital scans of all documents as backup.

Conclusion

Speed at the airport is the decisive factor in a baggage claim — the PIR is your entire case. When you are choosing a travel policy for your next trip, compare baggage limits and sub-limits carefully; TruePolicy can help you find a plan that adequately protects the value of what you carry.