Suitcase lost or delayed after your flight? Here's what you need to do!

We all probably remember well the chaos at Schiphol Airport last year. At its peak in the summer, there were some 8,000 to 10,000 suitcases without an owner at the airport then. Of course, such a situation does not occur every year, but luggage can always be lost or delayed. If your suitcase gets lost, it's hugely stressful. An annoying start or end to your vacation. But what exactly should you do when that happens? Where should you go and who should you contact? In this blog we tell you what to do if your luggage is delayed or lost.

Make an immediate missing person report at the airport

Report the loss of your luggage directly to the airline. Every airport has a desk where you can report missing luggage. Here you can fill out a PIR (Property Irregularity Report). Based on this, the airline can search for your missing baggage. Here you must also show your baggage sticker. You always get this one at check-in. Keep the original sticker and ask for a copy of the PIR form. You will need this to file a claim with the airline, travel agent or your travel insurance company.

Check your travel insurance coverage before departure

While taking out travel insurance, you choose the amount of baggage coverage you want. Therefore, before you leave, make sure you have travel insurance with sufficient luggage coverage. Also check directly if your home contents insurance offers outdoor coverage for valuables.

Inform your travel insurer as soon as possible

Did you purchase travel insurance before departure? Then you can often claim against your insurer as well. In this case, inform your travel insurer as soon as possible. They can help you with the necessary steps and coverage for purchases for delayed baggage. In many cases, you will be reimbursed for such things as replacement clothing and toiletries.

Keep receipts of any purchases well

Does your suitcase get lost on the way out? Then of course you will need a few things in the first few days, such as toiletries, clean underwear and a set of clean clothes. The insurance company will reimburse you for these purchases. Be sure to keep all receipts, as they may be needed to claim the reimbursement from your travel insurer. However, pay close attention to the maximum reimbursements per person and per policy. This may differ from one insurer to another and may affect the amount of reimbursement you can receive.

Carry important documents or medication in your carry-on luggage

This may be a bit mustard, but it is always a good idea to carry important documents and medications in your carry-on luggage instead of putting them in your suitcase. Your carry-on luggage is always with you, and this way you can be sure that your most important items will always come with you to your destination.

Lost luggage?

Then check the emergency numbers page for your insurer's number. Insurers' emergency centers are available 24/7 in case of an emergency. You will also find your insurer's emergency number on your policy.

Do you have questions about continuous travel insurance? Then be sure to contact us. Our advisors are ready to help you on your way.