Protect Your Luggage: Lessons Learned from Recent Texas Airport Issues

Recently, a news story about a woman whose luggage was lost after her flight was canceled made the rounds in Texas. Things escalated before she was finally assured she would receive compensation. The entire story brings to light the issue of what you should do if your bags are lost, and what you can do to minimize your losses.

What Should You Do If Your Luggage Is Lost On A Flight?

So you decided to take a flight, and everything was going well until you went to get your luggage. You get to the carousel and wait while the bags disappear one by one. Soon you're left standing by yourself staring at an empty oval of disappointment. Your luggage isn't there. What do you do?

The first thing you should do is stay calm. Sometimes your luggage could be delayed. It could also wind up on the wrong carousel. Calmly look around to see if you can find your bag anywhere else. If your bag isn't anywhere to be found, now it's time to talk to someone.

Go to the baggage counter and calmly let them know what's happening. They'll be able to help you out, and will probably be really nice about it if you can keep your cool. You'll need to fill out some information and be sure to let them know where to deliver your luggage to once it has arrived.

Do You Get Compensated For Missing Luggage?

All of the major airlines have specific ways they compensate travelers for their lost luggage. Usually, it involves some kind of reimbursement for essentials, so you'll want to keep your receipts after you go scramble for a change of underwear...and other essentials that you buy.

Something to keep in mind is that while it doesn't happen often, luggage does get lost. Don't load your bag down with incredibly expensive stuff. Keep your most important items with you in a carry-on. I never check luggage for this very reason. If it doesn't fit into my carry-on, I don't need to take it with me.

Interestingly enough, some changes are coming regarding how airlines are supposed to handle flight changes and "mishandled" luggage. These changes address compensation to travelers whose trip doesn't go according to plan. These changes are intended to add further consumer protections to traveling.