Lost Luggage.. Don't Panic.

Delays
If your bags are delayed, try not to panic. The airline typically has a way to track them, and about 98 percent of all misplaced luggage is returned eventually. If your bags are on the next flight, you could have them within a few hours. If they've been sent to the wrong airport, it could take a couple of days.

Make sure you give the attendant a hotel or home phone number and address.The airlines will typically bring you your luggage when it is found; you will rarely need to return to the airport to pick it up.

Additionally, many airlines will reimburse any unexpected expenses caused by the loss or delay. Be careful here -- the airline sometimes has the option to deduct any reimbursement or stipend from any subsequent awards.

Lost Baggage
If the airline loses your bags, make sure you get a written claim for damages. This may require a different form than the original "missing luggage" form. This can be done at the airport or by mail.

On domestic flights, the airline baggage liability is capped at $3,000 per person. On international trips, the liability limit may vary, as it is governed by various international treaties, including the Montreal and Warsaw Conventions.

Check your carrier's Web site for specifics. You may need to produce receipts. If you have them, include copies in any documentation you send to the airline. You can purchase "excess valuation" protection if your checked baggage is worth more than these limits.

Stolen Baggage
Head directly to the baggage carousel when you get off your flight. Many airlines scan bags when they're loaded into the baggage claim area and keep records, especially at larger airports. Once you've left the baggage claim area, your claim is no longer with the airline, but with the police.

Damaged Baggage
Once you've gotten your bags off the carousel, immediately check them for damage or for other signs of tampering or mishandling. In the case of damaged baggage, airline customer service will often want to inspect the bag.

You will most likely need to produce a receipt for any repairs, or be required to use airline-sanctioned luggage repair vendors. Ask the baggage claim attendant for specific information. You don't want to find out that you have paid for a repair that it isn't covered.Time Restrictions and DeadlinesWhen you file a report, most airlines will give you a claim number and ask that you call or write the airline within 21 to 45 days.

An Ounce of Prevention
Put your name on the outside and inside of your bags. Even better, put a copy of your itinerary in each checked bag so the airline can locate you.
The most common causes of lost and delayed bags are late check-ins and tight connections. Avoid both when you can.

Pack valuables in your carry-on bags. Cameras, computers, medication, wallets, heirlooms, jewelry, passports, as well as confirmation numbers, itineraries, contact information, and other documents necessary to your travel should not be in your checked baggage.

Itemize. It sounds tedious, but when an airline asks what was in your bag, you don't want to forget anything of value.

Make sure the person who checks your baggage attaches the correct destination ticket to every bag, and get a claim ticket for each.
If you're traveling to a different climate, put appropriate clothes in your carry-on.

Travel insurance is the best guarantee that you'll recoup any losses. See our guide to travel insurance for more information.

If All Else FailsBe sure to file a complaint immediately.

If you still can't get satisfaction, or feel the need to report the airline, write or call: DOT Aviation Consumer Protection 400 Seventh Street, S.W. #4107Washington D.C., 20590(202) 366-4000.

Finally, if you're wondering where lost bags go after they die, here's your answer: UnclaimedBaggage.com!