+1-888-415-1245 What happens if United loses my checked bag?

If United Airlines loses your checked bag, they are responsible for compensating you for the bag's contents, potentially up to a certain dollar amount, and must also refund any checked baggage fees. The airline will first try to locate your bag and may require you to file a missing baggage report and provide purchase invoices or other proof for items in the bag.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Report the Loss:

• Immediately after discovering your bag is missing, report it to a United representative at the airport.
• You'll need to file a missing baggage report, and they will provide you with a reference number for your claim.
• If you've already left the airport, you can file a report online through the United website.

2. Airline's Response:

• United will try to locate your bag using their tracking system and may ask for a detailed description of your luggage and its contents.
• If the bag is not found within a certain timeframe (typically 5-7 days for delayed baggage, but longer for lost bags), it may be declared lost.
• Once a bag is declared lost, the airline is responsible for compensating you for the lost items, subject to depreciation and maximum liability limits.

3. Compensation:

• For domestic flights:
  United may offer up to $3,800 USD (approx.) in compensation, according to one source. AirAdvisor another source mentions up to $4,700 USD.
• For international flights:
  They may offer up to $1,780 USD (approx.) in compensation. AirAdvisor another source mentions up to $2,080 USD.
• Required documentation:
  Airlines typically require receipts or other proof of purchase for items in the lost bag, especially for valuable items.
• Refund of baggage fees:
  You will also be reimbursed for any baggage fees you paid to transport the lost bag.

4. If Your Bag is Eventually Found:

• Airlines may contact you if your bag is found, and may offer to return it to you.
• In some cases, if the bag is found after compensation has been paid, the airline may negotiate with you regarding ownership of the found bag.
• Airlines may also handle the disposal of found bags through a 3rd party, especially if they cannot be returned to the owner.

5. Additional Tips:

• Keep all baggage tags and claim checks. Tripadvisor emphasizes the importance of this for filing a claim.
• Take photos of your luggage and its contents before your flight.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance: that covers lost or delayed baggage for more comprehensive protection.
• If you're not satisfied with the airline's response, you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation .