Lost Your Luggage At The Airport? This Is Exactly What You Need To Do Next

You have landed, breezed through immigration, and rolled up to the baggage belt in full vacation mode. But as the crowd thins and the carousel slows to a halt, there is no sign of your suitcase. That familiar wave of panic sets in. Missing luggage is every traveller's worst-case scenario, and sadly, it is not as uncommon as one would hope. According to the Société Internationale de Telecommunications Aeronautiques (SITA) Baggage IT Insights Report 2025, the global airline industry mishandled 33.4 million bags in 2024. That is about 6.3 bags per 1,000 passengers. Slightly better than 2023, which clocked in at 33.8 million, but hardly reassuring when it is your bag that has vanished.

Still, there is some comfort in the data: the vast majority of these lost bags are not really lost - they are just late. The report states that over 66 per cent of mishandled baggage is returned within 48 hours, which means your suitcase is probably on its own little detour and will catch up with you soon. Whether you are flying for business, leisure, or simply trying to get home, lost luggage statistics like these are a good reminder to pack smart, tag well, and maybe keep that one outfit in your carry-on - just in case your suitcase takes a solo trip of its own.

Also Read: 11 Genius Airport Hacks That'll Save You Hours Of Stress

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Here Is Exactly What You Should Do - Step By Step - To Get Your Bag Back Faster:

Step 1: Do Not Exit The Baggage Area Immediately

If your suitcase does not appear, resist the urge to leave the baggage claim area. Look around thoroughly; sometimes, bags are moved to a nearby carousel or a separate counter for oversized or delayed baggage. Once you are certain your luggage is missing, head straight to your airline's baggage service desk, usually located near the carousels. This is where the official tracking process begins.

Step 2: File A PIR (Property Irregularity Report)

You will need to file a PIR-that is, a Property Irregularity Report-with the airline. This form logs your missing bag into the system. Keep your boarding pass and baggage tag ready; you will need both. That little sticker attached to your ticket during check-in? Never toss it.

Step 3: Collect And Save The PIR Number

Once you have described your bag and submitted the report, you will be issued a PIR number or file locator. Write it down or take a photograph of it. You will need this number to track your baggage status later. Some airlines and Indian airports allow you to file this online, but doing it in person is always faster and more reliable.

Step 4: Use Online Tools To Track Your Bag

Most major airlines have dedicated tools for online baggage tracking. Enter your PIR number and surname to check real-time updates. If you booked through an aggregator or travel agent, do not depend entirely on them. Always follow up directly with the airline for faster responses.

Step 5: Stay Reachable And Follow Up

After filing the report, make sure the airline can reach you. They will usually call, message, or email once your bag has been located. Double-check your contact number and delivery address, especially if you are in a hotel or have moved cities. Some airlines deliver delayed baggage to your doorstep, so keep your phone handy.

Also Read: Have You Tried These 8 Expert Tips To Navigate Foreign Airports Like A Pro?

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Bonus Tips to Help Prevent Luggage Issues:

1. Label And Photograph Your Luggage

Always tag your luggage with your full name and contact number. Take a quick photo before check-in. This helps airline staff identify it faster if it goes missing.

2. Use A Bluetooth Tracker

Frequent flyer? Consider investing in a Bluetooth tracker like Apple AirTag or Tile. These devices go inside your suitcase and help you locate it if it is within Bluetooth range. While not 100 per cent reliable, many travellers have found their bags faster than the airline using these.

What If Your Bag Is Lost? Know Your Baggage Rights In India

As per the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines in India, if your luggage is not found after 21 days, it is officially declared lost. You are entitled to compensation based on either the bag's weight or its declared value, depending on your airline's policy. There is also provision for compensation in case of delayed baggage, usually covering basic purchases like clothes and toiletries, within a defined limit.

If you are flying internationally, rules may vary depending on the airline and the destination country. Always retain bills and receipts if you plan to file for reimbursement.

Also Read: A Look At 10 Busiest Airports Of 2025 Across The World

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If you ever find yourself staring at an empty carousel, do not panic. Report the issue immediately, track your bag using the PIR number, and follow up actively. Most bags come back in a day or two. Until then, it helps to always carry your essential documents, valuables, and a spare outfit in your cabin bag - just in case.