# What should I do if my luggage is damaged?

> Report the damage at the airline's baggage desk before leaving the airport, take photos, get a report number and file a written claim within 7 days.

Report it before you leave the airport. Go to your airline's baggage service desk in the arrivals hall, show the damaged bag, and get a written damage report (often called a Property Irregularity Report) with a reference number. Then file a written claim with the airline quickly — on international flights the Montreal Convention sets a deadline of 7 days from receiving the bag.

## Step by step

1. **Inspect the bag at the carousel.** Check wheels, handles, zippers and the shell, and open it if you suspect contents are damaged.
2. **Take photos** of the damage, the bag tag and your boarding pass.
3. **File the report at the airline's desk** before exiting. If the desk is closed, report it online or by phone the same day.
4. **Keep everything:** bag tag, report number, receipts for the bag and any damaged items.
5. **Submit a written claim** to the airline with photos, the report number and repair estimates or receipts.
6. **Follow up** if you don't hear back within a few weeks, and escalate if needed.

## What compensation to expect

Airlines usually offer to repair the bag, replace it with a similar one, or pay its depreciated value. On international flights, liability is capped under the Montreal Convention at roughly 1,500 Special Drawing Rights per passenger, unless you declared a higher value at check-in. Domestic US flights have their own limit set by the Department of Transportation.

## What airlines usually won't cover

- Normal wear and tear: scuffs, small dents, scratches.
- Damage to fragile items, electronics and valuables packed in checked bags.
- Items attached to the outside of the bag, such as straps and wheels already loose.
- Bags already damaged when checked in, if the agent noted this on the tag.

## If the airline refuses

Ask for a written explanation and escalate to the airline's customer relations department. In the US you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation; in the EU, with the national enforcement body of the country where the incident happened. Travel insurance or a credit card's baggage protection may also cover the loss.

## FAQ

**Who is responsible for a broken suitcase — the airport or the airline?**
The airline is responsible, even if an airport contractor handled the bag. On a trip with several airlines, you normally report it to the airline that flew the last leg.

**How long do I have to claim?**
On international flights, 7 days after receiving the bag. Domestic and airline-specific deadlines can be shorter, so report it at the airport whenever possible.

**Can I get compensation for damaged contents?**
Yes, if you prove the damage and the item is not excluded by the airline's rules. Receipts make this much easier.

**Does travel insurance cover damaged luggage?**
Many policies do, often after the airline's compensation, and up to a per-item limit.

**What if I discover the damage after leaving the airport?**
Contact the airline right away and file in writing within the deadline. Claims made later are harder but not impossible.

**Can I fly with a broken suitcase?**
If it can be closed securely, usually yes, but the airline may ask you to sign a limited-release form saying it isn't responsible for the existing damage.

---
https://inyourtravel.com/what-should-i-do-if-my-luggage-is-damaged/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-10-30