There are few things that are more horrifying and unsettling than having your luggage go missing when you’re traveling. And, it’s even worse when you discover that the luggage hasn’t been misplaced, but that it’s actually been stolen. Where do you even start, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar place. You can always buy new suitcases, of course, but what if you’d absent-mindedly put your medications or valuables when you packed? What a way to ruin a holiday.
Our affiliate friends, World Nomads have had to deal with this over and over again. Here are their top tips on how to get your trip back on track, or at least headed in the right direction.
1. Report it
No matter where your luggage was lost or stolen, you’ll need to report it.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on public transport ( eg plane, cruise, bus or train)
- Report the incident to them and ask for written evidence such as a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
Keep any relevant ticket, luggage check and other documentation to give to us.
Find out how they will compensate you and get this in writing.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen from your accommodation
Report it to them and ask them to provide written confirmation of the loss or theft and any compensation they’ll offer.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on a tour or at a public venue ( eg airport, museum, sports stadium)
Report it to tour operator, venue management or security and ask them to provide written confirmation of the loss or theft and any compensation they’ll offer.
Gather receipts for the items you’re taking with you.
Scan any receipts and keep a copy in your inbox, just in case your baggage and personal items get stolen or delayed and you need to make a claim. Your expenses must be supported by receipts dated prior to the delivery of your delayed baggage and after 24 hours from your arrival.
2. Report it to the police
For stolen items, you’ll need to report the theft to the police as soon as reasonably possible after it occurs, and get written evidence that you’ve reported it to the police such as a written police report.
You’ll also need a police report for lost items, unless the loss was by a third party (such as an airline).
3. Track and block your phone or tablet
If your mobile phone or tablet is lost or stolen:
Try calling your phone to see what happens – you never know, someone might answer!
Apple users – try using the Find My iPhone feature
Call your mobile phone provider as soon as possible and ask them to block your service, and ask for written confirmation that they’ve done this.
4. Keep your receipts
You’ll need to keep all your receipts, along with your itineraries and booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected travel arrangements for when you claim. If you don’t do this, we may reduce or reject your claim.
5.Need to know more?
Our suggestions should help you when things go wrong and you want to make a claim. All travel insurance plans are different and cover will vary, depending what’s happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy wording will always have the full terms, conditions and exclusions that apply
If you have questions about what’s covered and not covered, just ask World Nomads. See below.