What to Do If Your Luggage Arrives Damaged (A Step-by-Step Travel Guide)

Seeing your suitcase come out cracked, broken, or torn after a flight can be frustrating, especially after a long journey.

The good news is, you usually have rights, and airlines deal with damaged luggage cases every day.

What matters most is what you do immediately after noticing the damage.

Here’s exactly how to handle damaged luggage without panic.

1. Inspect Your Luggage Before Leaving the Airport

This step is critical.

As soon as you collect your bag:

• Check wheels, handles, and zippers

• Look for cracks, dents, or tears

• Open it briefly to check the contents

Do not leave the airport before reporting damage, if possible.

2. Report the Damage at the Airline Baggage Desk

Go straight to the airline’s baggage service counter.

At the desk:

• Show your boarding pass and baggage tag

• explain the damage clearly

• ask to file a damage report

They will usually create a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which is very important.

3. Take Clear Photos and Videos

Before anything is repaired or altered:

• Take photos of the damage

• include close-ups and wide shots

• record a short video if needed

This evidence helps with claims and follow-ups.

4. Ask What the Airline Offers (Repair, Replacement, or Compensation)

Airlines usually offer one of the following:

• free repair

• replacement luggage

• compensation or travel voucher

Policies vary by airline, so ask clearly:

• What options are available

• Timelines for repair or replacement

• Get everything in writing if possible.

5. Keep All Documents and Receipts

Save:

• baggage claim tag

• boarding pass

• PIR reference number

• Any emails from the airline

If you pay for emergency repairs, keep the receipt.

6. File a Claim Online If Required

Some airlines require you to:

• Submit claims online

• upload photos

• Provide flight details

Do this within the airline’s deadline, often within 7 days. Missing deadlines can invalidate claims.

7. Check If Travel Insurance Covers 

If airline compensation is limited:

• Check your travel insurance

• See if baggage damage is covered

• Submit documents and photos

Insurance often covers what airlines don’t.

8. Know What Usually Isn’t Covered

Airlines often don’t cover:

• normal wear and tear

• minor scratches

• Overpacked luggage damage

Damage must be significant to qualify.

9. Don’t Repair the Bag Before Approval

Avoid:

• fixing the bag immediately

• throwing it away

• altering the damage

Wait for airline or insurance instructions.

10. Prevent Future Luggage Damage

To reduce risk next time:

• Use durable luggage

• avoid overpacking

• remove fragile items

• consider luggage covers

Some damage is unavoidable, but preparation helps.

Final Thought

Damaged luggage is annoying, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip.

When you act quickly, document everything, and follow the right steps, most cases are resolved smoothly.

The key is timing and calm action.