Items stolen from my checked baggage – compensation from the airline?

8 replies

Tjames70

Member since 29 Jul 2014

Total posts 2

Any advice on the best approach to get compensation from an airline if items have been stolen from my checked in baggage? (Stupidly I didn't purchase travel insurance for this trip.)

moa999

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 02 Jul 2011

Total posts 835

Which airline?

Did you immediately report it to airline/ police at time of arrival?

I suspect most airlines will also have exclusion (similar to what Qantas has in section 7.4 of its Conditions of Carriage) which basically means that any items of substantial value (inc most electronic items) shouldn't be in checked baggae

AusFlyer

Member since 10 Mar 2011

Total posts 137

In addition to moa's comments... It's also going to be rather difficult to prove that the (a) the item was in fact in your luggage to start with and (b) that the airline was responsible for it going missing. There are all sorts of disclaimers about checking items in and the main one is as moa stated, valuable items should always be kept in hand carry bags. 

Dale

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 28 Dec 2011

Total posts 30

Sister in Law had 200 pounds sterling worth of clothes stolen from her New York to Heathrow suitcase. She put in a claim with BA (Who she flew with), and got the money straight away. It isby all accounts an increasing problem, when flying in and out of the USA. I believe it may be that suitcase can not be locked/sealed and must be available be inspection at anytime during transit.

 

johnaboxall

Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards

Member since 24 Aug 2011

Total posts 384

Get a "TSA lock". 

Dale

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 28 Dec 2011

Total posts 30

I believe that you are not allowed to lock or seal or suitcase, on flight in the USA. 

Chris C.

Member since 24 Apr 2012

Total posts 1,116

You are, but you need to use a TSA-compliant lock that allows you to lock the bag, yet it also allows TSA representatives to open the bag if required.

If you use another lock, it may be removed if the bag needs to be opened.

Dale

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 28 Dec 2011

Total posts 30

OHH well you learn something everyday.

Thank You good too know as we are thinking of going via the USA to UK and Europe next year.

pezzer

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 27 Aug 2013

Total posts 1

You may have travel insurance through your credit card. I am not sure if you have to notify them before you travel to be valid though. 

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