Protecting your personal belongings: what to do if your luggage is lost or delayed

Few things disrupt travel plans quite like arriving at your destination only to find that your luggage hasn't. Delayed or lost luggage can be stressful, especially if it contains essential items you need for your trip. Fortunately, with a few practical steps and the right travel insurance, you can handle this situation with minimal disruptions and get back to enjoying your trip. Here's a guide on what to do if your luggage is lost or delayed and how travel insurance can protect your finances when your belongings are lost.

Report the delay or loss immediately

The first step when your luggage is missing is to report it to the airline or transport provider immediately. Most airports have a dedicated baggage claim office where you can file a report. Provide as much detail as possible about your luggage, including colour, size, and any distinctive features, and make sure to get a copy of the report and a reference number.

How this helps

Filing a report promptly helps the airline locate your luggage faster and ensures that you have a record of the delay or loss, which you'll need for any insurance claims. Airlines often have tracking systems in place to help locate lost luggage within hours or days, so reporting it quickly increases the likelihood of getting it back sooner.

Stay updated and follow up with the airline

After reporting the delay or loss, keep in contact with the airline's baggage handling team to track any updates. Many airlines allow you to monitor the status of your luggage through their website or app. Regularly checking the status keeps you informed and can help you plan for the next steps if your luggage isn't located quickly.

Tips for staying updated

• Use the airline's app or website: Many airlines have online baggage tracking services.
• Save the airline's contact details: Having a direct number or email for the baggage office allows you to follow up easily.
• Ask about reimbursement options: Some airlines offer reimbursement for basic expenses, like clothing and toiletries, if your luggage is delayed.

How travel insurance helps

Travel insurance often covers additional expenses for essential items if your luggage is delayed beyond a specified period, typically 6 hours. Knowing you can replace essential items without worrying about costs can make the waiting period less stressful.

Purchase essentials if necessary

If your luggage is delayed for an extended period, you may need to buy essentials, such as toiletries, clothing or meals. Before making any purchases, check with your airline and travel insurance provider to confirm what items are eligible for reimbursement.

What to do

• Keep receipts: For insurance reimbursement, you'll need receipts for all purchases.
• Limit purchases to essentials: Travel insurance policies typically cover necessary items only, so try to stick to items you need immediately.
• Contact your insurer: Some insurers may have limits on eligible expenses, so it's wise to check these details.

How travel insurance helps

Many travel insurance policies offer cover for emergency purchases if your luggage is delayed during your trip beyond a specified time. This can include clothing, toiletries, and other essentials, allowing you to carry on with your trip comfortably while you wait for your luggage to arrive.

File a claim for lost luggage if necessary

If your luggage is deemed officially lost, most airlines will provide some compensation for the contents. However, this compensation may not fully cover the value of your belongings. If you need additional cover, contact your travel insurance provider to file a claim for lost luggage.

How to file a claim for lost luggage

1. Gather documentation: Include the baggage report from the airline, any receipts for replacement items, and a list of lost items with estimated values.
2. Contact your travel insurance provider: Reach out to your insurer's claims department to start the process.
3. Submit receipts and documentation: Your insurer will need these to assess the claim and determine reimbursement.

How travel insurance helps

Travel insurance can provide additional cover for lost luggage, ensuring you're reimbursed up to your policy's limit.

Use anti-theft bags and secure valuables

Lost luggage isn't the only risk when it comes to protecting your belongings; theft is also a concern. When travelling, it's best to keep valuables like passports, electronics, and wallets in a secure, anti-theft bag that stays with you. If you're in transit or need to check a bag containing valuable items, consider additional measures, such as padlocks or secure packing methods.

Tips for securing valuables

• Use anti-theft bags: These bags are designed with security features, such as lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials, and hidden pockets.
• Keep valuables in your carry-on: Whenever possible, keep important items like documents and electronics in your carry-on bag.
• Avoid overpacking checked luggage: Items like laptops, cameras, or jewellery should be kept with you rather than in checked bags.

How travel insurance helps

Travel insurance often includes cover for lost or stolen items, so if your valuables are taken, you can file a claim for reimbursement. Some policies cover specific high-value items, so check with your insurer if you're travelling with costly belongings.

How Santam Travel Insurance covers delayed or lost luggage

With Santam Travel Insurance, you're protected against the inconvenience of lost or delayed luggage. Here's how Santam Travel Insurance supports you:

• Delayed luggage cover: Santam Travel Insurance reimburses costs for essential items if your luggage is delayed beyond a specified period, allowing you to buy toiletries, clothing, and other essentials.
• Lost luggage protection: If your luggage is officially declared lost, Santam Travel Insurance covers eligible claims for lost items up to your policy's limit, helping you replace your belongings.
• Protection for personal belongings: Santam Travel Insurance provides cover for items that are lost or stolen while travelling, so if your valuable items are taken, you have additional financial protection.
• 24/7 assistance: The assistance team is available anytime to guide you on how to proceed with lost or delayed luggage and to provide advice on the claims process.

With Santam Travel Insurance, you can travel confidently, knowing your belongings are covered and that you have support if anything goes wrong with your luggage.