01
The return date starts an important deadline
Where the Montreal Convention applies, a written complaint about baggage delay must generally be made within 21 days from the date the baggage was placed at the passenger's disposal. The UK Civil Aviation Authority gives the same practical instruction: write to the airline within 21 days of receiving the delayed bag.
Do not wait until day 21. Use the airline's current reimbursement form as soon as the bag is returned and the expense list is complete.
02
Necessary purchases depend on the actual trip
A traveller away from home may reasonably need toiletries, underwear, simple clothing or laundry. The number and type of purchases should reflect the destination, weather, planned activities, access to belongings and length of the delay.
There is no universal daily payout under the Convention. Some airlines publish internal allowances, reimbursement percentages or exclusions, so check the policy that applied to your journey.
03
Turn receipts into an explanation, not a pile
- List date, shop, item, amount and currency for every purchase.
- Group essentials by day or purpose rather than uploading them randomly.
- Explain event-specific items, such as clothing needed for a wedding or work meeting.
- Show refunds or returns so the claim reflects the final cost.
- Keep card slips only as supporting evidence; itemised receipts are stronger.
04
Arriving home changes what may be reasonable
Airlines may question replacement purchases made after you return to a home where equivalent belongings are available. That does not erase earlier necessary costs incurred away from home. Separate the timeline clearly and explain any exceptional need after returning.
If the bag missed the entire trip but was waiting when you arrived home, preserve proof of when and where it became available. The claim should focus on the actual period you were without it and the reasonable loss caused.
05
Claim from the airline, insurance or both routes carefully
Compare the airline process with travel insurance. Insurance may cover different categories but can apply an excess or time limit. Tell each provider about money received elsewhere and never claim the same expense twice.
If the airline rejects a supported claim, use its complaint procedure and check whether an approved alternative dispute resolution service covers it. Preserve every response and submission confirmation.