Airlinge baggage: Applicable rules and rights

What can I bring in my airline baggage? When flying, baggage allowances are often limited and vary between airlines. Be sure to check the airline's terms and conditions as well as the fare you have booked.

But what rights do I have if my baggage is lost or damaged during the journey? In most cases, you are entitled to compensation. We clarify everything you need to know.

In the event of delay, loss or damage to your airline baggage, the Montreal Convention (MC) usually regulates the passenger's claims against the airline.

From December 28, 2024, the Montreal Convention limits will be adjusted for the third time to 1,519 special drawing rights. This means that for transport from December 28th, 2024, compensation can be claimed for destruction, loss, damage or delay of luggage up to an amount of approximately 1,908.00 euros (as of December 28th, 2024). For transport before December 28, 2024, the limit of 1,288 SDR (approx. 1,500 euros) remains.

The following applies: Only what is damaged or lost or can be proven to have been purchased as a replacement will be refunded. However, in practice, the actual amount paid out is often less than the actual value. In addition, the passenger must provide proof of the damage, which is often not enough.

If you discover that your airline baggage is damaged or missing on arrival, you must go immediately to the airline's baggage counter at the airport and make a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This is important because it is the only way to prove that the airline is responsible for the baggage problem.

In addition to the PIR, you will need to contact the airline again in writing to claim compensation if you want to protect your rights.

Important information:

• Damaged checked airline baggage: You have up to 7 days to report the damage to the airline. The amount of your claim will be based on the value of your baggage at the time of damage.
   
• Delayed checked airline baggage: Once you have received your baggage back, you must contact the airline within 21 days and request payment for your replacement purchases or your claim will be forfeited.
   
• If you have not received your airline baggage after 21 days, it will be considered lost. You can then claim compensation for the contents of your baggage.There is no time limit. As with damaged baggage, the amount of your claim will be based on the value of your baggage at the time of loss.

You can find a list of European airline contact forms on our website.

If the airline does not pay compensation, a claim against the airline can only be made within 2 years. The period starts when the plane lands.

If you have a baggage insurance, contact your insurance company immediately.

If your baggage is delayed, you can buy replacement clothes and everyday items. Whether it's a toothbrush or pyjamas, keep the bills and receipts for these emergency purchases in a safe place so you can claim reimbursement from the airline. Replacement clothing is often only reimbursed at 50%, whereas underwear and toiletries are usually reimbursed at 100%.

Daily rates are also common with airlines: affected passengers will receive a certain amount per day, up to a maximum number of days.
Remember that new purchases should be limited to essentials. Do not buy expensive branded clothes or expensive perfume. If you do, the airline may refuse or reduce compensation. Some airlines also offer emergency kits of toiletries at the baggage counter. Ask for them.

If you have checked in special baggage, such as a pram, musical instrument or ski equipment, and it does not arrive, do not buy new items. Renting or buying second-hand will increase your chances of getting a refund.

If your luggage arrives late on your return flight, airlines usually do not pay for a replacement. They argue that passengers have everything they need at home. However, there are special cases where it may be worth taking legal action against the airline.

It depends. In principle, you are covered if your baggage is lost, damaged or delayed during your trip. However, it is only necessary if the value of your baggage exceeds the maximum reimbursable value under the Montreal Convention. This is currently around €1,908. 

Baggage insurance may also be worthwhile if you have valuables such as jewellery or expensive electronics that need special protection, or if you are travelling with special luggage such as sports equipment or musical instruments.

Baggage insurance is usually cheaper when purchased as part of a travel insurance package.

Airlines may limit the weight, size and number of items of hand baggage. The rules vary from airline to airline.

There are no legal restrictions on the size of cabin baggage. There can be big differences between airlines.

At all airports in the EU, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, only small amounts of liquids are allowed in hand luggage.

Whether it is toothpaste, a bottle of water or hand cream, a maximum of 100ml per product is allowed. Liquids must be carried in a clear, resealable plastic bag. One bag (approx. 20 x 20 cm) is allowed per passenger.

Important: For fire safety reasons, e-cigarettes, power banks and batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage only. Valuables such as wallets, smartphones, tablets and laptops should also always be carried in hand luggage.

Sometimes passengers are asked to check in their otherwise permitted hand baggage. There is little point in arguing. It is better to be prepared to get the most important things out with one hand.