Report a missing or damaged bag promptly to the operating airline and obtain a written file or reference number. Keep the bag tag, photos, receipts and communications.
Why the answer can change
DOT explains bag-fee refunds for lost or significantly delayed checked baggage and separate liability rules for contents and damage. Verify which rule applies before claiming an amount.
Check your own trip
- Start with the airline flying each leg, the fare you bought, and the dates on your ticket.
- Count bags for each traveler. Measure the packed outside of every bag, then find both the standard limit and the largest bag the airline will accept.
- Look up the bag fee, extra-piece fee, and any weight or size charge separately. If one amount is missing, you don’t have a complete total yet.
- Check the final price in the airline’s booking or check-in flow, and save the receipt.
Before you pay
Use the size and fee tools to put your bag details in one place. If we can’t confirm the full cost, they’ll tell you what still needs an airline quote.
For a worked example, read Delayed Baggage: Request the Bag-Fee Refund, Not Just a Tracking Update.
Where this gets tricky
A missing bag and a broken suitcase wheel need different evidence. A delay clock also depends on domestic versus international arrival.
Here’s what to check: Report the problem promptly, obtain a file number and keep photos, receipts, tags and delivery messages.
Before you rely on a price
| Check | Why it can change the answer |
|---|---|
| Ticket and fare | A policy can depend on when a ticket was issued or changed, and on the exact fare brand. |
| Bag and owner | Piece number, three outside dimensions and the traveler’s own benefits can alter the charge. |
| Official confirmation | The airline checkout or service desk decides final acceptance, taxes and payment. |
Official sources and evidence
- U.S. DOT: Refunds (official page read; checked 2026-10-31)