• Jul 07, 2025
• By Matthews

How to Get Reimbursement for Lost Luggage Without Receipts

Losing luggage during travel is frustrating, but the situation becomes even more challenging when you don’t have receipts for your lost items. Many airlines and travel insurance providers require proof of purchase to process reimbursement claims. However, there are still ways to recover compensation even without receipts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Report the Loss Immediately

As soon as you realize your luggage is missing, file a report with the airline or transportation provider. Most companies have a limited window (usually 24–48 hours) for reporting lost baggage. Obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or a written acknowledgment of your claim.

2. Check Airline Policies

Airlines are often liable for lost luggage under international regulations like the Montreal Convention or Warsaw Convention, which may entitle you to compensation (typically up to ,500–,500 depending on the airline). Even without receipts, airlines may offer a standard reimbursement amount.

3. Provide Alternative Proof of Ownership

If you don’t have receipts, gather other evidence such as:

showing purchases.

of the items in your luggage.

(if someone saw you packing the items).

4. Submit a Detailed Inventory

Create a comprehensive list of lost items, including:
– Descriptions (brand, model, color, size).
– Approximate purchase dates.
– Estimated value (use current market prices if possible).

5. Claim Through Travel Insurance

If you have travel insurance, check your policy for “lost baggage” coverage. Some insurers accept claims without receipts if you provide reasonable proof. Be persistent—insurance adjusters may initially deny claims but reconsider with strong evidence.

6. Negotiate with the Airline

If the airline offers a low settlement, politely negotiate by:
– Citing airline policies or international regulations.
– Providing additional documentation (e.g., replacement costs from retailers).
– Escalating to a supervisor or filing a complaint with a regulatory body (e.g., DOT in the U.S.).

7. Consider Small Claims Court

If the airline or insurer refuses fair compensation, you may file a claim in small claims court. Judges often consider circumstantial evidence when receipts are unavailable.

Final Tips

While getting reimbursement without receipts can be difficult, it’s not impossible. By providing alternative evidence and following the right steps, you can maximize your chances of recovering compensation for lost luggage.

Would you like assistance drafting a formal complaint letter to an airline? Let me know how I can help further!