Norwegian delayed baggage compensation.
How much can you claim? What are the rules?
Losing your baggage while traveling can be one of the most frustrating experiences you can have. You may realize that your suitcase did not make it to your destination as you wait patiently by the baggage carousel in the airport. There are several reasons why your baggage may be delayed, including mishandling, delayed or canceled flights, or even airport staff negligence.
If your luggage is lost, what should you do?
What to Do If Your Luggage Is Lost?
Firstly, stay in the area where you picked up your baggage.
Then, locate the Baggage Service Office, which is typically situated near the baggage carousels in the same area. Here, you can report the loss of your baggage.
If you don’t do this, you won’t get delayed baggage compensation.
To file the report, you will need to provide your passport, boarding pass, and baggage tag (a small sticker affixed to your boarding pass during check-in). If you have a photo of your baggage or any other relevant details, it can help expedite the process of finding your bag. However, if you only have your passport and boarding pass, don’t worry; go ahead and file the report anyway.
After filing the report, you will receive a written confirmation (known as a Property Irregularity Report or PIR) containing a personal reference number and instructions on the next steps. Keep this document safe, as you may need it later. Typically, it takes around 12-24 hours for Norwegian or airport staff to contact you to arrange for your bag’s delivery.
Tracking Your Lost Baggage
After receiving a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the airport staff, be sure not to lose it since you’ll need it to track your baggage online.
To check the status of your lost baggage, use an online baggage tracing system (the World Tracer Tool). You’ll need to provide your PIR number along with other required details such as your name and travel date. Note that the number on your baggage tag is not the same as your PIR number.
Norwegian Delayed Baggage Compensation
What are your rights if your baggage is delayed?
Could you be entitled to delayed baggage compensation from Norwegian?
Baggage Delayed for More Than 5 Days
If your baggage goes missing, Norwegian airport representatives will assist in locating it during the first 5 days. You can find their contact information on your Property Irregularity Report. If your baggage is still missing after 5 days, the Norwegian Baggage Department will take over the search.
Reimbursement of Expenses
Keep in mind that you can claim for the costs of purchasing toiletries and other essential items that were packed in your checked baggage, or for renting crucial equipment if your own is delayed. The costs should be within reasonable limits.
Don’t forget that only essential items are eligible for reimbursement!
The claim must be filed within 21 days from the date when the lost baggage is received.
Lost Baggage (You Can Get Compensation)
Norwegian has 21 days to locate and return your baggage.
If your delayed baggage cannot be found within this period, it is considered officially lost. You can then file a compensation claim with the airline, which may entitle you to receive up to €1300.
However, it’s important to note that carrying valuables such as electronics, jewellery, or art in your checked baggage is not recommended. Norwegian (as well as other airlines) are not liable to compensate for the full value of such items, but only up to the extent specified by the Montreal Convention and the airline’s Conditions of Carriage.
When filing a claim, you’ll need to present your boarding pass, baggage tags, and the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) that includes your reference number. Additionally, if you had had any additional expenses while waiting for your baggage, you can submit a claim by providing receipts for your purchases.
Is Travel Insurance Necessary?
The answer is – it depends on your personal situation.
While it is not mandatory to provide proof of insurance when making a claim, it’s highly recommended to purchase insurance before embarking on your trip.
Having travel insurance can provide peace of mind while traveling, particularly if unexpected issues arise. Your travel insurance provider can assist you in dealing with most scenarios, making your trip more enjoyable. Additionally, some travel insurance policies are reasonably priced, making it worthwhile to consider purchasing insurance or using a travel debit/credit card that includes insurance coverage.
If your baggage is lost or delayed through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to a refund for essential purchases under your insurance policy, which could be simpler than dealing directly with the airline.
Before making any purchases, you should contact your insurer and retain all receipts. If you don’t have receipts, you won’t receive a refund. It’s critical to inquire about the coverage details of your policy, including whether it includes baggage delay coverage.
Travel Prepared
Pack a spare set of clothes and undergarments in your hand baggage for potential baggage loss or delay. This is crucial when traveling to tropical destinations where you might require specific clothing and swimwear.
As a precaution, keep your medicines and valuable items in your hand baggage in case your checked-in baggage gets delayed or lost.
What is your experience with baggage delays on Norwegian flights? Has Norwegian ever lost your baggage? Have you ever applied for “Norwegian delayed baggage compensation” (reimbursement of expenses in case of baggage delay)?
Please note that the rules for compensation for delayed or lost baggage with Norwegian are the same as those for other airlines. This is due to the Montreal Convention, which applies to the carriage of baggage on most international flights operated by Norwegian and other airlines globally.
Featured photo by Markus Winkler from Pexels