11 travel insurance flight benefits you should know

5. Baggage loss, damage, and delay protection

Baggage protection reimburses for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and pays for essentials when checked bags are delayed. Most travel insurance policies act as secondary coverage, meaning the airline’s liability is considered first and the insurer reimburses what the airline does not cover. Common limits are per-item caps and an overall baggage limit, so expensive items like cameras or jewelry may need separate coverage. A typical scenario: your bag is delayed for two days; the insurer pays for necessary replacements such as clothes and toiletries up to the daily limit. For lost or damaged luggage, you’ll need the airline’s report and receipts for valuable items where possible. Tip: Inventory expensive items before travel and photograph them; consider scheduled-item coverage or credit card protections for high-value belongings. Takeaway: Baggage coverage fills gaps after airline compensation and helps you keep the trip going when luggage goes missing.