11 Types of Lost Baggage Coverage You Can Claim (What To File & How Much)

6. Missing contents — partial loss or theft

When baggage arrives but items inside are missing, you may have a partial loss or theft claim. Report the missing contents to the airline immediately and file a written claim that lists each missing article. Some airlines separate “missing contents” from fully lost baggage and will investigate theft or mishandling. If theft is suspected, a police report may strengthen your claim and meet insurer requirements, particularly for higher-value items. Insurers often require receipts, serial numbers, and photos proving ownership and value. Document how the bag was packed and secure any warranty or purchase paperwork you have. If items are covered by separate warranties or credit-card purchase protection, notify those providers as well. Keep communications with the airline and insurer in writing and follow their specific deadlines. Note that proving contents can be harder than proving a bag was lost, so thorough documentation makes a big difference in outcomes.