The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently raised its liability limit for lost luggage
to $3,000 USD for domestic travel within the United States – $200 USD more than the limit
previously set by the DOT in 2004.
While airlines must comply, travelers should not expect to easily receive that amount, since
airlines ultimately decide how much to compensate a traveler when their baggage is lost. Also,
depending on the airline, items such as jewelry, photos and electronics may not be eligible for
compensation. Many airlines require passengers present receipts for items in their lost luggage
before reimbursement will be issued.
Click on each airline below to view its baggage policies and liability limitations:
Sources: USATODAY, International Air Transport Association