The U.S. Department of Transportation in October clarified an existing rule that carriers cover all expenses incurred by passengers because of lost or delayed luggage up to $3,300 per traveler on domestic flights…

The department noted that several airlines had policies that would reimburse travelers only for essential items bought after 24 hours, and only on the outbound legs of their trips…

“Travelers should not have to pay for toiletries or other necessities while they wait for baggage misplaced by airlines,” Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a written statement issued then. “We expect airlines to comply with all of our regulations and will take enforcement action if they do not.”

Airlines may also offer travelers whose bags don’t arrive with them some complimentary emergency items. Delta, for instance, will often give passengers a kit containing a toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash.

Despite the federal rules, airlines generally state in their contracts of carriage that they won’t reimburse passengers for the loss of electronics, or other high-value items.

Once a delayed bag arrives, carriers typically deliver it to its owner. But Southwest will give a travel credit that can be used on a future flight if a passenger picks up the bag.” ( via  usatoday.com) by Charisse Jones

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