Lost Luggage in Italy: What I Learned (and How to Get Reimbursed)

Ah, Italy—land of pasta, prosecco, picturesque hikes… and in my case, lost luggage.

This is the second time my suitcase didn’t make it when I landed for my long-awaited Italian adventure. What followed was a mix of frustration, improvisation, and some surprisingly useful lessons. If you ever find yourself standing at a foreign baggage carousel with nothing but your carry-on and a prayer, here’s what you need to know about surviving the chaos and getting reimbursed.

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1. Yes, You Can Get Reimbursed — But You Need Receipts

Airlines will typically reimburse you for “reasonable necessities” while your luggage is lost. But here’s the catch: they want itemized receipts — not just a total on a slip of paper or a copy of your credit card statement.

👉 Tip: Don’t splurge unnecessarily — they will cap how much they reimburse and scrutinize what’s “reasonable.” $1,500 domestic and around $2,000 international. However, depending on where you are in Italy you can’t help but splurge. Especially when lingerie shops are all you have for underwear.

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2. Don’t Do Laundry at the Hotel

If you’re thinking, “I’ll just wash my clothes and submit the laundry bill,” think again.

Most airlines will not reimburse laundry done at a hotel. That luxurious express service might cost you €50 to wash a pair of leggings — and you’ll be stuck footing the bill.

👉 Better option: Pack a small packet of sink laundry detergent in your carry-on. This is my favorite Sink Laundry Detergent . You can wash your underwear, socks, or basics in the sink, hang them up to dry, and feel like a backpacking legend.

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3. If You’re Missing Sports Gear, Claim It

Planning on hiking, skiing, biking, or any kind of athletic activity? If your gear was in your missing bag, airlines will usually reimburse you for essential replacements so you can still enjoy your trip. We had a 3 day hike planned and my boots, rain gear and poles were all in my checked bag!!

👉 Submit proof of your itinerary or activities, just in case they ask. I even provided the cancellation policy.

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4. AirTags: Peace of Mind or Obsession?

I had an AirTag in my luggage, and let me tell you—it was both a blessing and a curse. Knowing your bag is somewhere at the Venice airport is comforting. But watching it sit unmoved for 3 days and even worse watch it arrive to your hotel only for them to drop off your husbands bag and drive away with yours while you refresh your app every 10 minutes? Maddening.

👉 Verdict: Use AirTags for peace of mind, but don’t let them control your vacation. Sometimes, ignorance really is bliss.

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5. Damaged Bag? Document Everything

If your luggage shows up damaged, airlines will usually reimburse you for a replacement. But you need proof. The TSA luggage locks apparently aren’t universal. They will cut your zippers.

📸 Take clear photos the moment you get your bag back. If it’s missing a wheel, cracked open, or soaked in mystery fluid, document it all. You can also get reimbursed for a tote or duffel to carry the clothes you had to buy in the meantime.

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6. Not All Airlines Are Equal

In my experience, Delta’s lost luggage support was miles ahead of American Airlines. Delta offered better communication, faster reimbursements, and less red tape. American… not so much.

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7. Pack Your Carry-On Like It Matters — Because It Might

If I could do it all over again, OH wait I DID do it all over again. Because of my first lost luggage trip to Italy I made my carry-on a survival kit (What I didn’t know was that I would not get my luggage at all for the 2nd trip) Here’s what I now always include:

• At least 2 full days of outfits

• A pair of socks and underwear

• Basic makeup and skincare

• A swimsuit (if you’re going somewhere warm)

• Chargers and meds

• A small pack of laundry detergent

And remember: there’s no Target in Europe. Finding socks and underwear in a small European town is harder than you think.

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Final Thoughts

Losing your luggage can feel like a nightmare. But with a little preparation and a lot of patience, you’ll survive — and maybe even laugh about it later. (Eventually.)

So go ahead, book that trip. Just don’t forget to pack your essentials where you can reach them, document everything, and save those receipts.

Because when it comes to international travel, sometimes your luggage takes its own vacation.