Update on - 24 Oct 2025
Baggage delay is a common travel issue that can be especially stressful when essential items are in your missing suitcase. To ease the inconvenience, travel insurance online often includes something known as baggage delay cover, which helps you manage expenses until your luggage arrives. In this blog, you'll learn how this coverage works, what it includes and the steps to take if your baggage is delayed.
What is baggage delay cover in travel insurance?
Baggage delay cover is a part of the travel insurance policy that provides you with financial help when your checked-in baggage is delayed by the airline. If your luggage is late, you might need to buy some emergency items such as clothes, medicines and other other essentials. This cover helps you pay for those costs.
How baggage delay coverage works
Baggage delay coverage in travel insurance reimburses you for your checked luggage, which includes your personal belongings and other necessities. It pays for the expense of necessities you must buy in the event that the airline delays your checked baggage.
Depending on the policy you buy, the amount of baggage delay insurance you’ll get varies. However, the majority of insurance plans will pay for necessities like clothing, toiletries and prescription drugs. Some policies may also pay for lodging and travel expenses if a baggage delay leaves you stranded.
Benefits of having baggage delay cover
Baggage delay cover can be extremely helpful while travelling. It allows you to stay comfortable and continue your trip without the hassle of urgently borrowing or searching for essentials.
The coverage reimburses the cost of necessary items like toiletries, clothes and medication, easing the financial burden. Most importantly, it reduces stress, knowing that your insurance has you covered in case your baggage is delayed.
What to do if your baggage is delayed?
If your baggage is delayed, start by reporting it immediately at the airline’s help desk and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or similar document as proof. This is essential for filing an insurance claim.
Next, purchase only essential items like toiletries or clothing, and keep all receipts for reimbursement. Inform your insurance provider as soon as possible so they can guide you through the claim process and any specific documentation required.
Inclusions & exclusions of baggage delay cover
Before you rely on the baggage delay cover, it's crucial to understand what is and isn’t covered. Every international travel insurance policy has certain rules, so knowing the exclusions and inclusions will help you avoid confusion when making a claim.
Inclusions:
- Delayed checked-in luggage for more than the allowed time (for instance, 6-12 hours).
- Cost of emergency items such as medicines, clothes or toiletries.
- Reimbursement up to a specific limit.
Exclusions:
- Delay of cabin baggage (a carry-on bag).
- Delay less than the minimum time set by the insurance policy.
- Items not considered important.
- No proper receipts or documents.
- Delay on return to your home nation (in several cases).
Conclusion
Baggage delay can be frustrating, but with the right insurance cover, it becomes much easier to manage. Baggage delay insurance helps you cover the cost of essential items while you wait for your luggage to arrive. Keep in mind to follow all the right steps and keep all the bills and documents. With proper coverage, it’s one less thing to worry about during your trip.
If you’re planning to travel, don’t wait until it's way too late. Get the correct travel insurance advice by filling out the form on this page. It’s a quick way to make sure you have the correct protection during your journey.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.