Have you ever been in this situation? You’ve just arrived at your destination and are eagerly waiting for your bag to appear at the carousel. After everyone has happily retrieved their bags, you’re still stuck with no luggage in sight. Lost and mishandled bags are frustrating, and even more so since airlines charge upwards of $45 per first bag on domestic flights! There’s good news – U.S. airlines have handled around 1.1 million bags so far in 2026, and fortunately only around 0.5 bags per 100 end up mishandled. Some airlines are better at keeping track of bags than others, though. Here’s how the airlines stack up, and tips to avoid dreaded lost bags.
Mishandled defined. A bag that is delayed, damaged, stolen, or lost is considered mishandled according to the airlines. The good news is this means most bags aren’t lost forever. Most are delivered within a day or two or can be retrieved at the airport. While still a hassle, only a very small number of bags are never retrieved. There is also a slight improvement in bag handling compared to 2025. Last year, 0.52 per 100 bags were mishandled. So while small, this year is trending in the right direction!
How do airlines compare? Some airlines have better performance than others when handling bags. Part of this is due to the hub-and-spoke system of some larger carriers, with layovers increasing the risk of delayed bags. Note also that some airlines such as Sky West, Republic, and PSA are regional subsidiaries of larger airlines that operate under the flagship name of larger carriers.
Mishandled bags per 100 bags checked in:
- American: 0.72
- United: 0.66
- Sky West: 0.55
- Republic: 0.53
- Alaska/Hawaii: 0.53
- Frontier: 0.51
- PSA: 0.44
- Delta: 0.38
- Southwest: 0.32
- Jet Blue: 0.31
- Allegiant: 0.12
How to help prevent mishandled bags: There is no sure-fire way to make sure your bags arrive when you do, but being proactive will keep your trip on track.
Tag your bags: An easily-identifiable tag with your contact information can go a long way in identifying lost bags. If you’re tech savvy, consider putting an Apple Airtag in your bag (around $29 for 1 or $99 for a 4-pack). If you’re comfortable sharing your data, some airlines also let you connect Apple’s Share Item Location with them.
Hold onto luggage receipt. The easiest way that airlines identify bags is by the barcoded bag tag on the luggage. When checking bags, you’ll be given a small receipt that has the bag’s tracking number. Make sure to keep this handy in case you need to file a report with the airline. Also, file that report before you leave the airport when possible to avoid long holds and transfers on the phone.
Take a photo. Take a quick photo of the exterior and inside of your luggage before checking it. That way any damage can be documented, and it makes it easier to file an insurance claim for the value of your belongings.
Fly direct when possible. Layovers, and especially short ones, greatly increase the chance of your bag not making it on the flight. Often this means your bag will show up on the next flight, but even short delays in retrieving your belongings can be a hassle.
Snag earlier boarding. Planes fly full these days, and if you’re in the later boarding groups, chances are you might need to gate check your items. The chances of a bag going missing in these instances are rare, but just in case many airlines allow earlier boarding for a small fee.
Keep essentials with you. Whether it’s a last-minute gate check or a delayed bag, it’s important to keep your essential items in your small carry-on. This includes medication, travel documents, and a change of clothes. Anything you can’t do without should stay with you in case your bag is mishandled.
Delayed, damaged, or lost bags can be a major stressor on vacation. Fortunately, it’s a relatively rare occurrence, but it’s one more item to consider when choosing an airline. Being proactive and planning for the worst can also keep your trip on track, even if bags are only delayed for a day or two.
Do you have other tips for avoiding mishandled bags? We’d love to hear about them! Leave us a comment on our Facebook page to start the discussion.
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