Lost luggage compensation in the Netherlands

The short answer

For lost luggage, you receive maximum 1,288 SDR (Special Drawing Rights), which converts to approximately €1,400. This maximum applies regardless of your luggage's actual value. The airline only compensates proven damage, so you must demonstrate what was in your suitcase and its worth. Do you have travel insurance? Then you might receive additional compensation. The exact compensation depends on what you can prove and how old your belongings were.

What does Dutch law say?

The Montreal Convention regulates worldwide what airlines must compensate for luggage problems. This convention sets a maximum of 1,288 SDR per passenger for all luggage damage combined. Dutch courts apply these international rules in luggage cases. The airline is automatically liable unless they can prove the damage isn't their fault. You have 21 days to report damage and maximum 2 years to start legal proceedings.

What should you watch out for?

Compensation is based on replacement value minus depreciation, not the purchase price of your items. Therefore, always keep purchase receipts and photograph valuable items before travelling. Note that some items like jewellery, electronics, or medication have limited compensation. Good travel insurance can bridge the gap between actual damage and airline compensation.

Practical example

Maria's suitcase is lost on her trip to Spain. The suitcase contains clothing worth €800, shoes worth €300, and a laptop worth €1,000. She reports this immediately to the airline and submits her receipts. Because her clothing and shoes are one year old, she receives 80% compensation (€880). For the laptop, which is two years old, she receives 60% (€600). In total, Maria would receive €1,480, but due to the €1,400 maximum, she ultimately receives that amount.

What can you do?

Follow these steps to receive compensation for lost luggage under Dutch travel law.