How to Handle Lost Luggage

If you fly a lot, it's probably just a matter of time before an airline manages to lose your luggage. The Consumerist explains what you should do in the event your bag goes hopelessly AWOL. Here's an excerpt:

• Make an itemized list of all your lost stuff. The airline is going to compensate you for the depreciated value of your stuff rather than its replacement value. Use this tidbit of information however you see fit, but do understand that airlines will reject a claim that they suspect is fraudulent.
• Expect to negotiate. The airline doesn't want to pay you. They may ask for receipts or other proof of the value of your crap.