After a week soaking in the sun, you’re refreshed and ready to get back into the swing of your normal life. You’ve tapped into your inner peace, and nothing can shake you now.
But when you grab your bag from the carousel, you immediately notice a crack in the side of your brand-new hardshell luggage. Inner peace? Out the window.
The good news is that Hawaiian Airlines will compensate you for damage to your checked bags. And I’ve read the fine print on what they owe you, so you don’t have to!
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What Is Hawaiian Airlines Responsible For?
If bags are mishandled and damaged, Hawaiian Airlines is required to cover the cost of repairs or reimbursement for the bag. This isn't just Hawaiian's policy — it's a federal rule by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
However, there’s a maximum liability limit, set at $4,700 per passenger.
If Hawaiian Airlines mishandled your bag, damage will probably look like rips, tears, cracking on hardshell luggage, or broken wheels or straps. And while the airline might be resistant, they cannot exclude liability for wheels and straps, according to the DOT.
Keep in mind you have to be able to claim specific damages in order to receive any compensation — the airline is not responsible for normal wear and tear on luggage.
The airline also has to reimburse you for any damages to the contents inside your bag. For example, if you had a brand-new Patagonia raincoat in your bag and it got torn when they ripped your duffel bag, you can receive compensation for the coat.
And PS, if your bag wasn't damaged but merely delayed, Hawaiian may still owe you compensation!
How To Make a Damaged Baggage Claim with Hawaiian Airlines
The process for reporting a damaged bag to Hawaiian Airlines is very straightforward.
Within 4 hours of the flight's arrival, you need to head to Hawaiian’s Baggage Service Office (near baggage claim) to report the damage.
However, the process to receive compensation isn’t as clear: The website says that after you file the initial report, you can follow up with the airline’s Central Baggage Service Office.
In all likelihood, the agent who assists you with filing the initial damage report will tell you your next steps. They might examine the bag and cut you a check then and there, or have you file a claim online for the central office to look at.
Whatever the next steps actually are, it’s important to connect with an agent from the airline who can tell you exactly what to do next to receive your compensation.
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How To Prevent Damage to Checked Bags
While airlines are legally obligated to compensate you for any damages to your bags, it’s better for it not to happen at all. Plus, no dollar amount can replace your favorite college hoodie if it gets ripped up.
Here are some tips to prevent your bag from getting damaged in the first place:
- Don’t overpack. Stress on zippers and seams makes them more likely to break in transit.
- Don’t check an open bag. Maybe this is a no-brainer, but if your bag doesn’t close all the way, it’s not secure. Items inside will have a much higher likelihood of getting pulled, ripped, or otherwise damaged if your bag is partially open.
- Secure any loose straps. If your bag has straps or catches on the outside, take them off, tuck them in, or otherwise secure them before dropping it off. Straps can catch in the conveyor belt.
- Pack heavy items near the bottom. When you pack heavier things closer to the bottom of the bag, you’ll keep the center of gravity manageable for those who handle your bag, decreasing the likelihood of damage.
- Keep valuables in your carry-on. You’ll have more control over the safety of your laptop, briefcase, or other valuable items if you carry them with you on the plane.
- Don’t travel with worn-out bags. If your bag is already tearing at the seams, you won’t have much of a leg to stand on if the bag falls apart on your next trip.
- Consider a PVC luggage protector. There are TSA-approved luggage sleeves that are tough and durable for air travel. If you really want to keep your luggage pristine, you might want to invest in one.
My rule of thumb is to always snap a picture of my bag before I drop it off. If I get it back and there’s a new crack, I have evidence to prove the damage to the airline.
The DOT has since increased this amount to $4,700!
Insurance Coverage for Damaged Bags
If you have travel insurance, your policy may cover damage to your bags beyond what the airline will cover.
For example, Allianz Travel Insurance covers up to $2,000 per insured traveler for lost/damaged baggage, and World Nomads, which specializes in adventure travel (and equipment), covers up to $3,000.
Your credit card might also protect you. For example, both the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the more premium Chase Sapphire Reserve® will reimburse you up to $3,000 for repairing or replacing baggage that was lost or damaged by the airline.
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FAQs
What types of baggage damage does Hawaiian Airlines NOT cover?
Hawaiian Airlines is not responsible for normal wear and tear on luggage, so you need to prove specific damage occurred during their handling. The airline also assumes no liability for electronic equipment, cash, jewelry, and fragile items.
However, they cannot exclude liability for common damage, such as broken wheels, straps, zippers, or tears in the bag fabric.
What if I leave the airport before realizing my bag has damage?
There's no online reporting option for Hawaiian Airlines, so if you're close to the airport, head back so you can talk face-to-face with an agent from the airline.
If you're unable to return to the airport to make your report, call their Central Baggage Services Office at 866-389-6654 or email them at [email protected].
Should I purchase additional baggage protection?
If you're traveling with expensive gear or luxury items, consider additional coverage from travel insurance.
Check your credit card to see if you already have coverage, then explore travel insurance options like World Nomads or Allianz Travel Insurance.
TL;DR: Claiming Hawaiian Airlines Damaged Bag Compensation
If you notice damage to your bag, you have to report it to Hawaiian Airlines within 4 hours of your flight’s arrival. So don’t leave the airport without giving your bag a quick check!
After reporting the damage to an agent, follow their instructions for getting compensation.
Remember: If they damage your bag, they need to pay for it!
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Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
