TravelTravel NewsTravelThis 'really important' step could save a major headache later on if things go wrong11:10, 21 May 2026People should add one simple thing to their holiday prep checklist, as it could make a big difference should problems arise at the airport. This two-second task should be done while packing and before suitcases are zipped up.‌Travel expert Kate (@Thedonnellyedit) claims that most people who are about to jet off on holiday should do one important thing before closing up thier suitcases. She said this "really important" step could be the difference in saving you hundreds of pounds.‌Taking a photo of what is going inside your luggage is a step almost every holidaymaker forgets to do when preparing, but it could be your best defence if something goes wrong once you head abroad. Kate said: "You need to be taking a photo of the contents of your suitcase, especially any expensive high-value items such as clothing or electrical goods."‌Having this documented can help in the event that the property is damaged or suitcases go missing between airports. Clearly documenting what was inside your suitcase prior to handing it over to the airline will help with any future insurance claim.Content cannot be displayed without consentHow long does a suitcase have to be missing before I can claim?Kate said: "If you go on holiday and your luggage does not travel with you and is still not returned after 21 days, then it's officially classed as lost and you can file a formal compensation claim."‌This 21-day rule comes from the internationally recognised Montreal Convention, which states that airlines have a specific period to locate your missing baggage. The convention also protects against delayed and damaged goods during airline transport.Kate said: "As part of that claim, the airline might ask you to show proof of the contents and the value of the suitcase. If you've taken photos, this just means that you can do that a whole lot easier."‌"It also means there are no delays with the claim, and you get the money that you are entitled to. So next time you go on holiday, take a few photos of the inside of your case and keep any receipts of high-value items that you may have purchased specifically for the holiday."My suitcase has gone missing - what should I do now?It is important to follow all the right steps when relocating your suitcase, as this can strengthen your case for reimbursement if it becomes "permanently lost". These all start from the moment something goes wrong at the airport, and the issue is first noticed:At the airport: Immediately find someone to report your missing bag. This is usually your airline’s baggage desk before leaving the airport to get a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Some airports may have self-serve machines where issues can be reported.Within 21 days (If the bag is delayed): If you are reunited with your bag within 21 days, you can still claim for emergency essential purchases (like basic clothing and toiletries). Submit your receipts in writing to the airline as soon as possible.Day 22 and beyond (if the bag is permanently lost): Once your bag reaches the 21-day mark, you can claim the total value of your bag and its contents.Article continues belowBecause airline caps rarely cover the full value of a new suitcase and high-value items, your travel insurance is usually the best route to recover the full replacement value. To ensure your claim isn't rejected, keep hold of evidence such as the original Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the baggage desk, your boarding passes, luggage tag stickers, and receipts for any emergency items you bought while waiting for your bag.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌TravelTravel insuranceAir travelHolidays