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Traveling can be stressful, and nothing adds to the tension more than waiting at the baggage claim carousel, only to realize your checked bag is nowhere to be found. While a delay is sometimes inevitable, Delta offers a reassuring promise for its passengers: If your checked bag doesn’t arrive at the baggage claim within 20 minutes of landing, you may be eligible for compensation in the form of 2,500 bonus SkyMiles.
Here’s everything you need to know about Delta’s baggage compensation program and how to take advantage of it.
The 20-Minute Baggage Guarantee
Delta’s 20-minute baggage claim guarantee is designed to ensure timely delivery of your checked luggage. If your bag isn’t on the carousel within 20 minutes of your flight’s arrival at a domestic U.S. airport or Puerto Rico, you can receive 2,500 bonus miles—an easy way to earn rewards when things don’t go according to plan.
Who is Eligible for Compensation?
To qualify for this compensation, you must be a SkyMiles member at the time of your flight. If you’re not already a member, it’s a good idea to sign up before you fly. The compensation offer is valid for all domestic flights operated by Delta Air Lines and Delta Connection® carriers, as well as some codeshare flights where the final leg is marketed and operated by Delta.
Related: Earn SkyMiles with every Lyft ride
How to Request Compensation
If your bag takes longer than 20 minutes to arrive, don’t worry—you can easily submit a request online. Here’s what you need to do:
- Submit Your Claim: Complete this baggage claim form. This should be done within three days of your flight’s arrival.
- Provide Required Information: You’ll need to provide your first and last name, SkyMiles number, departure and arrival cities, date of departure, and your trip confirmation number.
- Wait for Your Bonus Miles: After your request is processed, you should see the 2,500 bonus miles in your SkyMiles account within two weeks. Keep in mind, these miles do not count towards Medallion® status or Million Miler™ status.
Important Conditions to Keep in Mind
While this offer is a great perk, there are a few terms and conditions you should be aware of:
- One Claim per Flight: You can only submit one claim per flight, regardless of the number of bags checked.
- Eligible Flights: The compensation is valid only for paid, published fare tickets. Employees traveling on passes or discounted tickets are not eligible.
- Baggage Tracking: Delta’s baggage tracking system, where available, will determine the timing of your bag’s arrival. The clock starts when the aircraft door opens and stops when your bag is placed on the carousel.
Exclusions to Note
Some items are excluded from this offer. For example, oversized or overweight baggage and special items like pets or sporting equipment are not eligible for compensation. Additionally, baggage delays caused by factors beyond Delta’s control—such as severe weather or airport system malfunctions—may not qualify.
Were you aware of this policy? Have you had any delayed baggage to claim miles for? I would love to hear your experience in the comments!
Before you go, check out my curated list of travel essentials to simplify your next journey!
Safe travels!
The Planking Traveler 