Not many travelers are aware that the airlines can give you protection for your baggage outside of any travel insurance you might get. This insurance known as excess valuation can be purchased through the airline and this would hold them responsible for up to the amount of $3000 should your baggage end up lost or damaged. This amount is required by the United States, but in some airline companies, they immediately offer $1700 on top of it.
This insurance isn’t normally offered to you so you need to ask about it when you check in. This is important and would be of great use when you are traveling with expensive clothing like wedding attire for instance or if there are important artifacts you have with you. Airline companies don’t refer to it as insurance since they are not insurance company, but just the same, it covers for loss or damage on your checked baggage. Be sure you research this and any other type of insurance, such as adventure travel insurance or backpacking travel insurance.
Naturally, many want to know what the loopholes are, so make sure and clarify with each airline you speak with what their coverages involve. Not all airlines cover for damages but only for loss. Most international airlines do have this, but its really most effective to not try and figure it out online. You should check on this with a representative the moment you are at the airport. Obtaining the information in person in cases like this is going to be crucial.
Be aware that the airline will definitely undervalue what you have. Be sure to note what they are taking out in this policy. They probably won’t cover for things marked as Fragile, business or valuables. So, being able to safeguard any jewelry you are not wearing, or even stashing some cash may not be a good idea.