Business travellers heading into the autumn peak should brace for potential baggage disruption, with new data showing October is historically one of the worst months for lost luggage.
In 2025, it recorded the second‑highest number of missing‑bag complaints across UK airports — and with recent air‑traffic issues still fresh, experts warn that travellers could face similar challenges this year.
Travel specialist Hoppa has issued guidance to help passengers act quickly and effectively if their luggage fails to appear on the carousel. “Losing luggage is always stressful, but not knowing what to do can make it even worse,” says Chris Harrington, Managing Director at Hoppa. “The faster and more informed your response is, the better your chances of recovering your bag or receiving timely updates.”
For business travellers — often carrying laptops, presentation materials, and time‑sensitive items — speed and process matter. Hoppa’s advice centres on immediate reporting, providing detailed descriptions, securing a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), checking allowances for essentials, and filing insurance claims promptly if needed.
Under the Montreal Convention, airlines must compensate passengers for lost, damaged or delayed luggage up to £1,300 — a crucial protection for travellers whose work depends on their equipment arriving with them.
Where Problems Occur Most
In 2025, British Airways recorded the highest number of accepted ADR baggage complaints (896), followed by Ryanair (693) and Wizz Air (208). London Heathrow was linked to the most complaints for both arrivals and departures, ahead of Gatwick and Manchester.
Why This Matters for Business Travellers
Autumn is one of the busiest periods for corporate travel — conferences, Q4 planning, international meetings — and disruptions can derail schedules fast. Hoppa’s guidance is designed to help travellers act decisively, minimise downtime, and ensure they have the right documentation if compensation or insurance claims become necessary.
With October historically prone to baggage issues and UK airports still recovering from operational strain, business travellers should prepare for potential delays — and know exactly what to do if their luggage goes missing. Fast reporting, detailed information, and proper documentation remain the most effective ways to get bags back quickly or secure compensation.
