Good luck. I’m afraid that leaving without speaking to someone at bag services may put you behind the eight ball. However, even if you had, the options were probably limited to a cheapie throwaway replacement or a claim process that would result in a check for a depreciated value of your bag (if you were able to provide a receipt).
From the
Baggage FAQ:
Within four hours of arrival at your final destination, please go to the Southwest Airlines Baggage Service Office located in the baggage claim area or the airport ticket counter. Show the baggage to the Southwest Airlines Baggage Service Agent so he/she can assess the damage and liability. While we will do all that we can to rectify the situation, know that we are not liable for manufacturer defects or for minor damage arising from normal wear and tear, such as cuts, scratches, scuffs, stains, dents, punctures, marks, and dirt. Also, keep in mind that we are not liable for baggage carried in the passenger compartment of the aircraft or any items contained in a bag that was deemed to be overstuffed.
Call Baggage services @
- Baggage - (Delayed/Damaged)
1-888-202-1024
Or try the social media teams. Be sure to say that nobody was at the bag claim office. I wouldn’t say “we didn’t have time to stick around.”