Originally Posted by plunet

Also remember that airlines are liable for direct expenses relating from their failure to provide the contract (eg. replacement flight where the airline is unable to assist, replacement clothes where baggage is lost) but not indirect expenses unless mandated by other rules such as EU261, which includes duty of care (accommodation, food and drink but not alcohol, phone calls). Your travel insurance may pick up other indirect expenses but your insurer will usually expect you to go after their airline for their liabilities.