Baggage Claim
When you enter the baggage claim area, look for the monitor displaying your flight number (if it is more than one belt in the area). If you have more than one bag or heavy baggage, you should pick up a baggage trolley. On most airports, the baggage trolleys are free to use. Stand with your belt and wait for the baggage; it might take long time before it is arriving. Many airports are displaying on the monitors what flight's baggage, which are on the belt (if more than one flight is using the same belt).
Some airports have arrival shops in the baggage claim area that is worth a visit while waiting for your baggage. If you feel the need for visiting a toilet, it might be a good thing to do it before your baggage arrive.
What to do if the baggage is missing
If your baggage is not arriving, (it happens occasionally) go to the arrival service stand and report your baggage missing. You have to provide the baggage receipt that you have got from the check-in and you have to describe your baggage (color, size, type, etc.). Most missing baggage is coming with a later plane. Make a transport agreement with the arrival service to get the baggage transported to your address at the destination. Leave your phone number to the arrival service, and request a phone number where you can contact the arrival service. If you are arriving from an international flight, go to the customs and tell them about your baggage lost to avoid further delays.
What to do if your baggage is damaged
If your baggage has been damaged during the flight, go directly to the arrival service and report the damage. The arrival service will (should) help you to report the incident. If you have a camera, take pictures of the damage (insurance companies love pictures). The service varies between countries and airlines, sometimes the airlines are paying for the damages and sometimes you have to cover it using your travel insurance. Always check for damages before leaving the baggage claim area.
