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Save on tickets, lose your bags? The FlixBus case
Travelers across Italy have been arriving at their destinations only to discover their properly checked-in, labelled suitcases have vanished without a trace. In response to the growing number of complaints and lack of action, Euroconsumers member Altroconsumo has launched an action against FlixBus.
“My suitcase was stolen without the drivers even noticing.”
“I immediately reported it, but received no assistance.”
“My bag was never returned and is now considered permanently lost.”
These are just a few of the many stories from FlixBus passengers across Italy, but they all sound strikingly similar for one unfortunate reason: FlixBus’s negligence has resulted in travellers losing their luggage.
According to multiple testimonies, there were frequent occasions during trips where the luggage compartment was left accessible to non-passengers, without any staff supervision. In several cases, even the drivers were unaware that unauthorised individuals had opened the compartment and stolen bags during stopovers.
This complete lack of care and the failure to recognise and address such obvious risks has led to travellers losing personal items worth up to €2,000. Worse still, when these passengers contacted FlixBus, they received no compensation or meaningful support.
That’s why Euroconsumers member Altroconsumo has launched an action against FlixBus. At the same time, they are filing an official complaint with Italy’s main public prosecutors, reporting what happened, highlighting some of the most serious incidents, and requesting a full investigation into FlixBus’s lack of vigilance.
The complaint will also be shared with the Italian Antitrust Authority and the National Transport Authority.
Road transport passengers are the Cinderellas of the travel world.
The challenges passengers face often go unnoticed compared to those affecting air or rail travellers. Yet road transport is becoming increasingly popular, largely because it remains one of the most affordable options. But affordability should never come at the cost of safety, oversight, or proper responsibility from transport companies.
At a time when the EU is debating the future of passenger protections through the revision of the Air Passenger Rights Regulation, cases like FlixBus expose just how urgently stronger, clearer, and more enforceable rights are needed- across all modes of transport.
If you experienced similar issues make sure to submit your complaint via the following link
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