Ever wondered what happens to suitcases that get lost or go unclaimed at airports, train stations and on the Tube? Many of them end up at auction, where anyone can bid on them. The thrill is not knowing what you’ll get - and giving unclaimed items a second life rather than sending them to landfill.

Here’s where to buy lost luggage in the UK, what it really costs, and what to know before you bid.

Lost luggage sold at auctions listed on Ganddee

Where does lost luggage end up?

Airlines, airports and transport operators hold on to unclaimed bags for a set period - often around three months - while they try to reunite them with their owners. After that, many sell them through specialist auction houses. Transport for London, for example, auctions the unclaimed items from its lost property office.

Airports don’t usually run the auctions themselves. You buy through an auction house, either in person or online.

UK auction houses that sell lost luggage

Auction houseLocationHow you bidBuyer’s premium
GreasbysTooting, south LondonIn person only23% + VAT
Mulberry Bank AuctionsGlasgowUsually online24% + VAT
Wellers AuctionsGuildford, SurreyMostly onlineAbout 28-30.5% + VAT
BCVABristolOnline only21% + VAT, plus an online bidding fee

Fees and formats change, so check each auction house’s terms before you register. Source: MoneySavingExpert, July 2026.

How much does lost luggage cost?

Expect to pay roughly £30-£70 per suitcase once fees are added. The buyer’s premium and VAT can add between a quarter and over a third to your winning bid, so a £30 bid can easily cost you around £40 by the time you pay.

Set your limit with the fees included, not the hammer price.

What’s actually inside?

Lower your expectations. Before sale, auction houses usually remove valuables such as electronics, jewellery and perfume. Many auctions now sell the empty suitcases on their own, with any contents auctioned separately in mixed lots.

That means the best value is often the suitcase itself. A good-quality case from brands like Samsonite, Tumi, Away or Rimowa can be worth more than you paid. If you do get contents, expect mostly clothes, toiletries and travel bits. It’s mostly luck.

Tips before you bid

  1. Go to the viewing. Most auction houses let you see the lots beforehand. Check the condition of the case, the wheels and the zips.
  2. Look up resale prices. Search the brand and model on eBay or Vinted so you know what it’s worth.
  3. Set a budget including fees - and stick to it. Don’t get carried away by bidding fever.
  4. Check collection rules. You usually need to collect in person, sometimes within a few days, and some auctions ask for a deposit.
  5. Remember all sales are final. There are no returns at auction.

Buying lost parcels online

Some online sellers offer “mystery boxes” of undelivered or unclaimed parcels. One example has been Undelivrd, though we couldn’t confirm it’s still trading, so check before you order. Be wary of mystery box sellers on social media - if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Planning to resell?

If you buy lost luggage to sell on, that’s likely to count as trading, and you may need to tell HMRC. Read our guide to second-hand reselling in the UK for the rules and the best platforms.

Other ways to bag a second-hand bargain

If you like the thrill of the hunt, you’ll love these too:

Lost luggage auctions: FAQs

Can you buy lost luggage in the UK?

Yes. Unclaimed suitcases are sold through auction houses such as Greasbys in London, Mulberry Bank in Glasgow, Wellers in Guildford and BCVA in Bristol.

Do airports sell lost luggage?

Not usually directly. Airlines, airports and transport operators pass unclaimed bags to auction houses, which sell them in person or online.

Is buying lost luggage worth it?

It’s a gamble. Valuables are usually removed, and fees add up. The best value is often a good branded suitcase rather than what’s inside.

Do you get to see inside the suitcase?

Usually not - you can view the case at the viewing, but you won’t know the full contents until you’ve won it.

Ganddee is another great way to score amazing deals. We’re the free app mapping second-hand shops and events across the UK and Ireland, making it easy and fun to find beautiful pre-loved items at a fraction of their retail price!

Find more on Ganddee