What Do You Mean You've Lost My Luggage???

One of the worst things that could happen to me while I'm traveling is an airline losing my luggage. Not only do you have to buy clothes and toiletries for the first few days of your vacation until they finally ship your luggage over to you, but the airlines don't typically do much to make up for the mistake.

I understand that there are hundreds of flights coming in and out each day and that confusion between luggage and flights can be mis-communicated but it still doesn't stop me from starting - or finishing - my trip on a negative note.

Has an airline ever lost your luggage? If so, how long did it take for you to get it back?