Jazmin Li
Checking in a bag at the airport is a straightforward process, but it's important to be aware of the relevant policies and procedures to avoid any unexpected charges or delays. Most airlines allow bags up to 62 linear inches and 50 pounds, but it's crucial to check the specific rules of your chosen airline before packing. Some items, such as alcohol over 70% and fuel-filled lighters, are prohibited from both checked and carry-on bags, so it's essential to familiarise yourself with the restrictions. In terms of the check-in process, you'll usually go to the airline's check-in or baggage desk, where you'll answer questions, have your bag weighed, pay any necessary fees, and receive a tag and receipt for your bag. This process can often be expedited by using a kiosk or checking in online in advance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Where to check a bag | Airline's Check-in or Baggage desk/area |
| Who can accompany | Family members or guardians are allowed to accompany minors or those with disabilities |
| Payment methods | Card (not cash) |
| Baggage fees | Some airlines allow you to pay for your bags online ahead of time, while others require payment at the airport |
| Baggage size and weight | Most airlines allow bags up to 62 linear inches and 50 pounds, but limits vary by airline and route |
| Prohibited items | Firearms, flammable items, alcohol over 70%, containers with more than 3.4 ounces of liquid |
| Baggage claim | You will receive your checked bag at the baggage claim of your final destination |
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What You'll Learn
Checking in bags before security
Locate the Check-In Area
Before entering the security area, locate the airline's check-in or baggage desk/area. You may wait in line or use a kiosk, depending on the airport and airline. Some airlines offer a SKYCAP service, where they have a baggage desk at the drop-off car area, allowing you to check in your bags before entering the airport.
Answering Security Questions
At the check-in counter, you will be asked a series of security questions to ensure you are not carrying any prohibited items. This may include questions about flammable items or other restricted items.
Weighing and Tagging
After the security questions, your bag will be weighed to ensure it meets the weight requirements. If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you may need to pay an overweight baggage fee, usually by card. Once the weight is confirmed, your bag will be tagged with a barcode and the airport code it is going to. If you have multiple connections on the same airline or alliance, your bag will likely be tagged to the final destination.
Payment and Receipt
If you haven't already paid for your checked bag online or through the app, you will need to do so at the check-in counter. After payment, you will receive a receipt for your checked bag.
Security Screening
Once you have checked in your bag, it will be provided to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for security screening. TSA screens checked bags for explosives and other dangerous items. The majority of bags are screened without the need for a physical search. However, if your bag is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag.
It's important to note that anyone accompanying you, such as a family member or friend, can be with you during the check-in process before security. However, only ticketed passengers will be allowed past the security area. Additionally, some airlines may offer the option to prepay for checked bags online, which can sometimes be at a discounted rate compared to paying at the airport.
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Baggage allowances and fees
Some airlines include checked baggage in the price of certain tickets, such as Main Cabin tickets with American Airlines. Others offer the option to buy an upgrade that includes free checked bags. Some airlines also offer discounts on checked baggage fees if you pay online before arriving at the airport. For example, American Airlines offers a $5 discount on the first checked bag fee when travelling within or between the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
If you are travelling with more than one person on the same reservation, you may be able to save money on checked baggage fees by selecting bags and checking in together at a kiosk. Additionally, some credit cards offer reimbursement for checked baggage fees, so it may be worth considering signing up for one of these cards if you frequently travel with checked luggage.
It is important to note that overweight and oversized bags incur additional fees, which can be substantial. These fees are typically calculated based on standard bag sizes and weights. Therefore, it is crucial to check the specific weight and size limits of your airline to avoid unexpected charges.
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Bag weight and size limits
It is important to note that overweight or oversized bags may incur additional fees, which can be substantial. These fees vary depending on the airline and the weight or size of the bag. For example, Allegiant charges $50 per segment for bags between 51 and 70 pounds, and $75 per segment for bags between 71 and 99 pounds. Similarly, Frontier Airlines charges $75 for bags weighing 41 to 50 pounds and $100 for bags weighing 51 to 100 pounds.
To avoid unexpected charges, it is recommended to check the specific baggage policies of your airline before packing. Some airlines provide the option to prepay for luggage online, which may be cheaper than paying at the airport. Additionally, certain items, such as lithium batteries, have specific packing and handling requirements that must be followed.
When checking in a bag at the airport, you will typically go to the airline's check-in or baggage desk. The agent will weigh your bag and may ask you to repack if it exceeds the weight limit. You may also need to pay for any overweight or oversized baggage at this point. Your bag will then be tagged with a barcode and the airport code before you proceed through security.
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Restrictions on bag contents
When checking a bag at the airport, it is important to be aware of the restrictions on the contents of your luggage. These restrictions are in place for the safety of the flight and to comply with local laws. Failure to adhere to these restrictions may result in delays, fines, or legal consequences. Here are some key points to consider:
- Flammable Items and Dangerous Goods: Airlines prohibit carrying flammable items and dangerous goods in checked baggage. This includes items such as lighters, matches, fireworks, and flammable liquids like gasoline or paint thinner. These items pose a significant safety risk and must be avoided.
- Electronic Devices and Batteries: Any electronic devices in checked baggage must be turned off completely and not left in sleep or hibernation mode. Additionally, remove batteries from devices and carry them in your hand luggage. This is particularly important for lithium-ion batteries, which are considered a fire hazard. Keep in mind that some airlines may have specific policies regarding battery-powered personal transportation devices.
- Weapons and Sharp Objects: Weapons, including firearms and ammunition, are typically not allowed in carry-on baggage but can be transported in checked bags if properly declared and packaged. Stun guns and shocking devices must be transported in a way that prevents accidental discharge. Sharp objects like knives, scissors, and razors are also prohibited in carry-on baggage and should be securely packed in checked luggage.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks with more than 70% alcohol by volume are prohibited. You can usually carry a maximum of 5 liters per person of beverages between 24% and 70% alcohol in checked luggage. However, specific customs regulations may vary by country, so it is essential to check local laws.
- Size and Weight Restrictions: Most airlines have size and weight limits for checked baggage. The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) are typically around 62 inches, and the weight limit is generally 50 pounds. Oversized or overweight bags may incur additional fees, so it is crucial to check the specific policies of your airline.
- Prohibited Items: Certain items are strictly prohibited from being transported in checked baggage. These may include illegal substances, hazardous materials, and items that pose a security risk. Always refer to the guidelines provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or the relevant authorities in your country for a comprehensive list of prohibited items.
Remember to carefully review the baggage policies of your specific airline, as well as the regulations of the countries you are travelling to and from. By being aware of the restrictions on bag contents and planning your packing accordingly, you can help ensure a smoother travel experience and avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
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Retrieving checked bags
If you have a layover or a stopover that involves changing airlines or terminals, you may need to pick up your bag from baggage claim and re-check it. This is particularly relevant if your layover/stopover was separately booked, not on the same airline alliance, and your bag was not tagged through to your final destination. In this case, you will also need to go through security again, so ensure you have ample time between flights. If you need to clear customs/immigration at a layover/stopover, you will get your bag during that stop and then re-check it.
It is important to note that in most cases, only passengers are allowed beyond the check-in area and security. However, if you are an unaccompanied minor, some airlines or airports may allow a family member to accompany you through security with a gate pass.
While the process of retrieving checked bags is generally simple, there is a small chance that your bag may be lost or delayed. Fortunately, most airlines have a luggage tracking system and work diligently to return luggage to its owner as soon as possible.
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Frequently asked questions
Before going through security, go to the airline's check-in or baggage desk/area. You can wait in line or use a kiosk to get a physical boarding pass.
An airline representative will ask you questions to ensure you are not carrying anything banned, such as flammables. They will then weigh your bag and, if necessary, charge you for baggage or overweight baggage. They will then tag your bag with a barcode and the airport code it is going to.
Yes, some airlines allow you to pay for checked bags online or in their app. This may be cheaper than paying at the airport.
Most airlines allow bags up to 62 linear inches and 50 pounds. You can pack alcohol under 70% ABV and small bottles of alcohol under 3.4 ounces. Solid foods are allowed but may be restricted by customs at your destination.
Yes, in most countries, anyone can enter the airport as far as check-in where you drop your checked bags. Anyone who is not flying will not be allowed past security.
