Jazmin Li
Checking in luggage at the airport can be a tedious process. A checked bag is a piece of luggage that is handed over to an airline check-in agent at the airport and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Checked bags are usually larger than carry-on bags and may contain items not allowed in carry-on luggage, such as liquids, gels, creams, and pastes. Checking in a bag involves queuing at the check-in desk, answering questions about restricted items, weighing the bag, paying any associated fees, and receiving a receipt. The bag is then tagged and transported to the cargo hold, remaining inaccessible to passengers during the flight. Upon arrival, checked bags are retrieved from baggage claim in the arrivals hall.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Checked baggage is luggage that goes in the cargo hold under the plane during the flight. |
| Check-in process | Before security and departure, you'll need to queue at the check-in desk. You'll answer questions to ensure you're not carrying anything banned, and your bag may be weighed. If you need to pay for baggage, you'll do so at this point. Your bag will then be tagged with a barcode and the airport code. |
| Restrictions | There are restrictions on what you can bring in a checked bag. The TSA provides a detailed list of items allowed in a carry-on vs. a checked bag. Some items allowed in checked bags include ammunition, guns, alcohol, axes, baseball bats, and ski poles. |
| Weight and size limits | The typical weight limit is 50 pounds/23 kilograms, but this can vary by airline, route, and travel class. The maximum allowed dimensions are usually 62 inches. |
| Fees | Many airlines charge fees for checked bags, which can range from $25 to over $80 each way. Some airlines offer the first checked bag for free for certain ticket types or elite members. |
| Convenience | Checked bags can be less convenient as you'll need to arrive at the airport earlier and wait longer at baggage claim upon arrival. You also won't have access to your checked bag during the flight. |
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What You'll Learn
Checked baggage fees
Most major US airlines charge fees for checked bags, with the first checked bag typically starting at $35 each way and increasing for additional bags. Some airlines, like Southwest, previously allowed two checked bags for free, but as of May, they will also charge for checked bags. On the other hand, Spirit and Frontier are known for having higher baggage fees, with a standard checked bag weight limit of 40 pounds instead of the usual 50 pounds.
It's important to note that checked baggage fees are usually non-refundable and apply per person, each way, even if you purchase an upgrade that includes free checked bags. Additionally, overweight and oversize bags may incur additional charges, and certain items are restricted from being transported in checked baggage.
When considering checked baggage fees, it's advisable to review the specific policies of the airline you're travelling with and plan your luggage accordingly to avoid unexpected costs.
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Checked baggage restrictions
A checked bag is a piece of luggage that is handed over to an airline agent at the airport and placed in the cargo hold of the plane during the flight. It is inaccessible to passengers during the flight. The typical weight limit for a checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kilograms), but this can vary by airline, route, and travel class. Some airlines allow bags weighing up to 70 pounds (32 kilograms) in premium cabins or for elite members.
Checked bags can be larger than carry-on bags, but they also have maximum allowed weights and dimensions. The size limits are usually calculated by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag (length + width + height). Most airlines allow checked bags with dimensions of 62 inches or less.
There are restrictions on what can be brought in checked baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) must be packed in checked baggage. These items should be placed in a secure, tamper-evident bag and must be screened and cleared. Other items that are commonly allowed in checked bags include ammunition, guns, alcohol, axes, hatchets, baseball bats, Swiss army knives, snow spikes, and ski poles.
Some items are prohibited from being transported in checked baggage, such as sparklers, fireworks, spray paint, and fuels. It is important to note that any item that triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears tampered with, or poses security concerns may be subject to additional screening or may not be allowed, even if it is generally permitted.
Checked baggage fees vary by airline, route, and travel class. Some airlines charge for checked bags, while others offer the first checked bag for free, especially for economy or higher-class tickets. It is often more expensive to pay for checked bags at the airport, and some airlines offer discounted rates for booking bags in advance.
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Checked baggage size and weight limits
Checked baggage is luggage that is stored in the cargo hold of the plane during the flight. It is common for airlines to charge fees for checked baggage, which can vary depending on the number of bags, their weight, and the route or travel class. Some airlines may offer the first checked bag for free, especially for premium cabins or elite members.
In terms of size, checked bags usually have a maximum allowed dimension of 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Some airlines may have different size restrictions, but the 62-inch rule is commonly followed. While checked bags can be larger than carry-on bags, it is important to ensure that your luggage is durable and does not exceed the weight and size limits established by your chosen airline.
It is worth noting that some items are only permitted in checked bags or carry-on luggage. Sporting equipment, sharp objects, and potential weapons must generally be placed in checked baggage. Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes are also allowed in checked baggage, but in larger quantities than what is permitted in carry-on luggage. It is always advisable to check with your airline to understand their specific restrictions and requirements for checked baggage.
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Checked baggage drop-off process
The checked baggage drop-off process can vary depending on the airport and airline, but there are some standard procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide to the checked baggage drop-off process:
Check-in
Firstly, you will need to go to the check-in counter or the airline's baggage drop-off point before passing through security. At this point, you may need to answer questions regarding the contents of your bag, and it may be weighed. If you need to pay for checked baggage or excess weight, you will usually do so at the check-in desk, and most airlines will only accept card payments.
Tagging
Once your bag has been checked and any necessary payments made, the airline representative will attach a tag with a barcode and the airport code. This helps with identification and routing your bag to the correct destination.
X-ray and Screening
Checked bags go through their own X-ray machines and are screened separately from carry-on luggage. This is a mandatory security measure, and your bag may be searched as part of this process.
Conveyor System
After checking in your bag, it will be transported via a conveyor belt system to the baggage handling area. From there, baggage handlers will load it into the cargo hold of the plane.
Baggage Claim
Upon arrival at your destination, you will need to proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked baggage. It is important to note that you will not have access to your checked bag during the flight, so any essential items should be packed in your carry-on luggage.
Timing Considerations
It is recommended to arrive at the airport with enough time to allow for the checked baggage drop-off process. For European flights, the drop-off deadline is typically 40 minutes before departure, while for intercontinental flights, it is usually 60 minutes before departure. These timings may vary, so checking the specific guidelines provided by your airline or airport is advisable.
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Retrieving checked baggage
A checked bag is a piece of luggage that you hand over to an airline agent at the airport. It is stored in the cargo hold of the plane during the flight and is inaccessible to you during that time.
Checked bags are used for a variety of reasons. They might be too big to be carried on, or they might contain items not allowed in carry-on luggage. Examples of items that can be checked include ammunition, guns, alcohol, axes, baseball bats, and ski poles. Some items, such as fireworks, fuels, and hazardous materials, are not allowed on the plane at all.
Checked bags have maximum allowed weights and dimensions, which vary depending on the airline, route, and travel class. Typically, airlines allow checked bags that weigh up to 50 pounds and have combined length, width, and height dimensions of 62 inches or less. Overweight bags (up to 70 pounds) may be allowed for an additional fee.
When your flight lands, you will need to head to the baggage claim area to retrieve your checked baggage. It is recommended to arrive early at the airport to allow enough time for the screening process, as checked bags are screened and subject to being searched. Some items, such as liquids, may trigger additional screening.
Some airlines charge fees for checked bags, which can vary depending on the number of bags, their weight, and the travel destination. These fees are typically non-refundable and apply per person and each way. However, some airlines offer free checked bags for certain travel classes or allow you to pay a lower fee if you book your bags in advance.
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Frequently asked questions
A checked bag is a piece of luggage you hand over to an airline check-in agent at the airport. It is stored in the plane's cargo hold, which is inaccessible to passengers during the flight.
Checked bags can be larger than carry-on bags, but they also have maximum allowed weights and dimensions. Typically, airlines allow checked bags that weigh up to 50 pounds and have combined length, width, and height dimensions of 62 inches or less.
Items that are not allowed in carry-on bags, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces, ammunition, and certain tools, can be packed in checked bags. However, there are still restrictions on what can be packed in checked luggage, and items like lithium-ion batteries are prohibited.
Before going through security, you will need to go to the airline's check-in or baggage desk. Your bag will be weighed, and you may need to pay for any overweight or additional baggage. The agent will then tag your bag and provide you with a receipt.
Checking a bag can be more convenient, as you do not need to carry it through the airport and onto the plane. However, it may take longer to check in and collect your baggage, and there is a risk of it being lost or delayed. Checking a bag can also provide more flexibility in terms of the quantity and type of items you can pack.
