Do you collect baggage on connecting flights?

Navigating Baggage Handling on Connecting Flights

When booking connecting flights, managing baggage can be a crucial aspect to consider. The process of handling your luggage during a connection depends on several factors, primarily the airlines involved and the nature of your ticket.

Same Airline or Codeshare Flights

In general, if your connecting flights are operated by the same airline or are part of a codeshare agreement, your luggage will typically transfer seamlessly from one flight to the next. This is because the airlines have a partnership that allows them to handle baggage seamlessly. You will not need to collect and re-check your bags at the connecting airport.

Different Airlines

However, if your connecting flights are operated by different airlines, the baggage handling process may require you to collect and re-check your bags at the transfer point. This is because the airlines have separate baggage systems and do not have a partnership to handle baggage transfers.

Same Ticket or Separate Tickets

The type of ticket you have can also impact baggage handling. If you have a single ticket that covers both flights, your luggage should be checked through to your final destination. In this case, you will not need to collect and re-check your bags at the transfer point, even if the airlines are different.

On the other hand, if you have separate tickets for each flight, you may need to claim and re-check your bags at the connecting airport, regardless of the airlines involved.

Checking Baggage at the Transfer Point

If you need to collect and re-check your baggage at the transfer point, be sure to allow ample time at the airport. You will need to go through customs and immigration (if necessary) and then locate the baggage claim area. Once you have your bags, proceed to the check-in counter of your connecting flight to re-check them.

Additional Considerations

• Transit Time: The time between your connecting flights can affect baggage handling. If you have a short transit time, it may not be possible to collect and re-check your bags. In this case, you may need to make arrangements with the airlines to have your bags transferred directly from one flight to the next.
• Checked Baggage Fees: Some airlines may charge fees for checked baggage, including bags that you need to collect and re-check at the connecting airport. It is important to be aware of these fees before booking your flights.
• Lost Baggage: If your bags are lost or delayed during the transfer process, be sure to report it to the airline as soon as possible.