How does gate check work?

How does gate check work? Gate checking is the process of checking your bag at the gate to be stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. This is different from regularly checking your bag, as the process is normally completed at a check-in desk/ticket counter pre-security, rather than at the departure gate before you board your flight.

What is the difference between gate check and baggage check?

Gate checking is the process of checking your bag at the gate to be stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. This is different from regularly checking your bag, as the process is normally completed at a check-in desk/ticket counter pre-security, rather than at the departure gate before you board your flight.

What happens to your carry-on when it is gate checked?

Usually, the bag doesn't have to be weighed and there's no need to drop it on a conveyor belt. It's just a case of a boarding gate staff member putting a tag in on your bag and giving it to a baggage handler to put in the cargo hold.

What happens if overhead bins are full?

If overhead bins are full, ask the crew for help finding space. The worst that happens is that your luggage is checked for the trip at no charge.

Do I need to print my boarding pass?

Depending on the requirements of airport authorities, you will need to present a mobile boarding pass, a paper boarding pass printed out by you or a paper boarding pass picked up from the check-in desk.

Do I need to print my boarding pass before I go to the airport?

Yes, simply show your mobile boarding pass on a mobile phone, iPad, or Apple Watch and a valid form of identification to the TSA Agent at security to proceed.

Is a backpack a personal item?

In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.

How long do you have to get to your gate at the airport?

For most airports, you must be checked in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time (airports requiring additional time are listed below, Go to footer note). Additionally, you're required to be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes before scheduled departure.