Passenger Guide
How Checked Baggage Works
From the drop-off belt to the reclaim carousel
Checked baggage is a logistics system with a small number of rules that are enforced consistently. Almost every problem at bag drop comes from weight, from prohibited items or from arriving after the cut-off.
This guide follows a bag through the whole journey so you know what happens after it disappears behind the curtain.
Allowances, weight and fees
| Fare type | Typical checked allowance |
|---|---|
| Basic or hand-baggage-only | None, paid separately |
| Standard economy, short haul | One bag up to 20 to 23 kg |
| Standard economy, long haul | One or two bags up to 23 kg each |
| Premium and business | Two bags, often up to 32 kg each |
Paying online is nearly always cheaper than paying at the airport. Excess weight charges at the desk are deliberately expensive.
Bag drop and tagging
- The printed tag carries your flight, destination and a unique number.
- The stub you keep is the proof of carriage. Photograph it as a backup.
- Remove old tags. Scanners and handlers read whatever is attached.
- Self-service drop is usually faster, but weight limits are enforced by the machine.
What cannot go in the hold
- Spare lithium batteries and power banks must travel in the cabin.
- Aerosols beyond small toiletry quantities are restricted.
- Flammable liquids, camping gas and most lighters are prohibited.
- Valuables, medication and travel documents should never be checked.
Transfers between flights
On a single ticket the airline transfers bags for you. On separate tickets you reclaim and re-check. Some countries require you to reclaim bags on first entry regardless of the ticket, which is a common surprise for passengers connecting through them.
Reclaim and damage
- Check the belt number on the arrivals screen; it changes without announcement.
- Inspect the bag before leaving the hall. Damage claims are much harder afterwards.
- Report damage or loss at the baggage service desk before you exit.
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a checked bag weigh?
- Commonly 23 kg on international economy fares, with 32 kg often the absolute handling limit per piece.
- Can I put a power bank in checked baggage?
- No. Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin.
- Do I collect my bag on a connection?
- Not usually on a single ticket. On separate tickets, or where a country requires reclaim on first entry, yes.
- When does bag drop close?
- Typically 45 to 60 minutes before departure, and up to 90 minutes on some long-haul flights.
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