Can I dispatch luggage during a connection?

I'll be travelling from Cancun with a connection in Atlanta, endpoint is Brazil. I'm allowed to dispatch 2 x 32kg luggage, and my connection in Atlanta will last more or less 10 hours.

I couldn't find any information on the company's site (Delta Airlines).

My question is: can I check one bag (Cancun -> Brazil) and then check another one in Atlanta (Atlanta -> Brazil) ?

Best Answer

Because you have to claim and recheck bags when transiting through the USA, you could add your second checked bag at that point. Delta has a baggage counter after you clear immigration and customs in Atlanta. Just tell them you are tired of carrying your "carry on" bag and want to check it through.

Likewise if you are planning on picking up more stuff in Atlanta, you can likely check the bag at the check in counters as well. As long as you are not exceeding your baggage allowance, you should be OK. It is not really any different than gate checking an oversized carry-on bag.

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Is luggage transferred on connecting flights?

When you purchase a connecting flight, checked baggage is usually forwarded to your final destination, and will change planes when you do. The agent at check-in will usually ask if you want your luggage checked through to your last stop.

How do I manage my luggage on a connecting flight?

For international connecting flights, check-in baggage will be made available to the passenger at the final destination.

Passengers do not require to report at the connecting airport, boarding pass will be issued at the origin airport till final destination.

Can I get my luggage during transit?

That depends. If you booked the flights together at the same time, luggage will usually be "checked through" to your final destination. If you booked them separately, especially if it's different airlines, you'll probably have to pick up your luggage and check it in again.

What happens to luggage during layover?

For domestic layovers, your checked luggage will be tagged to your final destination, so there's nothing for you to do while on your layover. Your bags will get taken off the first flight and loaded onto the second flight.

Connecting Flights Explained - Backpacking For Beginners Ep. 5

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