Could you theoretically gate check a large suitcase instead of checking it normally?
Some US airlines will gate check carry-on luggage, either when they run out of overhead compartment space or when some bags are too large. In theory, would it be possible to bring a large suitcase (one that a sane person would check) to the gate, then have it gate checked there for free?
Best Answer
Bags which exceed the allowed size (or number, or weight) for carry-on are not gate-checked for free. You are charged a fee for this, which is usually more expensive than if you had paid for it in advance.
Items which are gate-checked for free are those within the allowance which won’t fit in the cabin due to lack of space or because the aircraft has smaller than usual overhead bins.
In addition, past a certain size, larger items won’t be able to go through security as they don’t fit in the scanners, so you wouldn’t even reach the gate.
There are a few exceptions for some specific items (especially larger musical instruments), but those are quite limited and often have specific rules (like booking an extra seat for your cello for instance). They vary from airline to airline.
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What if my checked luggage is oversized?
Can You Bring Oversized or Overweight Checked Luggage? If checked luggage is over 62 linear inches or over 70 pounds, most airlines will let you bring it anyway. However, you'll have to pay the oversized or overweight luggage fees, which can get fairly expensive.Do they actually check your checked bag?
The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search. Inspection Notices: TSA may inspect your checked baggage during the screening process. If your property is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag.What is the largest suitcase allowed to check-in?
Most domestic airlines publish checked baggage size limits as a single dimension: 62 linear inches total. International airlines vary slightly, but the 62-inch rule is the most common standard worldwide. Bags larger than 62 linear inches can still fly, but they may be subject to additional fees.How does gate checked baggage work?
Gate-checking means that the bag is taken from you, tagged and given to baggage handlers, who transfer it to the belly of the plane. You get the bag back when you land.Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
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