My flight has multiple layovers - is it risky to check a bag?
I'm packing for a 10-day business trip (across the US) and I'm on the fence about if I want to check a bag or not. I thought I was being clever by saving money and choosing a flight with 2 layovers, but now I'm worried that if I check a bag, there's more of a chance it could get lost in the layover shuffle. What I mean is I'm essentially doubling the chances of something happening to the bag, right? Should I check the bag or suck it up and try to squish everything (and dump all the liquids I wanted to bring) into a carry on?
Best Answer
Indeed, there is a risk and it does double. The shorter the connection, the more risk the bag has to miss the connection. I've had this happen and they sent the bag on the next flight which can be a hassle if you are not close to the airport at your destination, although twice they courried the bag so that I did not have to return to the airport. It depends on the airline, I guess.
Using a carry-on is a safe bet for multiple reasons. As long as you can make it fit, go for that. It also helps because if you miss a connection, they do not usually let you access your bags. Sometimes this means you must stay overnight, so it is good to have your belongings.
Addendum:
It should be obvious but, as others have noted, you can always opt for both. The carry on is for what you depend on and the checked luggage is for extra comfort.
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Do I have to check my bag twice if I have a layover?
When you purchase a layover flight, you will need to claim your bags when you land at your layover destination, and recheck them the next day when you continue your flight(s).Do you need to pick up checked baggage between connecting flights?
If your bag is tagged to your next or final destination, you may need to pick up your bags and place them on the connection drop-off belt. If it is not tagged to your next or final destination, then you will definitely need to pick up your bags and check them in for your next flight.How does checked baggage work with layovers?
Normally, when layover flights are booked with the same airline, your baggage will be automatically transferred through to your final destination. However, if the two flights are with different airlines, you may have to claim and re-check your baggage during your layover.Will my bag get lost if I have a layover?
There is never any guarantee that bags will make a connection, but a longer layover does increase the chances. A 53-minute connection will work under normal circumstances, but your chances would be far better will an additional hour or so, especially if your first flight is slightly delayed.A Basic Guide to Layovers
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Answer 2
Adding two points to consider:
On some international segments passengers are required to manually re-check their luggage, which pretty much eliminates the possibility of bags getting left out. This probably does not apply OP flying all domestic segments.
Most low-cost-carriers treat each leg as a separate flight. So on an itinerary A-B-C-D, if your bag misses the B-C connection the airline will at most send it to A, your listed home address and not to where you are going.
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