LAX Bag Recheck?

Question

We have a 6 hour wait at LAX between our inbound international flight arrival and our US departure flight. I have read about a “Bag Recheck” option. I searched LAX maps and found a location on Level #1 in the international Terminal B. This is after customs/security.

The tickets are booked on separate airlines.

Since we have more than 2 hours to wait, will they hold the bags, and retag them and send on to our departing airlines (United), even if there is a 6-hour layover? Most airlines don't want you to check bags more than 2 hours before flight. We just don't want to drag luggage around while we are waiting for our flight.

Thanks.

Answer

At LAX, the “Bag Recheck” service is designed for passengers arriving on an international flight who need to transfer to a domestic flight, especially when connecting between terminals or airlines. However, there are some important details to be aware of, particularly when your tickets are on separate airlines and you have a long layover.

How Bag Recheck Works at LAX:

After you clear customs and immigration, you collect your checked baggage at the international terminal.
You then go to the Bag Recheck counter, typically located on Level 1 of the international terminal, as you noted.
The staff can accept your bags for transfer to a connecting domestic flight, re-tagging them as needed, so you don’t have to carry them through the airport.

Considerations for a 6-Hour Layover and Separate Airlines:

Most airlines prefer that bags be checked no more than 2–3 hours before departure. With a 6-hour gap, the recheck facility may be able to hold your bags temporarily, but policies vary by airline.
Because your flights are on separate airlines, the recheck counter might not be able to directly transfer the bags to United unless the other airline has interline baggage agreements. If there is no agreement, you may need to claim your bags and check them in again with United.
Holding the bags for several hours is generally possible, but it’s best to confirm with both airlines before relying on it. Some counters will not accept bags too far in advance.

Alternative Options:

Use LAX luggage storage services. Several private companies inside the airport offer short-term bag storage, so you can securely leave your luggage and explore or rest during your layover.
Carry-on only: If feasible, consider traveling with carry-on luggage to avoid the uncertainty of bag recheck rules for a long layover and separate airlines.
Check with United and your inbound airline before your trip. They can confirm whether interline transfer is possible and how early they can accept checked bags.

Summary:

The Bag Recheck service at LAX is intended for international-to-domestic connections and can hold your bags temporarily. However, with a 6-hour layover and tickets on separate airlines, you cannot guarantee they will accept and hold your bags for that long, or directly transfer them to United. Confirming with both airlines is essential. If there is any doubt, consider airport luggage storage or managing your own check-in with United to avoid stress during your layover.

LAX Bag Recheck?

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