Checked Baggage: Not Just a Bigger Bag

Almosafer
Apr 17, 2025
4 min read

At its simplest, checked baggage is the luggage you hand over to the airline before your flight—the one that disappears onto a conveyor belt and (hopefully) reappears at baggage claim on the other side.

Unlike your carry-on, which stays with you in the cabin, checked baggage travels in the belly of the plane, out of sight, out of reach, and—occasionally—off on its own mysterious detour to another country.

Most people check a bag when they’re carrying more than what fits in the overhead bin.

How Airlines Treat Checked Bags

The way airlines handle checked baggage is part science, part chaos, and a little bit of roulette.

Weight & Size Rules

Most airlines allow 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag for economy class. Business or first class sometimes bumps that up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

Security Screening

After you check your bag, it goes through airport security screening, usually with X-ray machines or sniffer systems. Sometimes, they’ll open it up. You won’t know it happened until you see that little slip of paper saying, “This bag was inspected.”

Pro tip: Don’t lock your bag with non-TSA-approved locks.

Tags, Trackers & Hope

That barcode tag they slap on your bag? It’s more important than your boarding pass. It’s the only way to trace your bag if it ends up in Barcelona while you’re in Bali. Some airlines, like Delta, now use RFID tags and mobile tracking so you can follow your bag’s journey in real-time. It’s not foolproof, but it helps.

When Checked Baggage Goes Wrong

Lost Bags

Yes, it happens. Rarely, but when it does, it’s frustrating. Most airlines can track down a misplaced bag within 24–48 hours. But always pack essentials (meds, chargers, a change of clothes) in your carry-on just in case.

Damage or Delays

Cracked wheels, ripped handles, missing zippers—it’s all part of the baggage lottery. File a report before you leave the airport, or you may not get compensated.

What Does the "Almosafer" App Offer in Terms of Checked Baggage?

Being an Almosafer app user, there are some extremely helpful features which seek to make it easier to deal with checked baggage, make it more organised, and overall a great deal less stressful, particularly before your holiday gets underway

View Baggage Policies for Each Airline

You're able to instantly view your airline's baggage allowance and number of free checked bags included with the app, without having to dig around on different airlines' sites.

Add Checked Baggage During or After Booking

Add checked baggage during flight booking or afterwards**, thanks to the app, so you avoid getting charged extra at the airport and can pack with confidence.

Real-Time Alerts and Smart Reminders

If you’re logged in to the app, you’ll receive real-time notifications—including reminders before baggage drop counters close—so you’re never caught off guard.

Instant Customer Support

Should anything go wrong—whether your bag is delayed, lost, or damaged—you can contact the Almosafer support team directly through the app, without waiting in airport queues or hunting for contact numbers.

Exclusive Offers for Frequent Travellers

The Almosafer app typically has seasonal offers and promotions with reduced fees for extra baggage, especially for return customers or when booking via the app.

Briefly:

Almosafer app does more than hotel and flight bookings. It's become a smart, one-stop travel companion that helps you with all your trip needs, including checked bags.

Frequently Asked Questions About Checked Baggage

1. What is checked baggage?

Checked baggage is any type of bag you drop off at the airport check-in counter (bag drop) that's loaded in the cargo bay of the aircraft. It's usually larger than a carry-on bag and retrieved at baggage claim when you land.

2. How much do you pay to check a bag?

That depends on your airline, destination, and type of ticket. Some overseas flights include one or two bags checked for free. Always check the policy of your airline before flying.

3. What is the weight allowance for checked luggage?

The most common limit is 23 kg per bag for economy. Business and first-class sometimes have as much as 32 kg. Anything over those amounts can run you in excess baggage fees or must be repacked at the airport.

4. What items are not allowed in checked baggage?

Avoid packing:

Lithium batteries (power banks, some electronics)
E-cigarettes or vapes
Flammable items like lighters or aerosols
Perishables or valuables (passport, cash, jewellery)
Always check your airline's restricted items list to be safe.

5. What happens if my checked luggage gets lost or delayed?

Notify the baggage counter of the airline as soon as you can before you depart from the airport. Most lost bags are recovered within 24–48 hours. You may be eligible for compensation or a refund for travel essentials, depending on the airline's policy.

6. Can I precheck a bag online?

Not exactly. You can pay for your checked bag when you do online check-in, but you will still need to drop it off at a designated counter or a self-service bag drop at the airport.

7. How early should I arrive if I have checked baggage?

Plan your arrival 2–3 hours before local flights, and 3–4 hours in advance for overseas flights—if you have a bag. Baggage counters typically shut down 45–60 minutes before a flight.

Plan Your Trip Seamlessly with the Almosafer App. Download it now. Available on Google Play & App Store