The frustration of travel often begins before you even reach security. Lugging checked bags through crowded terminals, especially during peak seasons, can steal precious minutes – and your patience. But a growing number of airports are offering a solution: remote bag check services, designed to streamline the start of your journey.
Imagine bypassing the long lines at the ticket counter altogether. Several airports now allow passengers to drop off their luggage at locations like rental car centers and parking garages, freeing them to head straight for security and enjoy a less stressful airport experience. This convenience is becoming increasingly popular as travel volumes surge.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) recently joined this trend, launching its “Early Bag Check” service. Operated by Bags, the same company providing this amenity at other locations, the service allows travelers to check bags at the Rental Car Center or East Economy Parking lot. From there, a quick ride on the PHX Sky Train delivers you directly to your gate.
While the remote check-in itself is free, standard airline baggage fees still apply. Currently, the service is available to passengers flying Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines. Each passenger is limited to checking a maximum of two bags through this method.
Timing is key. Bags must be checked in between 90 minutes and four hours before your scheduled departure, adhering to each airline’s specific policies. The remote check-in counters are open daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., even on holidays, offering a significant window of convenience.
Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) offers a similar service through its LAS Curbside Concierge, located at the Rent-A-Car Center and the Terminal 3 departures curb. Charleston International Airport (CHS) provides a free “Check ‘N Go” option in its daily parking garage and Rental Car Center.
New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) features “Check ‘N Fly” at the Park MSY Express economy garage. Orlando International Airport (MCO) takes it a step further, allowing guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and flying Southwest to check bags directly from their hotels.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) provides remote bag check in the long-term parking garage, before the AirTrain station, and at the Rental Car Center. Tampa International Airport (TPA) also offers a convenient drop-off point at its Rental Car Center.
For cruise passengers, the convenience extends to select ports. Many airlines offer remote bag check opportunities when arriving at ports serving Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Miami (MIA), and Seattle (SEA), simplifying the transition from ship to airport.
Beyond these dedicated services, remember that curbside bag check – where available – and concierge services like Clear can also help you bypass the ticket lobby lines. Checking with your specific airport for participating airlines, locations, and hours of operation is always recommended, as details can change.
