ATL recheck bag

Question

If I end up checking a bag I will have to claim it and recheck it. . How much time should I allow between g flights. 3 hours?

Will be on delta from Bhm and flying Lufthansa. In July.

I prefer not to drive

Hoping I’ll just have a carry on.

Answer

When connecting between Delta and Lufthansa at Atlanta (ATL), if you're checking a bag, you will typically need to claim your checked luggage, go through U.S. Customs (since your first flight is international), and recheck your bag for the connecting flight. Here are some important details:

1. Time Between Flights: A 3-hour layover is generally a safe amount of time for this process. This should give you enough time to:

Disembark your flight from Birmingham (BHM),
Claim your checked bag,
Clear Customs and Immigration,
Recheck your bag with Lufthansa (if required),
Go through security again,
And get to your departure gate for the Lufthansa flight.

However, delays can happen, so having 3 hours should give you a buffer to handle any unexpected issues like long lines at customs or security. In general, airlines recommend a minimum of 2-3 hours for international to domestic connections at ATL.

2. Carry-On Option: If you manage to travel with just a carry-on, this will simplify your connection process significantly. You would skip baggage claim and recheck, and head straight to your next flight, allowing for a faster transition through security. If you can fit everything into a carry-on, that’s your best bet for a smooth connection!

3. Other Considerations: Since you're flying in July, ATL can be quite busy, so always be mindful of the time and factor in extra time for potential delays. Checking with your airline before your flight for any specific instructions on transferring between Delta and Lufthansa can also be helpful.

Ultimately, a 3-hour layover should be sufficient, but if you are concerned about luggage and the airport process, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your flight status and any updates for changes. If you have the option to opt for a carry-on, that could make the process smoother.

ATL recheck bag

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