Hi! I'm a visitor from the Europe forum, just wondering if I fly from DC (Reagan National) to Newark and on to Rome, can I check my bag in DC all the way through, or do I have to re-check it when I board the international flight in Newark? Of course I could call Continental and ask, but I thought maybe you would happen to know. Thanks!

Your bags will be checked all the way through...

Have a wonderful trip!

If it is all Continental (and I suspect it is) then your bags will be checked all the way through and it should be seamless.

If you connect through Newark on your return, however, you will need to collect your luggage, clear customs, and re-check.

The rechecking process upon return is actually quite simple. Your bags will be tagged all the way from Rome to DCA. You'll pick them up in Newark, pass through customs, then simply drop them off at the CO desk right outside customs.

QED

Thanks all! It's great to have advice from firsthand experience!

<i>The rechecking process upon return is actually quite simple.</i>

But remember that simple does not mean quick. I have waited 45 minutes between leaving the plane and getting my bags at EWR before.