Urgent help with backpack and airlines
 

Hello All,

We're leaving tomorrow to Europe for 3 weeks, we have a backpack each; we called American Airlines and asked if we can check the backpacks and they say NO, is that true??
Also we want to know if the train station storage is safe to leave our things there for a couple of hours,.

Please, share your comments (specially those how have traveled with backpacks)

Regards, AMCHO

What reason did AA give? Are the backpacks oversize or overweight? Sometimes this is allowed if you pay an extra fee, though IIRC there is a maximum that can'tbe exceeded even with fees.

Anonymous: AA said they can't check backpacks because they're fragile and could be damaged......

Can you put your backpack into a box and check the box?

Unpack the box when you get to your destination.

Hi AM,

>...if the train station storage is safe to leave our things there for a couple of hours...<

In general, Yes. Do you have a particular train station in mind?

Backpacks are specifically **permitted** according to AA's own web page on baggage allowances. See the bottom of the page, the listing under "sports items" of what's allowed under the regular baggage allowance!

https://www.aa.com/content/customerS...horEvent=false

Ira: maybe we have to storage our backpacks in Pisa and Germany (Colonia)...

Anonymous, thanks for the link, I just printed it....!!!!!!!!!
Now I'm sure that we have the right to check the backpack....

Consider getting a clear plastic bag for each backpack to help protect the strings and straps.

Some rail stations, usually the larger and busier ones, have both money-operated luggage lockers and attended "left-luggage" rooms; smaller stations may just have the lockers. Either way I would think you can store your things with confidence about safety.

Consider one of those plastic wrap services that the airports offer to ensure all straps are neatly stowed before presenting them at the baggage check-in: don't give them a reason to give you a hassle.

Another solution would be to buy a large duffel bag and check it with the backpack inside.

Of course you can check on your backpacks! If that is your only luggage, then that is what you are allowed to take. Not sure why AA said no. I bring a backpack, large bag and small suitcase each time I travel and have always put them through as check-on items.

Not sure which train stations you are specifically thinking of, most train stations have done away with the security storage areas due to bomb threats, terrorism, etc. In fact, 3 years ago they were closed down in nearly all the train stations we were in (France, Germany). Last month, I still found that to be the case, however, there may be a few places open. IMO, you should leave a backpack at your hotel and just take out 1 backpack daily with just that day's essentials so it won't be heavy to carry. Then you and your friend/partner can switch off with carrying duties.

Just secure the straps..the machines that push the bags around have big metal arms and they can spear soft sided luggage and catch the straps which will not be a good situation. Mine has a velcro flap that will allow you to tuck them in or all the ideas above are great like the box or outer bag....Dad has worked as a mechanic on these machines for 30 years with Delta, trust me I've heard the stories. :-)