Gate Check
Category: travel
The process of tagging and stowing a carry-on bag in the cargo hold at the boarding gate.
On small regional jets, the overhead bins are too small for standard carry-ons. Agents will "gate check" these bags for free, ensuring they are available for pickup immediately outside the plane door upon landing.
Common Examples
- Because the flight was nearly full, the gate agent offered to gate check our bags to expedite the cabin boarding process.
- When you gate check a bag, make sure to remove your medication, electronics, and valuables before leaving it on the jet bridge.