Flying to America with a stop

[friedgreentomato]

Hi all,

Was wondering if some kind person can help me out - when we fly to the states we normally fly direct but we got a real bargain if we had a change in Chicago!!

So what is the protocol? When do we do immigration? Do we need to collect our bags or do they transfer them for us? If we buy duty free at the UK based airport will that be OK for the change over in the states?

Thanks for your help

FGT

[dzug2]

You go through US immigration on arrival in Chicago. You then collect your bags, and take them through customs. Just outside customs there is normally a conveyor belt where you can recheck them. Very quick - they will be already tagged through.

On the return trip your bags will get transferred for you - no need to collect them until you arrive home.

Not 100% sure but I doubt if you can take duty free onto the second plane - unless you repack it in your checked luggage

[Hymie]

Dzug2 is correct in that you will clear immigration at Chicago – you will have to repack any duty free liquids (over 100ml) purchased in the UK, in your rechecked bags at Chicago.

You should allow at least two hours at Chicago to clear immigration/customs and transfer to your onward flight (to allow for delays).

Last time I transited the airport, I made the connecting flight, but my bags didn’t.
As long as you have a through ticket (to your final destination), even if you miss the connecting flight – it is the airline’s responsibility to get you to your destination (including the cost of hotels/incidentals, as necessary).

[spudqueen]

When you fly to the States you normally fly direct, but you are thinking of a change in Chicago? Where on earth do you think Chicago is? It is in the United States of America!! lol

[bednobs]

they probably mean flying direct to their ultimate destination (eg florida) but instead having to have a stop in chicago

[friedgreentomato]

spudqueen thanks for your useless input - bednobs you are correct apologies if my question was not worded correctly!!

Thanks for you help all

[spudqueen]

I was only having a chuckle, sorry if I upset you :(

[excelsior-1]

never been to america.

love to go.

take me with you?