Early AM ORD Flight-Can you check your luggage night before?

[digiMom]

Hi,

Can't find the answer to this one.

We leave out of O'Hare on a 6am flight. We're driving down from Milwaukee area night before and staying at a local hotel (Park, Sleep, Fly package). I'm going to get our Boarding passes on line in advance.

I had the thought that if we stopped at O'Hare the night before and checked in our luggage, we would only have to deal with our carry-ons the next morning.

Now, I don't know if I really want to do this, but I'm wondering if it's a possiblity. My initial thoughts are that it violates some security something-or-other. And if it doesn't, I'm also thinking it might increase the chances of the luggage getting lost. However, if it would work, it sure would make things easier in the morning with two young kids in tow.

Anyway, I've found info on how close to the flight your luggage must be checked in by. Does anyone know how far in advance you can check your luggage?

(If this is a dumb question, I appologize. I haven't flown anywhere in over 13 years )

Thanks for your help...

 

[NotUrsula]

It depends on the airline, but most of them limit you to 3-4 hours in advance.
AA's website states that luggage will only be accepted on the day of departure. Call your airline to be sure, but you most probably would not be allowed to do it.

 

[digiMom]

It would be for United (Ted)...

 

[digiMom]

I just called United's customer service #. We can check in baggage up to 4 hours before the flight.