# Do you have to check in again for a connecting flight?

> On one booking you usually check in once and get all boarding passes; on separate tickets you must collect bags and check in again for each flight.

If all your flights are on one booking (one ticket or confirmation number), you normally check in once at the start and receive boarding passes for every leg, and your checked bags are tagged through to your final destination. If you booked the flights separately, you must check in again for the next flight, often after collecting and rechecking your bags.

## One booking (through ticket)

- Check in once, online or at the airport, for the whole trip.
- If the app only shows the first boarding pass, get the rest at a transfer desk or gate.
- Bags normally go straight through. Check that the bag tag shows your final airport code.
- If you miss the connection because of a delay, the airline is responsible for rebooking you.

## Separate bookings (self-transfer)

- Each airline treats you as a new passenger. Check in for each flight separately.
- You usually have to collect bags, exit, and check them again — then pass security again.
- If the first flight is late and you miss the second, the second airline doesn't owe you anything. Leave a long buffer.

## International exceptions

- **Entering the US.** On an international-to-domestic connection, you clear immigration and customs at your first US airport, collect your bags, recheck them and go through security again, even on one ticket.
- **Changing terminals or airports.** You may need to clear security again; some airports require a transit visa if you leave the airside zone.

## FAQ

**Is luggage automatically transferred on connecting flights?**
On a single booking it usually is. On separate tickets, or when entering the US on an international arrival, you normally collect and recheck it.

**Do I go through security again on a connection?**
Sometimes. It depends on the airport and whether you arrive on an international flight. Allow time for it.

**Is 1 hour enough for a connection?**
Often enough for a domestic connection in the same terminal on one ticket. International connections or terminal changes need more time.

**What happens if I miss a connection due to delay?**
On one ticket the airline will rebook you on the next available flight. On separate tickets you may have to buy a new ticket.

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https://inyourtravel.com/do-you-have-to-check-in-again-for-a-connecting-flight/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-10-30