While it is true that most flights with several legs, regardless of involving a single or multiple airlines, have baggage-handling agreements, this is not always the case. For instance, you may be required to check out your bag at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) upon your arrival that evening. Then your next flight, which is technically scheduled the next day, cannot be checked-in to the next airline until the date of flight is the same and the airline company already opens for check-in that next day. Take note that this varies from airline to airline, so it’s always best to confirm this matter before your flight. This way, you can plan accordingly.
There shouldn’t be a problem if you’re checking in a hotel before your long layover. But if this is not an option for you, what can you do to avoid the hassle of bringing your heavy luggage with you, while you wait for your next flight?
Luggage Storage Services
Unfortunately, there are no luggage lockers or storage facilities available at LAX. Clearly, only off-site luggage storage services are available for you. There are some 24-hour luggage storage facilities that offer pickup service from the LAX curbside, then once you need your luggage back, you just simply call the company for delivery at the terminal where you’re flying. Providing a pre-determined schedule for luggage delivery is also possible.
Considering the possibly chaotic events that many travelers may encounter during their stay at the airport, these companies already streamlined the process to make things more convenient for customers. Usually, they accept storage services without reservations. You can either call upon arrival or stop by the facility as a walk-in client.
The daily rates are amenable for a few days of storage. However, if you need storage for a week or more, you may find better options with promotional deals in regular storage companies around Los Angeles. But bear in mind that such options usually require at least a month worth of storage fee.
Car Rental
Car rental is an ideal way to get a glimpse of the city for a few hours, which can cost at least half a day of rental fee, while also giving you enough space to put your luggage.
Just like in other airports, getting a car rental is best done in advance by phone or online, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season. In such cases, walk-in rentals may lead you to more expensive vehicle options, or worst, you may not be accommodated at all.
When driving around Los Angeles, make sure your travel documents are complete and be ready to undergo rigid security check all over again upon your return to the airport.
Other Options
If you prefer not to leave the airport premises, you don’t have much option on where to store your luggage. An airport lounge may provide you a bit of convenience, but all lounges close some time during the evening. For those familiar with the decently rated reLAX Lounge at the Tom Bradley International Terminal, it has been permanently closed since November 2013.
Chances are, you keep all your stuff with you wherever you go, unless you get to convince an establishment to keep it for you for a few hours — which is highly unlikely for security reasons. But at times, this is actually more possible when you go out, commute, and find a hotel in a nearby tourist destination. You may be able to tip the hotel employee for a few hours of keeping your luggage. But of course, since you aren’t checked in, this is a pretty risky endeavor on your part. Same thing goes if you entrust your luggage to any other establishment around.