Originally Posted by carlosdca

Gate checked bags get a red tag (or yellow if first available) by the GA as your BP gets scanned (usually). The tag has no destination or personal info in it, it is a generic tag. The tag has no other purpose than for the personnel to differentiate it from regular checked bags, I think. When you leave the plane, the bags are just left on a cart next to the jetway for you to pick up.

If you have a computer bag hanging from your shoulder, they usually won't make you gate check it. Be aware that the overhead bins are very small and an oversized computer bag may not fit. You would have to have the bag under the seat in front of you.