SharonLPK

Thanks so much for that information! This is a silly question no doubt, but all airlines share the same baggage area? And, would it make any sense to let her airline know in advance that it will be a while before she gets the baggage?

Years ago friends of mine had things stolen out of their luggage there. I went ahead and bought the TSA approved locks, just due to her luggage sitting a while... not sure it will help deter anything else... but glad to read about your 'just tags' experience, guess I should suggest she pack a couple extra!

Frapo

[QUOTE=SharonLPK;8146438]Thanks so much for that information! This is a silly question no doubt, but all airlines share the same baggage area? And, would it make any sense to let her airline know in advance that it will be a while before she gets the baggage?

AA has one baggage area, while all the other airlines share the second one. They are not connected, and the exits are at either ends of the airport. So if she waits for her friend, make sure she doesn't walk downstairs outside of the AA gates, as they are sterile areas.

As for the bags, they usually just set them off to one side under supervision.

Good Luck.

SharonLPK

Well, that makes me a bit nervous... but I'm glad for the information!

How would you suggest she do this then? Wait for her friends at the AA gate, then while they go to their baggage claim, she walks back to Terminal B's baggage area, and have the friends get the taxi at their exit and pick her up at her exit?

Thanks for more help, if I was there too it wouldn't matter, we'd just figure everything out at the time

ohioflyer

I predict a lack of enthusiasm from the taxi personnel for this plan.
Better to have your whole party together, and then get a cab.

SharonLPK

I understand... I'm just not sure how to most easily make that happen, don't think there is any central area for them to meet after getting all their luggage? I had originally thought she could get her luggage, rent a cart [ha, she would most definitely need the cart], and then meet them at their gate -- and then remembered security issues. She is the last-minute add-on to the group, and we had to make the NW reservation at half the price of American!

ohioflyer

Well, all of the unmistakable no-mistake-about-it meeting places are back upstairs in the checkin area. There are fast food places and a few chairs in the area before security, making it a more comfortable place to wait than hanging out with the taxi dispatchers. So everyone could collect their luggage and proceed upstairs (follow the signs or get directions to the Best Western, which is inside the airport at the entrance to AA checkin). Everyone would have to get back downstairs again to get a cab (people staying at the hotel do this all of the time, so it's no big deal). Not the simplest solution, and someone else might have a better idea, but it's straightforward in having completely definable landmarks (such as the Best Western or airport check-in desks) rather than features that repeat themselves in the labyrinth downstairs.

SharonLPK

That sounds like a good plan, I really appreciate your suggestion(s)!!

Do you know if there are alot of baggage carts for rent, and can they be used in the scenario you have suggested?

ohioflyer

I know that SJU has baggage carts inside the customs/immigration hall but I don't remember ever seeing them by the carrousels where luggage from stateside comes out. They may or may not be there--hope someone else can help us with this--I've just never needed them, or noticed them. There are elevators (and a luggage escalator) between the different levels, so it really shouldn't be too difficult.

IADCAflyer

Not to revive, a zombie thread, but the fam is heading down to SJU for spring break. Our return is 6:45 AM on CO. I'd imagine that is too early for the cruise ship influx, but I'd like to gauge a proper airport arrival time. BTW, I'm Star Gold so if that helps speed the airport screening side of the equation...

Seat13F_AC_CRJ

*G is the golden ticket to a short queue. Don't forget to have all your bags x-rayed before check-in. One hour should be enough. Add 15 mins if you are a nervous traveler.
--
13F

CherylD

Reviving thread again as it has been a few years. DD is flying back from Spring Break on a Sunday in March departing SJU at 11:25 am. What time is safe for her to arrive at the airport? She will not be checking bags.
Thank you!

GaryD

To U.S., right? If so, depends on the airline; if AA there are kiosks, but security lines may be backed up. I would say, 60 minutes would be safe.

I just came through last Friday evening, security then was very quick.

CherylD

Thanks Gary - yes to the U.S. via AA.