Hey guys, I had an interesting thought. So let's say I am flying from JFK to AMS to somewhere else. I know Delta has these types of flights as well.

Well, if I have an 18+ hour layover in AMS, that would be awesome because I'm practically traveling to another city for free or at a very, very cost. If I have a layover for that long, what happens to my checked-in luggage? Does it get stored somewhere in the airport until the next day for my final segment or do I just pick it up from the carousel?

Or should I just be smart and pack a few clothes and toiletries in my carry-on?

Anyone ever do this?

I've done something like this in the opposite direction. Anything under 24 hours on international is a connection, not a stopover or layover, and does not cost extra.

It's essentially your choice at check in whether you want to retrieve the bag in AMS or check it through. It can be convenient to take the train in to the center without luggage other than your carryon, but it can require a bit of planning. Be sure that the agent tags it properly for what you want. If there's reisitance, point out that your have 18 hours in AMS (overnight) on the same ticket. Many agents will just check the bag without looking at the ticket carefully or asking you. (There are airports where I'm not sure I'd want to leave a bag overnight, but AMS isn't one of them.)

Your bag will be checked to its final destination and you won't retrieve it in AMS unless you do this: When you check-in, ask the agent to tag your bag to AMS only. They can do this easily. You'll then pick up your bag in AMS and go through customs and can use your ticket as if you booked the free stopover in AMS on purpose

If you don't ask them to check your bag only to AMS then it will be stored at AMS airport until your flight leaves in 18 hours. You won't have access to your bag and you won't be able to request it from anyone at Schiphol airport either.

-RM