Novice Flyer - multiple connections!
 

Hey all,

I am a novice flyer and I had a quick question for ya'll. I will be flying from BWI -> ORD -> LAX aboard United Airlines then from LAX -> AKL -> Noumea, New Caledonia aboard Air New Zealand.

I have never had to connect to a different flight before much less a different airline. Where would I check in for each flight i.e. baggage check counter, terminal? Would I have to go back through security each time?

I have an itinerary from a travel company with each of the confirmations and such, I'm just not entirely sure how to claim my ticket for each flight.

Thanks in advance!

Welcome to FlyerTalk!

Assuming that this is just one PNR (Ticket) to start with, you may get your luggage checked through to your final destination and boarding passes for all segments. United and Air New Zealand are part of the Star Alliance so it should smooth things over.
The worst I could see happening is picking up your luggage at LAX Baggage Claim and going over the Air New Zealand and getting your luggage checked and boarding Passes for the remaining segments. BWI's United gate agent will tell you if you need to do this.