Can you store luggage at union station chicago

Amtrak at the downtown rail terminal provides checked‑baggage service for ticketed long‑haul travelers. Typical acceptance begins about 60–90 minutes before departure; common piece limits are roughly 50 lb and 75 linear inches per item, though exact weight, dimension and fee rules vary by route. Confirm eligibility and current limits on Amtrak’s official site or by calling the terminal desk before arrival.

App‑based short‑term bag‑hold operators maintain vetted drop‑off locations (cafés, shops, hotels) within a 0.2–0.6 mile radius of the terminal – approximately a 4–12 minute walk. Typical pricing: $1–3 per hour or $6–20 per day per item; many providers include basic insurance (commonly around $500–$1,000) and allow online reservation and contactless drop‑off. Verify opening hours and pick‑up deadlines when booking.

Hotel concierge often accepts belongings at no charge for registered guests and for a small fee for walk‑ins; this option frequently offers the most convenient hours for early arrivals or late departures. For arrivals without an overnight booking, compare cumulative daily rates from commercial holders versus hourly options to select the most economical solution.

Operate with these practical steps: carry government ID and the booking/receipt, photograph contents of each checked item, keep valuables and electronics on the person, confirm insurance limits and liability terms in writing, and allow extra time for drop‑off or pickup during peak travel periods and holidays.

Short-term bag holding options at the downtown rail terminal

Prefer Amtrak checked-bag service when holding items tied to a train itinerary; availability limited to trains that accept checked baggage and requires advance check-in at the baggage desk.

The Amtrak baggage counter sits on the main concourse near the ticket windows and platforms; present a photo ID and the travel reservation. Typical check-in window ranges from 60 to 45 minutes before departure; retrieval requires the same ID used at drop-off. Fees and permitted dimensions depend on the route–confirm with the carrier before arrival.

No public, coin-operated lockers exist inside the main terminal as of mid-2024; plan alternative arrangements if short-term, unattended storage is needed.

Third-party bag-storage networks operate within a short walk of the terminal: book online, drop items at a partner shop or hotel, show booking confirmation plus photo ID. Typical pricing runs about $5–12 per item per 24-hour period; some locations add holiday or weekend surcharges and limit drop-off/pickup hours.

Hotel concierges accept parcels for registered guests and sometimes for non-guests for a fee; acceptance policies, liability limits and hours vary by property–call ahead to confirm.

Security checklist: leave valuables with the traveller, photograph contents and exterior before handing over, attach a contact tag, keep booking/receipt until retrieval, and insist on an itemized receipt from the holding provider.

Official baggage handling and left-item counter at the main downtown rail terminal

No permanent left‑items desk operates inside the main downtown rail terminal; ticketed checked‑baggage service is available from the national rail carrier for eligible long‑distance and select corridor departures.

Checked items are accepted at the carrier’s baggage counter on the concourse prior to departure–eligibility, size/weight limits and applicable fees are determined by the carrier and published on its website. Bring valid ID and the travel reservation when presenting items for check‑in.

Short‑term drop options immediately outside the terminal are provided by third‑party networks (examples: Bounce, LuggageHero, Vertoe). These commercial vendors typically require online booking, display per‑item daily rates (commonly around $5–$12), and publish insurance/hold limits and opening hours on their portals.

Nearby hotels will hold bags for registered guests at bell desks; policies and any storage charges vary by property. Non‑guests should confirm acceptance rules before relying on a hotel for temporary holding.

Security rules: do not hand over hazardous materials, perishable goods or high‑value items. Photograph contents, label items, keep the receipt provided by the counter or third‑party app, and note any collection deadlines; unclaimed property may be transferred to the carrier’s lost‑and‑found or disposed according to local procedure.

For checked‑baggage questions, lost‑and‑found inquiries or to confirm on‑site services, contact the rail carrier’s baggage office or the terminal information desk via the carrier’s official channels before arrival.

Amtrak baggage policies at the downtown Amtrak terminal: size, fees, and check-in rules

Passengers should present checked baggage at the ticket counter no later than 45 minutes before scheduled departure; long-distance routes commonly require check-in 60 minutes prior.

• Carry-on allowance – Two carry-on items plus one personal item per ticketed traveler. Each carry-on must fit in the overhead rack or under the seat; commonly accepted maximum external dimensions are about 28 × 22 × 14 inches. Personal item examples: laptop bag, small tote, or compact daypack.

• Checked-item limits – Availability varies by route and fare class. When checked handling is offered: typical allowance is up to two pieces per passenger, with a per-piece weight limit near 50 lb (23 kg) and a combined linear dimension limit around 75 inches (length + width + height). Oversize or overweight pieces face additional handling fees or may be refused.

• Fees and exemptions – Fees depend on route and fare; many long-distance fares include one or two checked pieces, while corridor services may charge per piece. Typical out-of-pocket checked-bag fees fall roughly in the $10–$30 range where applicable; special surcharges apply for oversize, overweight, priority handling, or expedited drop-off. Military and certain fare types can receive exemptions – present ID at check-in.

• Check-in procedure – Present valid photo ID and ticket at the baggage desk; attendants attach tags and issue claim checks that must be retained for pickup. Counters generally open up to 90 minutes before peak departures and close 30–60 minutes before train time; late-arriving checked items may be denied.

• Prohibited and restricted items – Hazardous materials, improperly packed lithium batteries, live animals (except service animals), and certain perishables are restricted. Firearms and valuables require declaration and special handling; declare fragile or high-value items at check-in.

• Special equipment and oversize gear – Bicycles typically require advance reservation and either boxing or payment for bike service. Skis, surfboards, large musical instruments, and sporting equipment may count as checked pieces or require freight arrangements; book these options before arrival.

• Claims and missing-item protocol – Report missing or damaged checked items to the baggage office before leaving the terminal when feasible; file a written claim within the carrier’s stated timeframe and keep receipts for emergency purchases. Claim-check stubs and photo ID are required for retrieval.

• Practical tips

  1. Label contents inside and outside each bag with name, phone, and reservation number.

  2. Keep medications, travel documents, electronics, and valuables in carry-on items.

  3. Use a compact, durable daypack such as a best leather backpack for travel for on-board essentials.

  4. Allow extra time during holidays and peak travel; if there is spare time before departure, consider local attractions or short transfers – for aquarium enthusiasts see the best aquarium in louisiana.

Short-term lockers and commuter storage near the downtown rail terminal

Recommendation: Reserve a third-party short-term drop-off (Bounce, Vertoe, LuggageHero, Stasher) within easy walking distance of the downtown rail terminal; expected fees range $6–15 per day or $5–8 per hour, book online to lock in space and declared-insurance coverage.

Where to find reliable options

Third-party networks operate satellite locations in the Financial District/West Loop corridor within roughly 0.1–0.6 miles of the main terminal; hosts include independent luggage shops, retail storefronts and boutique hotels offering bell-desk holds. Hotel bell-desks typically accept items for $10–30/day and often require an ID; confirm acceptance before arriving. Some coworking spaces and bike-storage vendors provide locker rentals or temporary holds–search for “drop-off” providers and filter by distance from the terminal address.

Pricing, locker sizes and practical tips

Typical size tiers: small (approx. 13×17×24 in) for backpacks and small suitcases, medium (approx. 18×24×30 in) for carry-ons, large (up to 32×20×14–28 in) for checked-size bags. Weight limits commonly 40–50 lb per item. Pricing examples observed across providers: hourly $5–8, daily $6–15, multi-day or monthly commuter packages from $40–120. Most hosts accept card payments, require a photo ID at drop-off, and offer optional declared-value protection (up to ~$2,500–3,000 depending on provider).

Operational tips: reserve at least 24–72 hours ahead for peak travel times; verify host hours (some are 24/7, many close evenings); get a digital receipt and pickup code; photograph contents and tag items on arrival; avoid leaving irreplaceable valuables. If arrival time is outside host hours, choose a provider advertising 24-hour access or use a hotel bell-desk with explicit after-hours policy.

Additional commuter convenience: for shaded outdoor waiting areas or staffed plazas near transit access points, consider portable shade/table solutions such as best watwr tables with umbrellas.

Nearby third-party bag-drop services: locations, pricing, and hours

Recommendation: Reserve a host via Stasher or Bounce within a 10‑minute walk of 225 S Canal St for the widest selection of drop-off points, insurance options, and predictable host hours.

• Stasher

  • How it works: app/website booking; items left at partner hotels and shops.
  • Typical locations: multiple hosts along W Adams, S LaSalle and Wacker Drive – most within 5–12 minutes on foot from 225 S Canal St.
  • Typical price (approx.): $6–12 per item per day; some hosts offer hourly pricing (~$1–2/hr) with daily caps.
  • Hours: host-dependent; most accept drops 09:00–19:00. Some hotel partners offer extended or 24/7 access.
  • Insurance: commonly up to $2,500–3,000 per item; details shown at booking.

• Bounce

  • How it works: app-based marketplace that lists nearby shops and hotels as drop points.
  • Typical locations: hosts concentrated near the main terminal area (Adams/Canal, Wacker/Adams corridors).
  • Typical price (approx.): $5–10 per item per day; some hourly options available; free cancellation up to the listed cutoff.
  • Hours: host business hours, commonly 08:00–20:00; select hosts run later or offer 24/7 kiosk access.
  • Insurance and extras: many listings include limited insurance and photo-confirmation at drop-off.

• Vertoe

  • How it works: book online and drop at partner locations (retailers, hotels, coworking spaces).
  • Typical locations: hosts along S Canal, LaSalle and near Millennium Park entrances – walking distance from the main terminal.
  • Typical price (approx.): $6–15 per item per day; hourly pricing may apply in some spots (~$2/hr).
  • Hours: mostly host-dependent 07:00–21:00; check listing for exact drop/pick windows.
  • Insurance: some plans include coverage up to $3,000; verify per-booking limits.

• LuggageHero

  • How it works: hourly billing option plus daily caps, partner locations shown on map.
  • Typical locations: cafes, boutique shops and hotels in the Loop and River West corridors, 5–15 minutes on foot from 225 S Canal St.
  • Typical price (approx.): ~$1 per hour with a daily cap of $6–10; weekly discounts sometimes available.
  • Hours: most hosts operate 08:00–20:00; some hotel partners offer extended access.
  • Insurance: small-claims protection included; larger coverage available at booking.

• BAGBNB / local bag-drop networks

  • How it works: network of independent shops and hotels listed by app/website.
  • Typical locations: concentrated in downtown grid – near major office blocks and transit corridors.
  • Typical price (approx.): $5–12 per day; occasional hourly options or weekend rates.
  • Hours: usually aligned with host business hours (09:00–18:00); confirm before booking if late pick-up anticipated.

Unattended locker kiosks: a few automated locker banks exist in central business zones and at some commercial hubs; expect flat fees of $6–15 per day and true 24/7 access. Availability is limited during peak travel periods; check live maps in locker-provider apps.

• Booking tip: select a host that lists exact opening hours and photo of drop point; reserve same-day when events or conventions drive demand.
• Size & limits: most hosts accept standard checked suitcases, but oversized items or sports equipment may be refused – confirm capacity before arrival.
• ID & procedures: hosts typically require an ID and a booking confirmation code; some ask for a signed receipt at drop-off.
• Insurance & claims: confirm coverage limit and claim window on the booking page; keep drop-off photos and receipts until retrieval.
• Pricing traps: hourly rates can exceed daily caps after several hours; calculate total expected time before choosing hourly vs daily pricing.

For immediate availability, filter apps for “nearest host” and sort by distance from 225 S Canal St; for late-night arrivals, select listings marked 24/7 or hotel partners with round-the-clock front desk service.

How to book, pay, and what ID is required for baggage drop-off

Book online at least 24 hours before the planned drop-off, pay by card or mobile wallet, and present a government-issued photo ID that matches the booking name at check-in.

Booking channels: operator website, mobile app, or marketplace (examples: Bounce, Stasher, Vertoe, LuggageHero). Required inputs: number of items, approximate dimensions/weight, desired drop-off and retrieval time windows, full name, phone number, and email. Instant confirmation typically includes a QR code or booking reference.

Accepted payment methods: major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay in many apps. Self-service lockers accept contactless cards and NFC wallets; cash acceptance is rare. Verify cancellation and refund windows before completing payment.

ID requirements at drop-off: primary photo ID (passport, state driver’s license, state ID card, or military ID) that matches the reservation name. Operators often require presenting the booking confirmation (printed or on a phone) and a signature. For group or corporate bookings, one authorized signer listed on the reservation can check items in and out.

Alternative verification: some pre-paid marketplace bookings allow drop-off with only the booking QR/code and no additional ID, but most staffed locations will still request photo ID on arrival. Minors’ items must be checked in by an accompanying adult who provides ID and signs consent.

On-hand documentation at retrieval: claim receipt or QR code plus the same government photo ID used at drop-off. Staff will scan the claim ticket, match ID, remove tags, and hand over items; expect a short identity-photo check when valuables were declared.

Fees and timing: typical hourly locker rates run about $2–6 per hour with a daily cap; staffed third-party outlets charge roughly $6–15 per day per standard suitcase, with extra charges for oversized bags (often $5–10). Late retrieval or overstay penalties are usually billed per day; verify the provider’s maximum storage days and liability limits before booking.

Security and insurance: declare high-value items at check-in and purchase declared-value coverage if available; standard liability limits vary from $100 up to several hundred dollars unless a premium option is selected. Prohibited items commonly include firearms, explosives, and perishables; confirm a property list on the provider’s site prior to dropping off.

Security, prohibited items, and liability for stored items

Deposit bags only at staffed drop-off counters or verified third-party vendors after removing prohibited or high-value contents; never leave personal effects unattended on concourses or platform areas.

Prohibited and restricted items

Absolute prohibitions usually include explosives, fireworks, igniters, and blasting caps; flammable liquids and fuels (gasoline, lighter fluid, paint thinners); compressed gas cylinders (propane, butane), and oxidizers. Biological agents, infectious materials, radioactive substances, and corrosive chemicals (acids, alkalis) are refused by most operators.

Ammunition, live firearms, and weapon components often require special handling or are rejected by non-airline providers; check the specific operator’s policy before leaving any weapon-related gear. Sharp implements with exposed blades are commonly barred from unattended deposits. Pressurized aerosols and large quantities of liquid solvents are typically restricted.

Perishables, live animals, and high-risk fragile items (open containers of liquid, uncooked food, potted plants) are frequently declined for safety and spoilage reasons. Valuable personal effects – cash, passports, original jewelry, wearable high-value electronics – should be carried on the person; many vendors explicitly exclude these from liability coverage.

Liability limits, inspection, and claim steps

Liability and inspection: operators normally conduct visual inspections and may use CCTV; staff reserve the right to open items suspected of containing prohibited goods. Written terms of service set value caps and handling rules – read them before handing over anything. Typical third-party caps commonly fall in the low hundreds per item unless a declared-value upgrade is purchased; exact figures vary by provider.

Loss or damage procedure: photograph contents and condition before drop-off, retain the receipt and booking confirmation, and note staff ID if present. File a written claim immediately after discovery; providers specify claim windows (often 24–72 hours for visible damage, longer for loss). Keep transaction records and photos to support claims; follow escalation steps in the operator’s policy (internal claim, insurer, then payment-card dispute if unresolved).

Risk-reduction checklist: remove irreplaceable items and original documents; use hard-sided, lockable cases with tamper-evident seals; declare high-value items in writing when an upgraded liability option exists; verify CCTV coverage and ask where stored items are held overnight. For high-value inventories, purchase travel or personal-article insurance and confirm coverage applies to third-party storage facilities.