Originally Posted by
Kgmm77
I can't be the only one struggling to reconcile how so many people claim never/very rarely to check bags and yet use the likelihood of checked bags going missing/damaged as justification.
The likelihood of bags missing and damaged is based on previous experience. I've threatened it myself after three pieces of luggage in a row were torn up from time the time I left them with check-in until retrieved at the baggage carousel. Plus, with the inability to lock bags now - unless you are willing to use TSA-friendly equipment - has caused a lot of travelers more grief than ever with missing items. If delay wasn't an issue, places like the Unclaimed Baggage store wouldn't even exist.
Originally Posted by
Kgmm77
More generally, there's no doubt the checked bag fee is the main driver.
Possibly another reason, but I would chalk that one up as the main driver only to people who fly very rarely and suddenly find out about checked bag fees.
I would also bring this as a reason - some of the frequent travelers have no true need for checked baggage since they are staying such a short time. All the necessities can be carried in one bag. The smaller rolling bags and larger backpacks hold quite a bit, and once you find your sweet spot with packing, you can get away with a lot less than most of us believe is necessary. And that will save time after getting off the plane, even international flights, allowing for better chances at connecting.
Originally Posted by
Kgmm77
A few people have expressed a hope for pragmatism and common sense in application of the rules, unfortunately that seems in short supply anywhere these days.
Agreed!
Personally, I'm hoping to reduce my baggage needs in the next few trips to a slightly larger purse for carryon (as it'll hold the EEE) and just the one checked suitcase with the option for the checked sports bag *if* I do too much shopping. The main reason I don't want to have to bring the sports bag is that every time I have it, that one gets opened up and items get moved around. Sometimes I have the love letter from the TSA. When I don't get that note and there's still a sense that the things have been gone through, it doesn't give me a warm fuzzy feeling about letting my bags get checked again.