That's one of the biggest differences I've noticed between flying in Canada and flying in the U.S.

I suppose there are always exceptions, but Canadians tend to be more likely to travel on the plane with only those things they need while in transit, and check the rest.

Americans, on the other hand, like to bring bin-busting behemoths on board, which is why nearly every CO flight I'm on is late getting off the gate. The last 20 or so pax seem to always have to navigate their way backwards up the aisle to gate-check their baggage.

Then again, the fact that AC, WS, and PD all still allow free checked baggage makes a difference too, I'm sure.