Originally Posted by
k374
How many of you guys are using the carry on luggage ONLY philosophy advocated by Rick Steves and other world travelers? I see many seasoned travelers swearing off checking in luggage. While I see the benefits i've never actually traveled with carry on only on trips of a week or longer...few days is fine but anything more than that I carry a larger pack that needs to be checked in.
For my next 12 day trip to Europe i'm thinking of going carry on only. Infact I am thinking of making a permanent switch to carry on only for most trip unless I absolutely have to cart something big like my scuba gear on a dedicated scuba trip.
I do carry on 9 out of 10 times, including Australia, China, Europe and South America but not exceeding 7-8 days max. I check in when going on vacations with my wife only and always pray for no loss/damage. Baggage handlers especially in North America are barbarians. Also, the less interaction with any staff at the airport (eliminating check-in) the better! I have had countless luggage problems of all kinds in the past and started carry on practice some 7 years ago after litigating UA over my damaged luggage. We settled out of court after the first hearing but I have no time for this nonsense! I use one standard Rimowa carry on plus laptop bag.