I have an upcoming connection at PEK with separate tickets. Flying CAN-PEK on CZ and departing same day PEK-DTW on DL. My scheduled time between flights is 5 hours 40 minutes which I suspect (hope) is ample.

I could ask for CZ to through-check my bag, but unsure if they would (or if I would want them to). I could also attempt to carry-on only, but I am not positive that I can pack that lightly for a 10 day trip. I am in F on CZ and J on DL, if that makes any difference to my carry-on options.

If I opt to check my bag CAN-PEK, collect it and recheck, how complicated is this at PEK? I have never set foot in the airport at PEK before so clueless about how it is even laid out. Suggestions appreciated.