amazing nj, you can do just that with LH at FRA, MUC and DUS. Since there are few red eyes over here, if you head out the airport at 8PM it is usually pretty quiet. Maybe this would not work in the US as well as there are more redeyes, but I am still surprised no one offers it. Particularly good option for families who can't carry all their luggage on. I have to laugh at some people's admonitions to never check luggage - that is not always practical for long trips and/or if you are with children.