Three of us are flying in to YVR tomorrow from three different domestic departure points. We arrive a few hours apart and then proceed to our hotel.

I have some free lounge access (airside only) which does not require a departing boarding pass. After arriving at YVR I'd like to check in to the lounge to hang out a few hours while awaiting the later arriving companions. But if I get my luggage from the carousel then I will not be able to use the lounge as I will be outside the security area and cannot get back in.

Of course there is nothing of value in my luggage (toiletries and a couple of days change of clothing).

Wondering how advisable or un-advisable it is to delay claiming my luggage for two to three hours before picking it up. I imagine after lying unclaimed on the carousel for 1/2 hour or so the Air Canada staff would pick it up and set it aside. I am guessing it is a bad idea but want to know others' experience.