Originally Posted by
Super Mario
I don't believe OP insinuated carrying on items should be abolished. That option can remain. I take the position as it's silly to charge for checked luggage but not anything else. Where checking a bag left at the counter has to subsidize the cheap people who stuff everything they own into countless backpacks, duffle bags, etc. Taking all of the overhead space, smacking you in the head, slowing the loading and unloading of the plane. Anyone is welcome to fly Southwest where everything is freeeee, but may not always be free.
I have flown many times with just a carryon. Why should I be forced to check it, if it is the correct size? With meds, DME and other difficult to replace items, it’s pretty critical to have my carryon bag. Southwest does a pretty good job, actually. Not my first choice, but decent for 1-2 hour flights.
Most airlines have a very long list of things not covered in checked bags. My then teenager, was forced to check her legal sized bag on an international trip, years ago. Her laptop was in the bag being force checked. Screen got broken. Airplane paid nothing.