Originally Posted by
FlightDetective
I get the point - but it's two distinct things - a cabin bag is completely separate thing (even down to weight and dimensions) versus a hold bag.
Airlines just don't see them as the same, so you don't get an option to check-in a cabin bag when you can bring it into the cabin, just as you don't get the option to bring your checked hold bag into the cabin depending on how you're feeling that day (size and weight notwithstanding!).
If someone with status really needed to check the cabin bag for free, just don't include your AerClub number when booking. It will mean you need to do the Missing Avios form post-flight, but you'll have saved the cash!
I don't follow. The cabin baggage allowance for AerClub members is the same as the checked luggage allowance on Saver fares - i.e., 10kg. It's all the same thing, so no idea why EI would view them differently.
Not entering your status details is a poor workaround as you miss out on other benefits (i.e., allocated seating the night before) and there is the added hassle of having to retrospectively claim TPs etc.