Originally Posted by
seanp7
I'm doing DCA-JFK-LHR-BCN on AA/BA at the end of the month and will let you know how it goes.
As Dave Noble said, check the bags through to Sydney. If there are any problems, there are enough flights to get you your bag in a timely manner.
If you are still concerned, pack 1-2 days gear in a carry-on and place the rest in checked baggage. If travelling with a companion, include some of theirs so you both aren't stuck waiting for baggage or having to purchase new clothes.
I have just had some bags go astray in HEL , so now enjoying being able to go buy $500 of clothes at the travel insurance company's expense in sunny Madison; so not all bad if they do get delayed, especially if you have taken the approach of packing enough stuff for a day or 2
To me, there just seems to be excessive paranoia over luggage ; I have rarely had luggage go astray and never actually had a bag permanently lost
Dave