To Check or not to Check

[Mike in NC]

My wife and I are headed to WDW in about 9 days and I've been pondering our luggage options. In the past, when we go on one of these "spontaneous" trips (6 or fewer nights and fairly short notice), we've always just packed carryon bags and not checked anything. This works sooooo well for us. Now, however, considering the change in security procedures, I wonder if it would be easier to pack one large bag and check it. I am uncertain because it seems that the baggage check-in might take longer than before also. Anyone have any ideas or experience here? Thanks

 

[safetymom]

Just check it. It's much easier.

 

[shoes99]

We travelled from EWR to MCO last week. We had 4 checked bags for 3 travellers. It did not take longer to check bags at the self service kiosk at Newark. There was no wait. Coming back to Orlando we just took our bags with us in the rental car, and just checked in at the Delta counter. There was no wait, and there was no wait at Security. Our bags were carry on size rollers, and one square cosmetic case. We put all our jells, cosmetics, toothpaste, etc. and my nephews stridex acne pads all in one case. It was inspected on the way back to Newark. We got a card from security, but we couldn't figure out why. We think it was the stridex pads. It was such a pleasure to walk on the plane and have enough free space in the overhead compartments. Hardly anyone had a roll suitcase. Most people had backpacks and soft small carryons.

 

[Mike in NC]

Thanks folks. Sounds like checking a large bag may be the best option, especially if curbside is still working at Charlotte. One thing I neglected to mention is that we are flying US Air this trip which is not a participating airline with ME. Accordingly, we will supposedly have to check the bag ourselves coming back through MCO also. That was one of my main concerns. The lines last May were pretty long and I can't imagine that it will be better now, considering.

 

[DebbieB]

If the line is long inside, try going outside and do curbside check.

Keep in mind your bag cannot go over 50 pounds or you will be charged. You may want to consider 2 smaller ones.

 

[DonnaL]

I agree with DebbieB about the 50 lb limit.......IMO it's far easier to have 2 smaller bags rather than 1 large one that may be close to the limit (with no other bag available to transfer some stuff). I hear what you're saying about taking only carryons in the past, though. That's exactly what my DH and I are accustomed to doing when it's only the two of us. We're traveling for the first time in mid October since new regs are in place and I just reminded him last night that we'll need to check bags this time.

 

[ExPirateShopGirl]

If the line is long inside, try going outside and do curbside check.

Keep in mind your bag cannot go over 50 pounds or you will be charged. You may want to consider 2 smaller ones.

Agreed! Two smaller work out much better than one larger. A good 26" suiter can be stuffed and still stay under 50 lbs. A 28" suiter and you'll have to watch it.

Have a great trip!

 

[Mike in NC]

Thanks all. I normally weigh large suitcases before leaving home. We've been caught in that trap on ski vacations. When it's just dw and me going to the World for a few days, we normally just throw a few things in a bag and go. If we run short we wash and/or buy. I doubt if both of us together will exceed 30 lbs. Come to think of it, we may just take our smaller suitcases and check them instead of carrying them onboard.