Even on Southwest, which gives you two free checked bags, I see a lot of other passengers flying with small carry-on suitcases. I suppose they're worried about speed or loss/damage of their luggage, but I don't really know.
Fear of damage is fair. I'm flying United to San Diego for a little Motorcycle vacation and they will either let me check a bag or not at all - I can't buy a carry-on slot. Essentially I can bring only a carry on. I sure as shit am not checking my Motorcycle helmet, they'll destroy it. So I'm going to try traveling with nothing but my helmet, Kindle, toothbrush, and medicine :) it'll be an adventure, but fuck United.
