This isn't true at all, in my experience. I've been on multi-leg trips that included weddings and formal events as well as beach time, which meant packing forma

This isn't true at all, in my experience. I've been on multi-leg trips that included weddings and formal events as well as beach time, which meant packing formal shoes and clothing (in a couple cases a full suit) along with enough t-shirts to deal with the humidity of a beach, shorts, flip-flops, trunks, etc. My 40L backpack has so far been accepted as carry-on in 15+ different countries, and I carry a small tote bag[1] for overflow/on-the-plane items (usually laptop+book, but occasionally shoes). Hell, right know I'm visiting some (lovably) stodgy family in the old country, which means I have to pack formal clothing for the inevitable trips to the country club and various events... And I spent a few days on the beach in Thailand right before this. I was able to do all of this while carrying half a dozen gifts that took up probably 30% of my bag. Your comment just reinforces my bafflement and my impression that people subject themselves to checked baggage because they've simply never bothered to look into the alternative. I'm sure there are many people for whom checking a bag works out fine, but the bafflement comes from the many people (including some I know personally) who hate the hassle but haven't gotten around to trying carry-on-only travel. [1] It's the New Yorker tote bag, in case anyone is familiar with the dimensions