I think it's a bit of both. I stopped checking bags in because of all the hassles - delays, lost bags, etc. This was well before airlines started charging for

I think it's a bit of both. I stopped checking bags in because of all the hassles - delays, lost bags, etc. This was well before airlines started charging for checked bags, and I know many others (mostly frequent travelers) in the same boat. It's not a lot of fun showing up in London without your luggage when you have a meeting in Cambridge the next morning. Less frequent travelers I know stopped checking luggage in after the airlines started charging.