We’ve discovered it’s often cheaper to ship our bags via UPS, since we are a large family. The best part is that when you deplane, you leave the airport. No riding herd in the baggage claim area trying to get the bags and keep them off the carousel.
We did this on a driving vacation to Texas as well. Lots more room in the van for the 4 kids and two dogs that way.
I sometimes do that when I travel to Texas.
I always put a little extra in my carry-on, just in case.
My friend comes up to NY from Florida 3 or 4 times a year. She set up a dresser the last time. She now comes with the clothes on her back....and her big purse of course.
“ship our bags via UPS....”
My folks do that when they fly out. No hassles, Mama brings her pocketbook and Daddy packs a small carry-on with a change of clothes and a few basics. Sometimes it’s cheaper, sometimes it’s not - but Daddy says it’s money well spent if he can avoid the aggravation.-—JM