If you can fit everything you need in a carry-on bag, then we think that is the best way to go. Carry-on luggage gives you the following advantages:
Saving money: Most airlines now charge fees for checked bags and some of those fees can be $110 for 2 bags roundtrip. You can see a list of airline baggage fees here.
There is a notable exception to the money saving rule with carry-on bags. Spirit Airlines is now charging a fee for carry-on luggage. They charge $30/bag if you pay in advance and $45/bag if you pay at the gate.
No lost luggage: When you carry-on your bags you don't have to worry about the airport losing your luggage because you'll have it with you.
More flexibility when arriving: Often, especially in larger airports, there is a cutoff time for checking in with checked bags and if you are running late it's possible you could catch your flight with carry-ons while if you have to check luggage you could miss the flight.
Less time at the airport: When your plane lands and you only have carry-on luggage you can just walk off the plane and out to your destination. Depending on the airport, you could end up waiting 30 minutes or more for your checked luggage.
With all the benefits offered by using carry-on baggage instead of checking your bags, you do need to be prepared Before You Go and pack appropriately. A few things to be especially aware of:
No sharp objects: If you normally have a small knife or tool on your key-chain make sure you remove it and either check it in a bag or leave it at home. You can't keep it with you and you can't put it in a carry-on.
Limited liquids: You are very limited with liquids you can carry on, and this usually including things like drinks and toiletries (which often don't seem "liquid", including deodorant even in a bar form, and gel). The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has a 3-1-1 policy for carry-on bags. Essentially this means you get 1, 1 quart bag that you can fill with individual bottles each 3.4 ounces or less. 3-1-1 stands for:
3: 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume)
1: 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag
1: 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin.
There are some exceptions. Medications, baby formula, baby food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. These items should be declared inspection at the security checkpoint.