One more suggestion. When we fly to a hiking destination, we check a suitcase that is large enough to fit our backpack in it. That way, if we want to check all our bags on the way home, there is room for everything. For two of us, we often check a large suitcase with a small one inside---just so we have flexibility on the way back.

of course, we have kids that live in distant parts, so we're often figuring out how to take more than just luggage in one direction or the other.

And when I fly on business, I never check a bag. Ever. Backpacking has taught me to pack light...!