[mslate]

I would be happy to pay for carry-on if it meant guaranteed space.

On the other hand, checked bags should be free/at a discount.

I have not understood why the pricing was inverse.

[ghxst]

Exactly my thoughts, the current pricing model incentives people to cram as much as possible into their carry-on and stretch the definition of their extra "personal item" (not sure if all airlines allow those), leading to all kinds of shenanigans especially on full flights. I think the situation would improve a lot if you were always given 1 free bag to check in and a paid option for a carry-on, especially if they can guarantee the space.

[SoftTalker]

Yes I always thought that airlines wanted to encourage checked bags because people having to stow their carry-on bags dramatically slows down the time needed for boarding.

[SilasX]

This. Not to mention deplaning and more expense time screening for security.

[Schiendelman]

Checked bags require the airline to pay humans to move them.