So my buddies and I are going to Australia in 2 weeks. We all bought plane tickets out of LA which is our rendezvous point. The flight is operated by Air New Zealand.

I currently live in Dallas and am flying to LA via Southwest airlines, a ticket I bought separate. I dont think a carry-on roller bag and my backpack will be enough. I will need to bring a larger suitcase up to 50 lbs.

My question is how does it work on international flights with various, non-affiliated airlines? Can I just show them my itinerary and the bag will get to the right plane on its own despite it being two totally different airlines and flight ticket purchases?

I land in LA 2 hours before we board to fly to Auckland and ultimately Sydney and would not want to risk having to get the bag myself from the baggage claim and then re-checking it considering this will be on December 23rd, a crazy travel day.

Thoughts? Recommendations? Expertise?

Thank you!