Fly whoever is cheapest with carry-on. If you need to check bags for a week's trip, you're doing something wrong.

Travel with a lady lately?

My mom and my sister both travel light, actually lighter than my dad.

Most ladies worth dating are experienced enough in travel for this not to be a problem. Fortunately, NY is full of women who are experienced in that fashion. (It's easier not to find an American prima-donna than to find one, one of the reasons why it's the greatest city in the US.)

My ideal lady is a lesbian trapped in a straight body, comfy shoes and all.