I too am attending Quiltcon in February, it is my first time attending. I too am flying in for the show. I did not sign up for any classes for this exact reason. I am flying with only a carry on also and didn't think any of my sewing tools would make it past TSA. I signed up for lectures only. I will be interested in following this thread to read what others who have flown to quilt shows and taken classes what their experience has been.