I agree, but look at this comment section. You’re saying this is obvious (and I agree) other people are claiming this is “highly unusual”. Direct your sarcasm at them, not me 🤷🏻♀️
I direct it at Americans because how do I know if different countries do it like this? Different countries have different regulations. It's better to be specific. If other nationalities want to take it in to consideration obviously they can.
How late in the evening are we talking about here? My flight comes in at 1PM, just want a reference point. I've had a Thai national concur with you that people who come in in the morning get them pretty quickly that day.
You really don't think you can pair down your wardrobe for three weeks so it can fit in a carry-on? That said I don't think it'd be difficult to do what you're trying to do (so long as you have enough time in between flights - like an hour or two). It's an easy thing to prove to immigrations/customs (proof of your next flight). You're not trying to actually enter Thailand (which is their main concern, no? people entering who shouldn't be), you're just trying to grab you bag so you can check it and yourself in to another flight. I mean they'll probably be like 'why the hell would this person book their flights this way', but I don't think it'll cause you much strife...that's just my opinion, though.