Ever booked a connecting flight on two different airlines

Ever booked a connecting flight on two different airlines?
I want to book a flight to Hawaii and I found it is cheaper if I book a round trip flight from my home to Phoenix and then a seperate round trip flight from Phoenix to Honolulu. The problem is that these two flights will be on different airlines. I have never done anything like this before and am just wondering how your experience was and if it is worth the savings to do it this way. Also, can I check in for my second flight from my home airport? If not, then will I have to go out of security to check in once I get to Phoenix? What do I do about my baggage, is carry on my only option? I'd call an expert to ask but I have no idea who to call. Which airline should I call or should I call the airport in Phoenix? I just really have no idea who can help me, so any information you have would be great.
Air Travel - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
It's worth the savings!! I did this when I went overseas, and it was easy. The airlines handle the luggage, so all you have to do is run through the terminal! You won't have to go through a security check point unless they have check points at each gate. Do it though! If it's going to save you money, do it! Just be sure to leave plenty of lay-over time!
2 :
I've done it once (only because of a schedule mess-up). I arranged to have my bags transferred, no problem -- through the ticket counter of one of the airlines. Just call one (or both) of the airlines toll-free number. They will help you out. You can also look up Travel Agents in the yellow pages. Call around to find a friendly one who can help you with your exact situation.
3 :
Since you have already checked fares, you must know what airlines you are looking at. You didn't specify this your question. I'll just throw out a few examples of baggage agreement: US Air transfer to United, Continental transfer to Northweat, American to Hawaiian. If your first leg is Southwest, then you'd better just carry-on your luggage.
4 :
Pretty much all US-based airlines will "interline" with each other--meaning they'll check baggage through to your final destination, even if you're starting on a different airline that you ticketed separately. Just show both of you itineraries when you check in, and request your baggage be checked through to HNL (look on the sticker after they attach it to your bag to be sure it's routed through with your properly). Take your baggage claim sticker with you--don't lose it--on the minute chance you'd need to make a baggage claim. And as another said, leave PLENTY of connect time at PHX--I recommend at least 4 hours--so get there early, and if you're on time, just relax in an restaurant while you're waiting--you're on vacation, remember! Enjoy your trip.