underseat travel bag size

Underseat Luggage Size Restrictions for 20 Popular Airlines

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The size restrictions for carry-ons are generally easy to understand. The most common size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, which has become an industry standard. However, when it comes to underseat luggage, the current situation is “all over the place”. The actual size restrictions vary a lot between airlines, and some airlines don’t even disclose the exact measurements.

To make your life easier, we made this guide where you can find the exact underseat luggage size restrictions for 20 popular airlines. Note that these restrictions might change, which is why we’ve also linked out to their official websites. Make sure to double-check the restrictions before you start packing.

What Is Underseat Luggage?

Underseat luggage is a type of hand luggage that you’re allowed to bring onto the passenger area of a plane. You’ll have to stow it under the front seat unless you’re sitting in the emergency exit row. If you happen to get one of those seats, your luggage will have to be stored in the overhead compartments together with carry-ons. The items that you’re allowed to use as underseat luggage vary between different airlines.

Generally, you can use small, wheeled suitcases , small backpacks, tote bags, handbags, duffle bags , messenger bags, laptop bags , camera bags, briefcases, and other similar items. Usually, underseat luggage isn’t as heavily restricted as carry-ons. Most of the time, the security will quickly glance over your underseat item to make sure it isn’t too large and let you pass through. The only rule is that it has to fit under the front seat. That’s because, in case of an emergency, all aisles have to be clear of any obstacles/luggage.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

What’s the Difference Between a Personal Item and Underseat Luggage?

There isn’t any difference between the two. When airlines refer to personal items ( or personal articles, if in Europe, ) underseat luggage is included in that statement. The only difference is that when someone says “underseat luggage,” they’re usually talking about bags and suitcases specifically designed for this purpose. “Personal item” is a slightly different term because a personal item could also be a camera, a laptop, an assistive device, an umbrella , a child seat, a pet carrier, or something similar.

Read Next: 10 Best Wheeled Underseat Suitcases in 2022

What Size Underseat Item You Should Get?

The underseat size restrictions are different for each airline. If you want to purchase a bag that would fit most underseat restrictions, try getting one below 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm) as this is the most common size restriction. Sometimes the restrictions are a bit smaller (and sometimes larger,) but if you get a flexible fabric bag you should be able to squeeze it in. Good options for personal items would be small backpacks, duffle bags, totes, messenger bags, and purses.

Below, we’ll cover the underseat luggage/personal item size restrictions for the 20 most popular airlines in North America and the rest of the world. Unless you’re flying to remote destinations, we recommend searching for the specific airline you will be using.

1. American Airlines

American Airlines states that underseat items should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

2. Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines doesn’t specifically mention their underseat item restrictions anywhere on their website. Instead, they say that the personal item should be a purse, a briefcase, a diaper bag, a laptop computer, and other items in similar dimensions. This doesn’t help much because, for instance, diaper bags can come in various sizes. Sometimes these bags can be bigger than the carry-on restrictions.

The actual size under the front seat in Delta varies based on which aircraft model you’ll be flying with. For instance, on the Bombardier CRJ200, the size restrictions are 18 x 16 x 10.5 inches. Yet on the Embraer 175, the restrictions are 17 x 16 x 7.8 inches. In order to find out the exact dimensions, you should contact them directly, and tell them your flight details. They specify that bulkhead seats don’t have underseat storage, so plan on stowing them in the overhead bin during take-off and landing.

3. United Airlines

On United Airlines , underseat items shouldn’t exceed 17 x 10 x 9 inches.

4. Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines states that underseat items have to be under 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. If your item doesn’t fit under the front seat, they’ll ask you to store it in the overhead compartments.

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

5. Air Canada

Air Canada limits underseat luggage on all of its aircraft to 17 x 13 x 6 inches.

6. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines doesn’t specifically mention any size restrictions for underseat items. Instead, they say that the underseat item should be a purse, a briefcase, or a laptop bag.

The actual size under the seats depends on which aircraft you’ve boarded. If you will be flying on their Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the underseat dimensions are 14 x 12 x 9 inches. To get the exact measurements, contact Alaska Airlines and tell them your flight details. They’ll reply shortly with the exact dimensions.

7. Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines has stated that underseat items shouldn’t exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

If you’re flying with JetBlue , then your underseat luggage shouldn’t exceed 17 x 13 x 8 inches.

9. Air France

Air France states that underseat items shouldn’t be larger than 16 x 12 x 6 inches.

10. KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines)

On KLM , underseat luggage shouldn’t exceed 15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches, regardless if you’re flying Economy, Business, European, or International flights .

11. Lufthansa

Lufthansa restricts their passenger’s underseat luggage to 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 inches (40 x 30 x 10 cm). Their width limit of 3.9 inches is the tightest one we’ve seen yet, which means that you’ll be able to use only slim briefcases, purses, or laptop messenger bags.

12. Ryanair

On Ryanair , underseat luggage is restricted to 15.7 x 9.8 x 7.8 inches (40 x 25 x 20 cm). One of our staff members used their Matein 15.6-inch laptop backpack as a personal/underseat item which is larger than these restrictions, and he never had any issues. From his experience, they tend to inspect carry-ons more than underseat luggage.

13. Wizz Air

Wizz Air has said on their official website that underseat luggage shouldn’t exceed 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm.) However, they mention that, regardless of the restrictions, the underseat item should always fit under the front seat. Also, they are the only airline that we know of that doesn’t include wheels and handles in their size restrictions.

14. Norwegian Airlines

Norwegian Airlines is fairly strict in its underseat luggage restrictions – they must be smaller than 14.9 x 11.8 x 7.8 inches This means that even a 15-inch laptop might be too large.

15. Finnair

Finnair limits their passenger’s underseat luggage to 15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches. Also, they require that the combined weight of your carry-on and underseat item can’t exceed 17.6 lbs (8kg.) Make sure that you don’t bring anything heavy!

16. British Airways

British Airways restricts underseat luggage to 16 x 12 x 6 inches. Their weight limit is much less restrictive than Finnair, allowing underseat items up to 51 lbs (23 kg.)

17. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines restricts underseat baggage to 15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches. We researched what people had to say on Twitter about this airline and found quite a few incidents where Turkish Airlines didn’t allow their passengers to use backpacks as personal items. In one instance , they even asked a passenger to throw their clothes from their backpack into the trash and place the empty backpack inside of their carry-on.

18. Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air states that all personal items should be under 16 x 15 x 7 inches, and that acceptable items are purses, briefcases, and small backpacks.

19. EasyJet

EasyJet restricts underseat luggage to 17.7 x 14.2 x 7.9 inches (45 x 36 x 20 cm). Wheels and handles must be included in these measurements. There isn’t a weight limit set in stone, but each passenger must be able to lift and carry their bags by themselves.

20. Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines states that personal items have to be under 18 x 14 x 8 inches, and they provide bag measuring boxes in airports. Suitable items include briefcases, backpacks, purses, totes, and diaper bags.

Why Are the Underseat Luggage Size Restrictions so Different Between Airlines?

The exact size under each seat will differ between different aircraft manufacturers, such as Boeing, Bombardier, Airbus, or Embraer. All of the largest airlines usually have a wide variety of different aircraft in their fleet.

For instance, at the time of writing this article, Delta Airlines has 834 aircraft in its fleet . They service 17 different aircraft models from Airbus and Boeing and each airplane model has slightly different dimensions under their seats. That’s why Delta doesn’t specifically mention the underseat luggage size dimensions. To get an exact measurement, you have to contact them directly with your flight details.

This is the norm when it comes to airlines and their manufacturers. Usually, each airline has a variety of different aircraft in their fleet. It makes it hard for them to make a specific size restriction that fits all of their aircraft.

Obviously, this could be fixed simply by setting a new standard, where each new airplane model would have to have an exact amount of space underneath the seats. But as of yet, no such standard has been set and it doesn’t appear that there will be one in the near future.

What Items Can Be Used as Underseat Luggage?

Here’s a list of items that are usually accepted as personal items/underseat luggage:

• Small backpacks
• Handbags/purses
• Small duffle bags
• Camera/DSLR bags
• Messenger bags
• Laptop bags
• Small rolling suitcases within the size limits
• Assistive medical devices

Having said that, from our personal experiences, we recommend that you always use a bag that’s made from a soft material and avoid overpacking it. This way, you’ll be able to squeeze the bag underneath the front seat, even if it’s slightly too large. Theoretically, you can also use small, hard-shell suitcases or leather duffles within the size limits. Keep in mind that, sometimes, they might be too large, so use them at your own risk.

Final Thoughts

In reality, the restrictions for personal items are a bit looser compared to carry-ons. However, it’s still important to know each airline’s specific restrictions, if you want to avoid paying additional fines.

When purchasing a personal item, try to get one that would fit within the restrictions for most airlines. Consider using something soft that you can squeeze under the seat so you can avoid any issues when flying, such as small backpacks, totes, messenger bags, or duffle bags.

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

This post is also available in: English

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One response to “Underseat Luggage Size Restrictions for 20 Popular Airlines”

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The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Next to a good carry-on suitcase, the right personal-item bag—what the airlines call any purse, briefcase, or small backpack—is key to having a stress-free flight.

The carry-all at your feet is the best place for your necessities: books, headphones, your phone, a laptop.

Of course, just about any bag, as long as it fits under a seat, can be a personal item, but having a great one is especially important if you’re flying basic economy, which may limit you to a single underseat item.

There’s more to great underseat luggage than its size. In this guide, we go over the features you should look for, including excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options.

From there, we look at different types of personal-item bags that have all those features but are suited to different needs: Some bags are more protective, which is good if you’re traveling with expensive or breakable items. Others are easier to carry, which is helpful if you find larger carry-ons cumbersome. And still others provide more divided compartments and extra pockets for travel necessities. We also offer a few picks to fit different situations.

The research

Why you should trust us, what is a personal-item bag, what makes a good personal-item bag, decide what type of personal-item bag you need, a wheeled bag with reinforced sides: travelpro crew versapack rolling tote, a handsome shoulder bag: waterfield air porter carry-on bag, an adaptable carry-all: the away everywhere bag, a classic tote in nylon: longchamp le pliage tote, the competition.

I’ve covered bags and luggage for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve assessed hundreds of bags, ranging from carry-on luggage to travel backpacks to duffle bags . I’ve talked to bag designers, luggage experts, and people who make a life (and sometimes a living) as world travelers. For this article, we also looked at underseat size regulations for the major domestic airlines.

At its most basic, a personal-item bag is a carry-on bag that you can stuff under the seat in front of you while on a flight—which is why it’s sometimes called underseat luggage. Although we wanted to find bags that maximize your available underseat space, airlines generally aren’t as forthcoming with their underseat dimensions as they are with their overhead-bin restrictions. And personal-item sizes, once you do find them, usually differ from one airline to another:

Air Canada : 17 by 13 by 6 inches Alaska : not specified Allegiant : 16 by 15 by 7 inches American : 18 by 14 by 8 inches Breeze : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Delta : 22 by 15 by 9 inches Frontier : 18 by 14 by 8 inches JetBlue : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Southwest : 16.25 by 13.5 by 8 inches Spirit : 18 by 14 by 8 inches United : 17 by 10 by 9 inches

After checking with 12 airlines, we found that the average size of a personal-item bag is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. If your bag isn’t rigid and comes close to these measurements, you’re probably going to be okay stuffing it under the seat in front of you. If you really want to be sure your underseat luggage will fit, the best way is to call ahead and confirm the underseat dimensions for your flight.

Similar to carry-on luggage, underseat luggage is subject to size and shape requirements. However, unlike most of the things people fly with—nearly all of which are precisely designed for airplane use—almost any small bag (your favorite backpack or tote, for instance) can work as a personal item. That said, there are a few details that separate a great personal-item bag from an ordinary one. Beyond it being just the right size, we’ve found that a personal item should have a few key design details to really stand out.

• Durability: A personal-item bag will spend a bunch of time sitting on an airplane floor, an unappealing resting place of shoe grime, spilled liquids, and lost snacks. It’s important that a bag is made of material that’s both resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.
• Organization: As more airlines begin to introduce Basic Economy tickets, which often restrict travelers to personal items only, having a bag that can mimic some of the capacity and organization of a carry-on becomes increasingly important. We prefer a variety of pockets, ideally a separate laptop compartment, and some kind of water-bottle holder.
• Multiple carrying options: Some underseat luggage pieces designed with air travel in mind have sleeves that you can slide over the rails of carry-on luggage handles. But other carrying options, like backpack straps, shoulder straps, or side handles, can also facilitate easy maneuverability.

Lots of luggage manufacturers now sell bags specifically labeled “personal items,” and some of these have useful features that you might not find in your average backpack or tote bag (more on that later). Still, if you have a bag that already works for you, stick with it. If not, check out our picks below, but also look at the recommendations in our guides to laptop backpacks (most of which will fit under a seat), to duffles (ditto), and any of the picks in our guides to packable daypacks  and tote bags . One of those might work just as well for you as a made-for-the-purpose personal item.

For this guide, of those bags specifically designed to be personal items, we looked for models from reputable brands that we’ve recommended in the past, that meet the average underseat dimensions, and that have the traits to make it a great personal-item bag. Then we chose bags that offered different features to suit multiple types of travel scenarios and preferences.

We have a wheeled-bag pick for people who prefer to roll their bag behind them. We have picks that carry like totes. Some of the bags we chose have pass-through straps to loop over the handles of your carry-on luggage . Though this last feature can help you manage the load of a suitcase and a bag, several luggage designers I’ve talked to over the years have said that one of the most common ways to break a carry-on is to rest something too heavy across the telescoping handles. Though they’re able to pull a decent weight, these handles are not designed to support large or heavy loads across their narrow frames. With this in mind, we have options for travelers who prefer pass-through straps as well as those who don’t.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote

A wheeled bag with reinforced sides.

Designed to fit under an airline seat, this diminutive version of our favorite carry-on luggage rolls along on wheels, has a long extending handle, and its reinforced sides mean it’s tougher than your average fabric tote or backpack.

Buying Options

Who it’s for: The Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote’s small squat form sits on two wheels, which makes it a remarkably maneuverable case for anyone who doesn’t prefer (or is unable) to carry their personal item on their shoulder or back. The Crew Tote also mounts well to the handles of a carry-on suitcase with a pass-through strap that’s held tight with Velcro.

Why it’s great for travel: The compact Crew Tote is large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip but still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. However, if you catch a seat with an underseat power bank or any other kind of obstruction, you won’t be able to wedge this case into place like you might be able to do with a soft bag or backpack. That said, the internal frame, wrapped in nylon fabric similar to soft-sided carry-on luggage, should endure plenty of accidental kicks and scuffs. That reinforcement is particularly useful if you’re packing delicate items, such as cameras, extra computer equipment, or fragile gifts.

We’ve recommended Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage for years in our carry-on and checked suitcases guides because of its durability, dependability, and lifetime warranty (that also protects against airline damage for the first three years). Like those other Travelpro picks, the Crew Tote meets the same standards in materials, build quality, and guarantee.

Pockets and organization: The Crew Tote has one main compartment, as well as a front pocket for small papers and tickets. The main compartment of the Crew Tote is built and organized like a small piece of carry-on luggage, with rolling wheels and internal, zippered organizational compartments, combined with some aspects useful in a personal item, such as a padded sleeve (it holds up to a 14-inch laptop) and a pass-through sleeve. The tote is also compatible with Travelpro’s customizable packing-cube system (video) , which we discuss in the Competition section of our packing cubes guide.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As with any rolling luggage, you lose a little packing space to the handle and wheel carriage. The rigid shape of the Crew Tote means there’s very little wiggle room if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you. Despite the inclusion of a small, exterior, flexible pocket—nominally for an umbrella or water bottle—we found that it was too small to be of much use for anything except a very narrow plastic water bottle.

Dimensions: 16.5 by 15.75 by 8.5 inches Weight: 6.7 pounds Capacity: 22.5 liters

Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag

A shoulder bag to organize your tech.

The versatility and toughness of a canvas-and-leather briefcase, with the organization and capacity of a small daypack.

Who it’s for: The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a high-end personal item made for air travel. But the bag truly shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. Plus, it’s good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the boardroom without raising an eyebrow.

Why it’s great for travel: The Waterfield Air Porter has a pass-through strap you can attach to a wheeled-suitcase handle, and like our other picks, the bag fits well under an airline seat. In addition to the waterproof waxed-canvas exterior, which makes the bag easy to wipe off if it comes out from under the seat looking dusty or spilled-on, Waterfield bags have waterproof exterior zippers and water-resistant interior lining. The Air Porter is built to look better with age, while also keeping your stuff safe from the elements and stress of travel. In addition to the pass-through strap, the bag has handles (so you can carry it like a briefcase) and a removable shoulder strap, which keeps it from getting caught on things while it’s stowed away.

Waterfield also makes an Air Caddy to hold your tablet and cables. If you don’t already have a tech organizer , I recommend it. The Air Caddy is as well built as the Air Porter, plus it fits nicely inside the bag and matches the overall look. (Unfortunately, Waterfield no longer offers a discount for bundling in an Air Caddy when you buy the Air Porter.)

Pockets and organization: The bag is split into two compartments. One half has a built-in padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and two pockets for tech accessories (including wires, headphones, and charging components), both of which are large enough to hold a battery pack for on-the-go charging. The other half is the larger compartment, with plenty of small interior pockets to assist you in organizing things like a few small pieces of clothing or a toiletry kit. The Air Porter also has a front expanding pocket, with magnets that keep the flap closed whether the pocket’s empty or full. It’s a great feature if you often travel with magazines and books. On either side, the Air Porter has two expanding sleeves for holding a travel umbrella and a water bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Air Porter is our priciest pick, but considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, we think it’s worth the price—this bag will last a lifetime if cared for properly. We do wish it were a little larger so you could take full advantage of the space available at your feet. Waterfield has a 30-day return policy with no restocking fee, but you will have to cover return shipping costs. Additionally, Waterfield offers a lifetime warranty for any product defects.

Dimensions: 15 by 10.25 by 4.5 inches Weight: 2.4 pounds Capacity: 11.25 liters

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all to attach to your carry-on.

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Who it’s for: The Away Everywhere Bag feels aggressively designed to offend absolutely no one. It is the true neutral of all personal items, with plenty of carrying options and as many organization options as our other picks. If you want a personal item that’s both simple and well-organized and similar to a weekend duffle bag or large tote (with enough space for a spare outfit, toiletry bag, and a laptop), this is an excellent pick.

Why it’s great for travel: The Everywhere Bag is made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, which is perfect for the floor of an airplane. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, and like most of our other picks, it includes a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, which makes it convenient to carry atop your luggage.

Pockets and organization: The interior features six slim pockets and a sleeve large enough for a 15-inch laptop. At the base of the bag, there’s a zippered waterproof pocket for an umbrella. Outside the bag is a single slim pocket, well-shaped for tickets and important travel documents. Otherwise, the bag opens into a larger interior pocket, which is enough to hold a change of clothes, a toiletry kit, and a book or magazine. If you’re flying for just an overnight trip, this could easily be the only bag you need to carry. (The bag comes in two versions: Original, which has a main zipper that extends partway down the ends of the bag, and New, which has a main zipper that extends all the way down each end of the bag, providing a larger opening.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Without any interior separation, all your gear is mashed together along with your computer and tech. There isn’t a special pocket for a water bottle, which means if you carry one, it is dangerously close to everything else.

Dimensions: 16.3 by 7.3 by 10.2 inches Weight : 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

A stylish, expandable tote.

This tote packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is perfect for the floor of an airplane: It’s easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs and kicks it might receive on a long flight.

Who it’s for: The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is great if you need an adaptable personal item that can easily double as a purse or work bag as soon as you leave the plane. Unlike many bags made to be this tough, the Longchamp is handsome and looks good enough to easily transition from travel bag to daily carry.

Why it’s great for travel: The lightweight (especially compared with leather bags) Le Pliage Tote shines as a travel bag because of its simple, packable design and practical materials. The nylon construction wipes down easily if spilled on, and you can fold it down and pack it away if you want to consolidate down to one bag on any leg of your trip.

The Le Pliage’s shoulder strap is made of rolled leather, which our tester said kept the strap from biting into their shoulder as much as unrolled leather straps can. Its main compartment is large enough to hold a laptop, sweatshirt, water bottle, and other assorted travel items. It zips shut, so you won’t lose anything even as you stuff it underneath your seat. The understated shape and design of the bag also blends in nicely with both professional and casual outfits.

Pockets and organization: There is one modest pocket on top for your phone, wallet, and keys. However, we found that even this pocket felt a touch small.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: For a bag that’s great for taking right from the plane to the office, we wished for a laptop compartment, or some other way to separate items beyond the single top pocket. In our testing, we ended up organizing the tote ourselves with bag organizers . The Le Pliage lacks a pass-through strap or slot for attaching to the handles of your carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 12.25 by 11.75 by 7.5 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds Capacity: 17 liters

Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack: The clamshell design of this backpack, a former pick in this guide, was perfect for anyone who liked to separate their gear into individual pockets and compartments. The bag was well made, shaped to fit under just about any airline seat, and warrantied for a lifetime of travel. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Duffle Bags

by Kit Dillon

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The 8 Best Underseat Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These small pieces are practical and versatile

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

There are multiple reasons to invest in a great underseater. Perhaps you’re traveling with a budget airline that charges an additional fee for space in the overhead compartment, or maybe you’ve already got a carry-on and a checked bag but also like to keep essentials within easy reach at your feet. They’re the ultimate overnight bag and great for quick business trips or weekends away. Size is one of the most important factors to look out for, as is material (soft-sided bags often have more give than their hard-sided counterparts ). 

To help you find the best underseat luggage, we tested 18 of the most popular options in the TripSavvy lab, scoring each for capacity, design, functionality, maneuverability, and value.

Final Verdict

Other underseat luggage we tested, how we tested, what to look for in underseat luggage, why trust tripsavvy, best overall, calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5

Functional internal storage

Responsive handling

Stylish design

No external pockets

With its polycarbonate shell in a range of classic and contemporary colors (from black to moss or pink sand), we loved that the Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage looks chic and professional without being too conservative. It’s designed to fit beneath most airline seats, and indeed, we found that it fits easily beneath the simulated seat in our laboratory. We also liked that despite its hard shell, it has enough give to squeeze into tighter spaces if necessary.

The suitcase opens clamshell-style to reveal a zippered divider on one side and a large open compartment with compression straps on the other. Organization options are diverse, with multiple zippered pockets on both sides. Our only complaint was a lack of exterior pockets, which would have been a nice extra for keeping essentials handy in flight. Nevertheless, we could easily fit everything on our prescribed packing list and even had some space left over.

Four dual spinner wheels and an extending handle combine to give the suitcase flawlessly smooth and sturdy movement. We found it a breeze to maneuver around our obstacle course, and we believe it would perform just as well in a busy airport. Other features include a TSA-approved lock, an easy-grab bottom handle, and a limited two-year warranty.

Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Capacity: 29 liters

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Kenneth Cole Reaction Underseater Spinner

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Functionality 4 /5

Trendy design

Pleasant to use

Plenty of internal and external organization

Bulky when filled to capacity

Designed to fit under the seats of most airlines, we primarily loved the Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Underseat Spinner for its maneuverability. It rolls incredibly smoothly on four wheels and can turn in a complete circle with zero resistance—something that makes it well worth its already reasonable price tag, in our book. The fact that it’s a fashion-forward choice with a chevron-quilted polyester twill exterior and gold accent zippers is a bonus. You can order yours in black, navy, or olive.

The underseater also offers impressive storage features. On the outside, there’s an easy-access front compartment with a padded tablet sleeve, small organizer pockets, and a side water bottle holder. The main compartment includes another zippered pocket, elasticated shoe pockets, and compression straps for holding everything neatly in place. We found that we could fit two days’ worth of thick clothes comfortably. However, overstuffing the bag made it difficult to fit under our simulated airline seat.

Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best Splurge

Tumi oxford compact carry-on.

• Design 4 /5
• Functionality 4.5 /5

Variety of organizational options

Stellar maneuverability

Smart features

The exorbitant price tag

At first glance, the Tumi Oxford Compact Carry-On looks similar to the Kenneth Cole Reaction underseater with its smart, dark color choices and gold or silver accent zippers. However, it’ll cost you more than two and a half times the price—a price we found hard to justify. Nevertheless, it’s a good option for those who like to travel in style with one of the best names in the business. The suitcase features lightweight nylon and has several extras, including an integrated USB charge port, a Tumi Tracer, and complimentary monogramming.

It’s also uniquely designed with a separate front and back compartment. The back compartment includes two media pockets, a zippered pocket, and an organizer section for your pens and cards. We liked that the front compartment is accessible from the outside of the bag. There’s also an exterior padded compartment for a 14-inch laptop (although we couldn’t close the zipper when the rest of the bag was packed full). The highlight for us was the bag’s flawless movement on two or four wheels. It also has a sleeve for attaching it to the handle of another suitcase.

Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | Weight: 6.6 pounds | Capacity: 21 liters

Best Maneuverability

Samsonite spinner underseater.

Useful storage

Multiple carrying options

Great value

No compression straps

Those looking for smart aesthetics and excellent functionality at a more affordable price point will love the Samsonite Spinner Underseater With USB Port. We felt it was very well made from durable polyester in a range of good-looking colors, including purple, ocean, and black. We could fit everything for a two-day trip, and although, we would have appreciated compression straps to keep everything in place, we did love the mesh organization pockets and designated laptop and tablet sleeves.

On the outside are two zippered pockets, one with an organization panel for stashing smaller items. There’s also an integrated USB port—a convenient addition to ensure you stay charged in transit. Fitting the bag under the seat was snug but ultimately successful. Above all, we loved this underseater’s superior maneuverability. It had four multidirectional spinner wheels, and we could move around obstacles, push or pull in any direction, and pivot easily. It also has carry handles and a sleeve for connecting it to another suitcase.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 13.75 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best Roller

Steve madden underseat wheeled bag.

Excellent organization

Timeless aesthetic 

Smooth maneuverability

Not particularly spacious

If you prefer the slightly retro look and operation of a two-wheeled roller suitcase, the Steve Madden Underseat Wheeled Bag may be for you. It features durable, lightweight fabric with two sturdy wheels and a telescopic, push-button handle. The latter has a contoured grip that makes it comfortable to pull through the airport. We were also impressed with how easily it handled our obstacle course and how light it felt even when packed to capacity. 

Unfortunately, that capacity is somewhat limited. We feel this bag would be better suited to warm destinations, not those requiring packing a large jacket or boots. However, we really loved its storage options, with several pockets and compartments on the exterior and interior. Our favorite was the clear plastic toiletry panel, while the side pockets are handy for a water bottle or umbrella. We also appreciated the underseater’s vintage style. It comes in various colors, from black to purple, all with contrasting accents. 

Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best for Business Travel

Nicole miller underseat luggage.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Functionality 3 /5

Attractive design

Spacious, accessible interior

Practical size

No laptop compartment

Particularly suitable for fashion-conscious businesswomen, the Nicole Miller Underseat Luggage features ultra-light nylon—making it ideal for hassle-free overnight trips. Its pretty, purse-like aesthetic caught our eye from the start, and we like its leather accents and animal-print lining. There are two colors to choose from: navy or silver. With two roller wheels and a pair of plastic feet that enable it to stand up unsupported, it was easy to maneuver around our obstacle course. 

You can also carry it using the top grab handles or use the integrated sleeve to slip it over the handle of your carry-on or checked bag. Downsides? The bag’s trolley system is somewhat flimsy and noisy to extend, and the interior is relatively unstructured (it’s kind of a dump-everything-in-the-top-and-hope-for- the-best scenario). But, we liked the integrated toiletry compartments and the exterior pocket for keeping documents or your passport at the ready. It is also very roomy and fits easily under the seat. 

Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 4 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Travelpro x Travel + Leisure UnderSeat Tote

• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

Versatile and user friendly

Easy access storage

Classically stylish design

Hard to justify the expense

The Travelpro x Travel + Leisure UnderSeat Tote features a high-density fabric that’s beautifully textured and amazingly supple. It’s treated to protect it from stains and abrasions and features genuine leather details that look great against a choice of timeless colors, including blue and gray. We particularly liked that the tote offers three carrying styles. You can use the dual carry handles, the removable, padded shoulder strap, or slip the rear stacking sleeve over the handle of a bigger suitcase.

The tote also features a QuickSlip front pocket with magnetic closure to keep essentials within reach. A zipper on the back provides direct access to a padded sleeve for 15-inch laptops and two interior pockets. Unfortunately, we could not fit everything on our packing list and still find room for a laptop—but, due to its small size, the tote fits easily beneath our simulated airline seat. We did think it was somewhat pricey; however, a limited lifetime warranty may make the investment worthwhile for some.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 9.25 x 9 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds | Capacity: 22 liters

Best Lightweight

Travelpro carry-on travel tote bag.

• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Functionality 3.5 /5

Roomy interior

Diverse choice of colors

Too bulky for small aircraft

If you’re looking for a more affordable underseat tote from Travelpro, the Maxlite 5 is an excellent alternative. It features a DuraGuard-coated polyester in colors ranging from practical black to options such as slate green, orchid, or ensign blue that are guaranteed to stand out from the crowd. We love that the tote looks small but is surprisingly spacious. We were able to fit everything on our list, including a laptop, with ease. There are pockets inside and several on the outside, too (although these are relatively small).

Being able to pack a lot has its downsides, though. We were not able to fit this tote beneath our simulated airline seat. However, this would likely not be a problem on bigger planes or airlines. The bag is lightweight and comfortable to carry in front or to the side of your body. We also appreciated that it has a detachable, padded strap and a rear stacking strap for connecting it to your suitcase. Like all Travelpro bags, it has a limited lifetime warranty.

Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Capacity: 28 liters

Make a practical and pretty addition to your luggage closet with the Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On . It passed our tests with nearly a perfect score and is well organized. The Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Underseat Spinner is another great piece at an even better price point, and we appreciate its cool aesthetic and external pockets.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Cabin Spinner : This bag impressed us with its smooth maneuverability. However, we could not fit it beneath our simulated airline seat and couldn’t justify the high price tag.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Carry-On : This underseater was well made, with plenty of useful compartments. However, we couldn’t fit everything on our list and found the two-wheeled design a little awkward to maneuver.

TPRC 15-Inch Smart Underseat Carry-On Luggage With USB Charging Port : We liked the storage features of this suitcase. However, the zippers were a little rough, it was awkward to turn, and the handle, which felt flimsy, did not lock at different height settings.

Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater : This bag shone for its generous capacity and clever compartments. However, inline wheels rather than spinners made it tricky to maneuver, and the handle malfunctioned during testing.

SWISSGEAR Checklite Underseat Carry-On Suitcase : We found this underseater easy to maneuver and liked how much we were able to fit inside. However, it didn’t fit under the seat, no matter which way we tried to slide it in.

Nomad Lane Bento Bag V 3.0 : We liked this bag’s generous number of compartments and found it easy to carry around. It was also visually appealing but, unfortunately, a little too overpriced to make it onto our final list.

First, we measured each bag's length, width, and depth to ensure that it matched the manufacturer’s dimensions. Then, we packed it with items for a two-day trip, taking note of available storage and organization features and whether we fit everything in. Once the bag was packed, we took it through an obstacle course to simulate a busy airport or station. Where relevant, we rolled it backward and forward at multiple speeds to test the wheels and handle. Finally, we placed bags into a simulated underseat area to check the fit, how easy they were to get in and out, and how much legroom they left. We scored each bag for capacity, design, functionality, maneuverability, and value based on these tests.

There’s no hard and fast rule for how much underseat luggage can weigh. Some airlines base restrictions on linear measurements only. Others impose a weight limit for carry-on luggage —but these vary, as does whether or not the limit includes your underseat bag. However, it makes sense to keep underseaters as light as possible, not only from the airline’s perspective but also to save your arm and shoulder muscles. Choose a lightweight material such as nylon, polyester, or polycarbonate to keep the unpacked weight as low as possible.

To fulfill the purpose of an underseater, your bag needs to be able to fit under the seat. The tricky part is that underseat dimensions vary significantly from airline to airline and even between planes and travel classes. For example, American Airlines' policy states that underseat luggage should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches, while United Airlines allows a maximum of 17 x 10 x 9 inches. You could check the regulations of the airline you use most frequently before purchasing or opt for a soft-sided bag that allows some flex as long as it’s not overstuffed.

Again, there’s no set rule for the maximum capacity. You need to consider what you would typically pack in your underseater (Suits and a laptop? Boots and a winter jacket ? T-shirts and toiletries?) and then look for a bag that offers you just the right amount of space. You should be able to pack all your items comfortably, but bigger is definitely not better when it comes to underseaters since it still needs to fit under the seat to count as a personal item and avoid extra fees. Be aware that filling your bag to capacity could also make it too bulky to fit.

There are underseaters for almost every budget, with examples on this list ranging from under $100 to over $600. The differences between the two ends of the price spectrum are usually material quality (sometimes, spending a bit more on a well-made product will save you money in the long run) and features. It’s up to you which features you feel are worth paying more for, from integrated USB charge ports to padded laptop sleeves. Sometimes you can pay over the odds just for a brand name–again, whether that’s worth it is a personal choice.

Underseat luggage comes in many forms, from simple totes with a shoulder strap and perhaps a pocket or two to spinners with multidirectional wheels and telescoping handles. Which features to choose depends mainly on personal taste and requirements. However, we feel it's essential to have enough organization options to keep your belongings secure and accessible. And, whether you carry, wheel, or pull your underseater, the transportation method needs to work well. Optional extras range from USB charge ports to TSA locks and monogramming. 

Suitcases, totes, and backpacks marketed as “underseat” luggage are all designed to fit under most airplane seats. However, size restrictions for this type of luggage vary from airline to airline. Even the type of plane and your travel class can affect the size of the underseat space. As a general rule, though, the average size is around 16 (length) x 14 (width) x 9 (height) inches. To be on the cautious side, choose a soft-sided bag with plenty of flex, and be sure not to overpack it .

Most airlines define personal items as anything that can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you, so yes, underseat luggage counts. The caveat is, of course, that it actually fits—just because a bag says it's underseat luggage does not necessarily guarantee that it will fit beneath the seat of the particular plane you’re traveling on. It’s always a good idea to check airline restrictions in advance and measure your packed bag to be sure it complies.

Exact guidelines for cleaning underseat luggage vary from brand to brand, so you should always double-check the label. However, using a soft, damp cloth, you can usually spot-clean any superficial stains, dirt, or scuff marks. Some bags also have removable, washable liners. Luggage should always be left to dry naturally, be completely dry before being packed away, and be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

As TripSavvy’s Africa Travel expert and a regular contributor of articles covering all topics from adventure travel to traveling with kids, Jessica Macdonald has plenty of experience packing for a trip. She’s traveled to more than 50 countries across six continents—often on budget airlines with limited baggage allowances—knows the value of keeping things light and which attributes are most (and least) desirable in underseat luggage.

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No more fighting for overhead space!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Best Value Underseat Luggage

Tprc smart under seat carry-on luggage.

Best Underseat Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Travelpro maxlite 5 softside rolling underseat compact carry-on.

Best Hardside Underseat Luggage

Calpak ambeur mini carry-on luggage.

Best Underseat Luggage on Amazon

Wandf foldable travel duffel bag.

Best Backpack Underseat Luggage

Matein travel laptop backpack.

Best Weekender Underseat Luggage

Beis the mini weekender.

Best Duffel Underseat Luggage

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 40l.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test all kinds of hardside suitcases and softside luggage , along with duffels and weekender bags . We've tested luggage from more than 80 popular brands , assessing each piece for properties like the ease of using the handles and zippers, abrasion and scratch resistance, packability and maneuverability. We analyzed our testing data and used our relative expertise to find the best underseat luggage on the market now.

Start your vacation relaxation early by opting for one of our top picks for underseat luggage, and keep reading to learn all about how we made our selections and for a helpful shopping guide.

Great for family and business travel, this underseater from Samsonite has helpful features such as a laptop sleeve, mesh zipper pockets for toiletries and a USB port to charge your phone ( power bank not included). The bag has two wheels to make rolling it through the airport a breeze. If you choose to bring a checked suitcase or carry-on too, it has a luggage sleeve, so you can slide it over the handle of your larger bag.

When we tested suitcases from this collection in the Textiles Lab, Samsonite's abrasion-resistant polyester showed no signs of wear . The telescopic handle on this suitcase easily adjusts to your height, and our testers have repeatedly given the brand's handles high ratings for feeling sturdy and comfortable to grip. Some users did note that the bag looks a bit dated if you prefer a more modern style.

For under $60, this two-wheeler underseat carry-on has all the same clever features as much pricier models. With a USB charging port, plenty of organizational pockets for toiletries and smaller items and an extending telescopic handle, it's an incredible value.

We love that this affordable pick is made with a high-denier-count polyester and that it has accessible front pockets for airport essentials like your phone, boarding pass and ID. Thousands of online reviewers say the bag is perfect for shorter trips, and users appreciate that the softside material is flexible, so you can really stuff it with everything you need. It's too small to fit a laptop over 12.5 inches, but some reviewers say it's a great size for their iPads and tablets.

Travelpro was founded by a pilot who wanted to design luggage for airline personnel who are constantly on the go. Super lightweight and designed with tons of easy-access outer co mpartments, the Maxlite 5 underseat bag is a great pick for a jet setter. When you unzip the main compartment, you'll find a removable toiletries organizer that can be hung on a closet rod or in the bathroom, and there's a padded sleeve for a small laptop or tablet.

In our evaluations, luggage from this line proved to be super durable and aced our abrasion and drop tests. We also appreciated the ergonomic handles and smooth zippers. This bag comes in nine neutral and bold colors including basic black, trendy pink and the featured sage green, and you can even buy the entire collection for your own complete set. A few online reviewers noted that the luggage sleeve on the back of the bag doesn't work with larger checked suitcases that have shorter telescopic handles but shared that it fits nicely on carry-on-sized bags.

Cute and compact, this pick from Calpak's Ambeur collection is a great option for someone who doesn't want to sacrifice fashion for function. The hardside bag is made with a durable blend of polycarbonate and ABS that comes in trendy metallic shades like rose gold and silver. It performed well in our drop tests, experiencing no major dents or damages, but it did show some scuffing.

Bags from the Ambeur collection were dubbed the "tester favorite" in our Textiles Lab evaluations. Testers highlighted the comfortable grip on the telescopic handle and smooth rolling spinner wheels. The bag opens into two packing compartments: one open space for bulkier items and a zippered compartment for secure storage. There are also plenty of additional pockets to organize your smaller accessories and toiletries.

If you love to shop on vacation or load up on gifts to bring home to friends and family, you know the struggle of trying to cram everything into your carry-on bag on the way home. With this compressible duffel bag, you won't have to worry about where to put all of your new things. It zips completely into itself, morphing into a small square that takes up barely any space in your suitcase. You can easily pack it on the way, unzip the bag to fill it up and slide it under your airport seat for the trip home.

More than 4,800 Amazon reviewers have given this bag five-star ratings, highlighting how surprisingly spacious it is and sharing that they can't travel without it. Because the bag is so lightweight, it isn't as sturdy as some of our other picks and some online reviewers wish it had more structure. We still think that at just $17, the bag is a great value and a must-have for over-packers.

Convenient to carry around and small enough to stow away under your airplane seat , a travel backpack makes for a great personal item. This particular backpack has a whopping 89,000 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.7-star rating. We appreciate that it's equipped with a padded laptop compartment, tons of smaller zippered pockets, a built-in USB port (battery not included), mesh water bottle holders and a luggage strap to keep it secured to the telescopic handle of a carry-on bag.

Online reviewers have taken this sleek bag everywhere from an international adventure to a work conference, and many say they wish they would have bought it sooner. One caveat: Some reviewers note that the zippers can be a bit difficult to use, especially when the bag is packed full.

This chic mini weekender from Beis has gone viral and for good reason. The compact bag is full of features to keep your things organized like a padded laptop sleeve, a key-ring strap, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe compartment. There are metal feet on the bottom to protect the base and keep the bag upright, and the bag is structured, which gives it a nice shape. According to our testers, the sturdy design "makes it easier to rifle around in."

During our packing tests, we were able to fit an impressive amount of clothing, accessories and toiletries inside — enough for a weekend trip. However, when the bag was completely full, we did find the zippers to be difficult to open and close. When our testers tried the full-size version of the bag, they felt as though it was too bulky and preferred this mini style, which is super lightweight, the perfect size to fit under your seat on a plane.

The Patagonia Black Hole is our pick for the best overall duffel bag and has been acing Textiles Lab tests for years. This 40-liter version is large enough to pack your essential items but small enough to use as an underseat bag, as long as you don't stuff it to the brim. (It's a little wider than some airline personal item requirements.) Unlike most duffels that come with a shoulder strap, this one features carrying handles that can be converted to backpack straps, making it easy to tote around. We love that it compresses into its own pocket so you can easily store it away when you're not using it, but we found it a little difficult to compress.

The bag is made with recycled polyester ripstop material and is coated in a TPU-film laminate, so it's water-resistant and super durable. Plus, the outside of the bag is covered in daisy chains to attach extra gear, making it a great option for someone who is adventuring to a national park or hiking trail.

How we test luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test luggage of all kinds, including underseat suitcases. We test the luggage in the Textiles Lab using our standardized equipment and share the bags with consumer testers who are able to try them out on their own travels. Although we haven't tested all of our best underseat luggage picks, we were able to use our former testing data and relative expertise when making our selections. When we do test luggage in the Textiles Lab, here's what we consider:

✔️ Size and weight: This is especially important for an underseat bag, so we check the size and weight of each piece of luggage to ensure that the dimensions listed online are accurate.

✔️ Ease of use: We open and close the luggage (pictured here), rating how easy it is to use the zippers and assess features like wheels, carrying and telescopic handles and any built-in locks.

✔️ Packing: We fill each bag with a standard load of real items (pictured here), including toiletries, clothing and accessories, and we score how much the suitcases are able to hold to assess the packing capacity.

✔️ Drop testing: We fill each suitcase with a standard amount of weight and then load it into our drop tester (pictured here). We repeatedly release the suitcase from a set 3-foot height at different angles and then note any dents or scuffs that result.

✔️ Abrasion and water resistance: For softside luggage, we measure abrasion resistance by cutting a swatch of material from the bag and then placing it in our abrasion machine (pictured here), which rubs the material back and forth 15,000 times to simulate long-term use.

To evaluate water resistance, we place blotting paper sheets beneath a suitcase's zippers and pour water on top of the zippers. We weigh the blotting paper to determine how much water has seeped inside. The more the paper weighs, the less water-resistant the suitcase is.

✔️ Consumer tests: We invite consumer testers to roll each bag through our luggage obstacle course. Testers move the bags across different surfaces and around twists and turns (pictured here), lift the bag with its carrying handles and use the telescopic handles. They rate characteristics like overall appearance, ease of use, sturdiness, wheel performance and maneuverability. Some testers are able to use the bags on their own trips and then provide us with real-user feedback about their experiences, as well.

What to look for when shopping for underseat luggage

When you're shopping for a new personal item to fit under an airplane seat, here are a few things to consider:

✔️ Type: The type of underseat luggage you choose comes down to personal preference. These are some of the common styles:

• Duffel: A compact duffel typically has one open compartment for packing and carrying handles for easy toting and is great for a more adventurous trip. However, they usually don't have wheels, and you'll need to make sure you don't overstuff your duffel to ensure it fits under your seat.
• Rolling bag: This style is ideal for someone who doesn't want to carry around a bag and prefers the ease of using a suitcase with a telescopic handle and wheels. Essentially a miniature version of a larger carry-on suitcase, a rolling underseat bag typically opens into one or two small compartments with lots of organizational mesh pouches and zipper pockets. Plus, they tend to feature easy-access outer pockets for essential items.
• Backpack: Backpacks are a great option to throw over your shoulder and go. They often have separate compartments for a laptop and other electronics and are full of pockets to organize all of your things. And they're versatile, so you can bring it to work, carry it to class and tote it around your vacation destination.

✔️ Material: Most underseat bags are made of a softer material that's easy to squish and shove into a small space, but there are some styles made with hard materials.

• Softside: Soft suitcases, backpacks and duffels are typically made with synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. Nylon is super durable and water-resistant, so it can withstand regular wear and tear. Polyester isn't as strong as nylon, but it tends to be lighter weight, and bags made with polyester are often more affordable than those made with nylon.
• Hardside: If you opt for a rolling bag, you'll find that some of them are made with hard materials like ABS or polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is the most popular material for hard luggage and is lightweight and durable. ABS is even more lightweight than polycarbonate and tends to cost less, but it is less durable. Some bags use a blend of ABS and polycarbonate, which combines aspects of each for a bag that's more durable than ABS on its own but not quite as durable as solid polycarbonate.

✔️ Zippers: If you have the opportunity to try your bag out in person, we recommend opening and closing the zippers to see if they run smoothly along the track or if they're difficult to use.

✔️ Charging capabilities: Some underseat luggage styles come with built-in USB ports and the option to add a battery to charge your phone and other electronics while you're on the go. You'll need to make sure your battery meets the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations .

What is the best size for underseat luggage?

The size restrictions for a personal item or underseat bag vary from airline to airline , so what works for you on one trip may not work on another. Here are the personal item guidelines from popular domestic airlines in 2023:

• American Airlines: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• J etBlue: 17 x 13 x 8 inches
• Southwest: 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches
• S pirit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• United Airlines: 17 x 10 x 9 inches
• Virgin America: 17 x 10 x 9 inches

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst. She has covered all kinds of luggage, including the best hardside bags, softside suitcases, duffels, checked luggage, carry-ons and backpacks. Amanda tests the bags in the Textiles Lab and works with consumer testers for real-world feedback and uses her relative expertise when making picks for the best underseat suitcases.

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She’s been at Good Housekeeping for over four years, testing travel products including suitcases, packing cubes and backpacks. She has a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Underseat Luggage Size

Traveling by air? Don’t overlook the importance of underseat luggage size . With airlines enforcing stricter carry-on regulations and limited overhead compartment space, utilizing the area beneath your seat can be a game changer. Understanding the dimensions of underseat luggage is essential, as they vary between planes and airlines. In this ultimate guide, I’ll provide you with the necessary information about underseat luggage size , including a breakdown of dimensions for major airlines and tips for choosing the best underseat luggage .

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the specific underseat luggage size requirements for your flight to ensure compliance.
• Different airlines have varying restrictions on underseat luggage size, so check with your specific airline.
• Variation in underseat luggage sizes is influenced by airplane design and cabin configuration .
• Consider factors such as compactness, travel-friendliness, and space-saving features when choosing the best underseat luggage .
• Utilizing underseat luggage maximizes packing efficiency and provides easy access to essential items during your flight.

Major Airlines’ Under Seat Luggage Restrictions

Different airlines have varying restrictions on underseat luggage size. It’s important to check with your specific airline to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues during your journey. Here is a breakdown of the underseat luggage dimensions for some major airlines:

Please note that these dimensions are subject to change, and it’s always best to verify with the airline directly. Additionally, weight limits may apply, so be sure to check the specific restrictions for your chosen carrier.

By understanding the underseat luggage size requirements of major airlines, you can select a bag that meets the acceptable dimensions. This will help ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid any complications or delays when boarding the plane. Remember to check for any updates or changes to the regulations before your flight to stay informed and prepared.

Why Do Underseat Luggage Sizes Vary?

The variation in underseat luggage sizes is primarily due to the design of the airplane and the cabin configuration . Airlines operate different aircraft models from manufacturers such as Boeing, Bombardier, Airbus, and Embraer, each with their own specifications. Even within the same aircraft model, different configurations can result in slight differences in underseat dimensions. The lack of a universal standard for underseat luggage size has led to the current range of measurements. While there have been proposals for a standardized size, no consensus has been reached thus far.

It’s important to note that airplane design and cabin configuration also play a significant role in determining underseat luggage sizes. For example, certain aircraft designs may have narrower or shorter underseat compartments, limiting the space available for passenger belongings. Cabin configurations can also impact underseat dimensions, as airlines may opt for different seating layouts that affect the available storage space.

To illustrate the variation in underseat luggage sizes, here is a comparison table showcasing the dimensions for different airlines:

As you can see, there is no standard size for underseat luggage across different airlines. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of your chosen airline before selecting your underseat bag to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Tips for Choosing the Best Underseat Luggage

When it comes to selecting underseat luggage, there are a few key factors to consider that will help you find the perfect compact and travel-friendly bags:

• Size and dimensions: Opt for underseat luggage that meets the size restrictions of major airlines. Look for bags that are specifically designed to fit comfortably under most airplane seats, ensuring maximum space-saving potential.
• Weight: Since underseat storage is limited, it’s important to choose lightweight luggage to avoid exceeding weight restrictions and to make transport easier. Consider materials like durable nylon or lightweight polycarbonate for your bag.
• Organization: Look for underseat bags with multiple compartments and pockets to help keep your belongings organized. This will make it easier for you to access items during your journey without having to remove everything from the bag.
• Sturdiness and durability: Opt for bags that are made with high-quality materials and have reinforced handles and zippers. This will ensure that your luggage can withstand the rigors of travel and last for many trips to come.

Remember that while space-saving is important, it’s also essential to choose underseat luggage that suits your travel needs. Consider factors like style, functionality, and personal preferences to find the perfect bag for your next adventure.

Comparison Table: Popular Underseat Luggage Options

Use this comparison table as a starting point to explore different underseat luggage options. Take note of the dimensions, weight, and features that best align with your travel preferences and requirements.

By considering the size, weight, organization, and durability of underseat luggage, you can choose the best option for your travel needs. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist design or a bag with extra features , there are plenty of space-saving underseat luggage options available to enhance your travel experience.

The Importance of Underseat Luggage for Air Travel

When it comes to air travel , underseat luggage plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. With carry-on regulations becoming increasingly stringent, utilizing the space beneath your seat has become more important than ever. By packing strategically and making use of underseat storage, you can maximize your packing efficiency and avoid the need to check in larger bags.

One of the key advantages of underseat luggage is the convenience it offers. Having your essential items within reach throughout the flight can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience. Whether it’s your laptop, a book, or other personal belongings, being able to access them easily without having to open the overhead bin can save you time and reduce the stress of rummaging through your bag in a cramped space.

Furthermore, underseat luggage provides a practical solution for travelers who may not have access to overhead compartments. Overhead bin space can fill up quickly, especially during busy flights, and there is no guarantee that you’ll be able to secure a spot for your carry-on. By utilizing the space beneath your seat, you can ensure that your belongings are safe and secure throughout the duration of your flight.

Table: Benefits of Underseat Luggage for Air Travel

By understanding the dimensions and requirements of underseat luggage, you can make the most of this storage option and streamline your air travel process. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just looking to make your journey more convenient, underseat luggage is a practical solution that can enhance your travel experience.

Factors Influencing Underseat Luggage Restrictions

When it comes to underseat luggage restrictions, there are several factors at play. These include safety regulations , emergency evacuation procedures, and airline policies . Understanding these factors is crucial for both passengers and airlines to ensure a safe and efficient travel environment.

Safety regulations are the primary driver behind underseat luggage restrictions. In the event of an emergency evacuation , it is critical that passengers can quickly and easily exit the aircraft. Any items that stick out from under the seat can impede evacuation, causing delays and potentially endangering lives. Therefore, flight attendants are stringent about enforcing the limitations on underseat storage.

Additionally, airline policies contribute to the variation in underseat luggage restrictions. Airlines have different approaches to maximizing space and ensuring a smooth flow of operations. The size of underseat compartments can vary depending on factors such as seat design and the need to accommodate essential onboard equipment. Therefore, it’s important for passengers to adhere to these restrictions and follow the guidelines set by the airline they are traveling with.

In summary, safety regulations , emergency evacuation procedures, and airline policies are the key influencers when it comes to underseat luggage restrictions. Passengers must follow these restrictions to maintain a safe and efficient travel environment. By understanding and adhering to these factors, both passengers and airlines can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

The Benefits of Using Underseat Luggage

Using underseat luggage offers several advantages that can enhance your travel experience. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. Maximizing Overhead Bin Space

One of the biggest advantages of using underseat luggage is that it allows you to maximize the available space in the overhead bins. As carry-on regulations become stricter and overhead compartments fill up quickly, having your essential items stored beneath the seat in front of you can free up valuable space for other passengers’ belongings. By utilizing the underseat area, you can help ensure a smoother boarding process and reduce the risk of having to check in your carry-on due to space constraints.

2. Stress-Free Travel

Traveling with underseat luggage can significantly reduce stress during your journey. With your personal items conveniently stored within reach, you won’t have to constantly get up and access the overhead bins. This is especially beneficial during long flights, as you can easily access your electronics, snacks, and other essentials without disturbing your neighboring passengers. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about your underseat luggage being moved or misplaced by other passengers, providing peace of mind throughout your travel experience.

3. Easy Access to Essential Items

Having your essential items stored in underseat luggage allows for quick and easy access throughout your flight. Whether it’s a book, headphones, or a travel pillow, you can keep everything within arm’s reach, eliminating the need to rummage through the overhead bins. This not only saves time but also allows you to create a more comfortable and enjoyable journey.

In summary, using underseat luggage provides benefits such as maximizing overhead bin space , ensuring stress-free travel , and easy access to essential items. By taking advantage of this often-overlooked storage option, you can optimize your air travel experience and make your journey more convenient and enjoyable.

The Bento Bag features an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap that provides flexibility in carrying options, whether you prefer to carry it as a tote or wear it as a crossbody bag. The bag’s thoughtfully designed tech organizer compartments ensure easy access and organization of smaller items, such as chargers, cables, and headphones, making your journey more convenient and stress-free.

What sets the Bento Bag apart is its commitment to ethical manufacturing practices. The bag’s premium LWG-certified leather handles not only exude sophistication but also represent a conscious choice for responsible travelers. By choosing the Bento Bag, you support sustainable manufacturing and contribute to a more eco-friendly travel experience.

Key Features of the Bento Bag:

• Dimensions that align with major airline underseat requirements.
• Adjustable, detachable shoulder strap for versatile carrying options.
• Tech organizer compartments for easy access and organization of smaller items.
• Premium LWG-certified leather handles for a stylish and ethical choice.

Elevate your travel experience with the Bento Bag by Nomad Lane. Embrace the convenience, style, and ethical sensibility of this underseat luggage, and embark on your next journey with ease.

Choosing the Right Carry-On: Factors to Consider

When it comes to selecting the perfect carry-on luggage, there are several important factors to consider. From airline policies and compatibility to features and ethics , making an informed decision will ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

Airline Policies

Before purchasing carry-on luggage, familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the airline(s) you frequently fly with. Each airline may have different size and weight restrictions, so it’s crucial to choose a carry-on that meets their requirements. By adhering to these policies, you can avoid any potential issues or additional fees during your journey.

Compatibility

Ensure that your carry-on luggage is compatible with your travel needs. Consider factors such as the size of overhead compartments and underseat storage on the type of aircraft you typically fly on. Opt for a carry-on that fits within these dimensions, providing you with maximum space utilization without compromising on comfort.

Look for carry-on luggage that offers practical and convenient features to enhance your travel experience. Consider features such as multiple compartments for easy organization of your belongings, durable wheels for smooth navigation, and TSA-approved locks for added security. Additionally, features like expandable storage and detachable daypacks can be valuable additions to your carry-on.

For those who prioritize ethical manufacturing practices, select a carry-on luggage brand that aligns with your values. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade or sustainability initiatives that ensure responsible production processes. By choosing an ethically made carry-on, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that your purchase supports environmentally and socially conscious practices.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right carry-on luggage for your travel needs. Remember to check airline policies, prioritize compatibility and features, and opt for an ethical brand. With the perfect carry-on in tow, you’ll be well-prepared for your next adventure!

Understanding the dimensions and requirements of underseat luggage size is crucial for a smooth air travel experience. By familiarizing yourself with the specific restrictions of major airlines, you can ensure optimal case fit and avoid any potential issues during your journey. Utilizing the space beneath your seat offers several advantages, including maximizing overhead bin space and convenient access to your essential items.

When choosing the best underseat luggage , consider factors such as size, weight, storage compartments, durability, and mobility. By selecting the right option, you can enhance your travel experience and make the most of your journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we have provided you with a breakdown of major airlines’ restrictions on underseat luggage size, explained the reasons behind the variation in dimensions, and offered tips for choosing the best underseat luggage. We have also highlighted the importance of underseat luggage in air travel and discussed the factors influencing these restrictions.

Remember, the Bento Bag by Nomad Lane is an excellent choice for underseat storage. It not only meets major airline requirements but also combines style, functionality, and ethical manufacturing practices. With the Bento Bag, you can travel in style, convenience, and with peace of mind, knowing that you have chosen a responsible and optimal underseat luggage solution.

Are the dimensions of underseat luggage the same for all airlines?

No, the dimensions of underseat luggage vary between different planes and airlines. It’s important to know the specific requirements for your flight.

Why do underseat luggage sizes vary?

The variation in underseat luggage sizes is primarily due to the design of the airplane and the cabin configuration. Different aircraft models and configurations result in slight differences in underseat dimensions.

What should I consider when choosing underseat luggage?

When selecting underseat luggage, consider factors such as size, weight, storage compartments, durability, and mobility.

What are the benefits of using underseat luggage?

Utilizing underseat luggage allows you to maximize overhead bin space, have convenient access to essential items, and enjoy stress-free travel experiences.

Why are there restrictions on underseat luggage?

Underseat luggage restrictions are influenced by factors such as safety regulations and airline policies. Airlines prioritize passenger safety during emergency evacuations, and sticking out items may pose a hazard. Restrictions also account for seat design and the need to accommodate essential onboard equipment.

What is the Bento Bag by Nomad Lane?

The Bento Bag by Nomad Lane is an innovative underseat luggage option designed to fit under most standard U.S. airline seats. It combines style, functionality, and ethical manufacturing practices.

What factors should I consider when choosing carry-on luggage?

When selecting carry-on luggage, consider factors such as airline policies, compatibility , features, ethics , and carry-on dimensions .

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• Explore Different Types of Backpacks with Me Today.
• Can I Bring Perfume on a Plane? Your Flight-Friendly Guide.
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The 8 best underseat luggage of 2024.

Save overhead bin space with carry-on bags that fit under the seat.

The Best Underseat Luggage

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If you've flown recently, you know there's often a rush to board to get your carry-on bag a slot in the coveted overhead bins – and multiple announcements asking travelers to gate-check their bag to help reduce the number of luggage items in the overhead space. If you want to avoid the problem and keep your luggage with you, an underseater is an ideal option.

Designed to fit under the seat in front of you on a plane or train, underseat luggage comes in a variety of styles, including hard- and soft-sided mini suitcases, backpacks, totes, and briefcases. What's more, depending on airline luggage size requirements , these bags are considered a personal item with most airlines, so you'll save on carry-on or checked bag fees, and have continuous access to everything you pack in your carry-on bag .

To help narrow the options, U.S. News editors and trusted travel experts researched and shared their favorite bags that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.

The Top Underseat Luggage of 2024

U.S. News editors researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best underseat luggage.

Best Overall: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Backpack: ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L

Best briefcase: vera bradley underseat rolling work bag, best tote: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on rolling tote, best wheeled: samsonite spinner underseater with usb port, best expandable: biaggi lift-off expandable underseater to carry on, best hard-sided: calpak hue mini carry-on, best budget: tprc 15-inch smart under seat carry-on.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Courtesy of CALPAK

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds | Colors: Oatmeal, chocolate and rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited two-year

What sets it apart: Lightweight and constructed with a matte-finish polyester fabric, this small carry-on suitcase has organizational features that make it stand out from the rest. The spacious interior compartment includes a padded laptop sleeve (which holds up to a 13-inch laptop), a mesh slip pocket, a removable mesh zipper pocket and two additional small zipper pockets.

On the outside, there's a large front zip pocket for reading material or other documents, and a side zippered pocket ideal for a phone cord, writing utensils, earbuds or other small items you may want to reach midflight. The trolley sleeve allows you to attach this underseater to a larger carry-on or a checked rolling bag once you reach your destination.

Expert review: I love the stylish appearance of this particular design, along with the thoughtful design details like the two exterior zippered compartments, which are great for small items I want to reach easily while traveling. It is easy to slide under the seat in front of me, and I also really like this bag's laptop sleeve, as it is especially useful for a quick business trip or when I'm traveling and planning to work remotely. Despite its compact size, it can comfortably fit 2-3 days of clothing (even more if I use compression packing cubes), and it handles well in airports and hotels on multiple types of surfaces.

Price: $165 or less Shop now: CALPAK

Dimensions: 13 x 19 x 7 inches | Weight: 0.74 pounds | Colors: 12 options, including red and yellow Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 90 days

What sets it apart: This carry-on backpack works as both an underseater and a daypack. It has multiple zippered compartments to keep things organized and secure, including two side mesh pockets for a water bottle and umbrella. Constructed with a lightweight nylon resistant to tears and water, this bag comes in a variety of colors such as orange or green. What's more, the packable backpack can also be folded up into a small pouch and put into a carry-on or checked bag , so it's perfect to stow in your bag to use as an underseater on the way home for all of finds you purchased on your journey.

Expert review: "The ZOMAKE backpack is a compact carry-on option that easily fits under a plane seat," says Erin Evans , managing editor at U.S. News & World Report Travel. "I've had two of these backpacks (in two different colors) for years – they last, they're affordable, they're versatile and they can fit a surprising amount of stuff."

Price: $21.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Vera Bradley

Dimensions: 14 x 17 x 9 inches | Weight: 6.49 pounds | Colors: Black, botanical paisley and enchanted mandala blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited five-year

What sets it apart: For a true office-on-the-go setup, this bag checks the boxes. The front compartment has a laptop sleeve and mesh pockets for work essentials. There are exterior zip pockets for earbuds, writing utensils and other meetings-in-transit needs. Given the design, you can take out all your belongings for work without going into the main compartment, where clothing and personal items can be stowed.

The inside has a removable lining for cleaning, two compression straps, a mesh zip pocket and a slip pocket for a USB battery pack (sold separately). There's a lock to keep contents secure and a trolley sleeve to attach the underseater to a full-size carry-on.

Travelers appreciate: Commuters like this bag because they can fit clothing for two to three days along with a laptop and other work necessities. The two wheels help the briefcase easily glide under the seat on an airplane, though some note it would be nice if the bag had four spinner wheels instead. Many note it is a go-to bag for travel because of its organizational features and ease of use.

Price: $200 or less Shop now: Vera Bradley | Amazon

Courtesy of Travelpro

Dimensions: 16.25 x 15.5 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 5.4 pounds | Color: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

What sets it apart: This bag is constructed of a water-resistant polyester exterior and lined with a fabric made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. The interior compartment has space for clothing and essentials for a quick overnight business trip or a weekend getaway . For quick access, the front panel opens to reveal a mesh pocket for smaller items; an internal breakaway snap feature helps keep the flap secure, so you don't spill all of the bag's contents onto the airport floor. There's also a front zippered compartment for electronics and your boarding pass, along with a back trolley strap to secure it to a larger rolling bag.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight yet sturdy handle is one of the features travelers like about this bag. They also appreciate its sturdy construction, its ability to fit in the overhead bin on smaller planes (where it is too large to go under the seat), and the high-performance wheels.

Price: $129.99 or less Shop now: Travelpro | Amazon | Kohl's

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Courtesy of Samsonite

Dimensions: 13.8 x 16.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Colors: Black, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited three-year

What sets it apart: The spinner wheels and integrated charging port really set this carry-on bag apart. Designed to fit under most airline seats, the interior compartment has space for one to two days' worth of clothing, a laptop and tablet sleeve, and mesh pockets. Other features include a zippered exterior pocket with organizational features, a side zippered pocket with charging port access (personal charging device not included) and a luggage trolley sleeve.

Expert review: "I'm a big fan of the durability of the Samsonite underseater," says James Smith, founder of Travel-Lingual . "I've spent a ton of time on the road, so I know how important it is to have a dependable bag." He says the bag is built to last and that, while it doesn't have a dedicated laptop compartment, the laptop sleeve works well for travel.

Andre Robles, general manager at Voyagers Travel Specialists , says, "The Samsonite wheeled underseater stands out as my top recommendation due to its winning combination of style and practicality." He adds that the bag is versatile for business and leisure travel, fits well under the seat, and provides easy access to your belongings during the journey.

Price: $145 or less Shop now: Samsonite | Amazon | Zappos

Dimensions: 15 x 14.5 x 7 inches; 22 x 14.5 x 7 when extended | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Colors: Black, gray or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited five-year

What sets it apart: If you're looking for versatility, this underseater expands to a 22-inch carry-on size – perfect for creating space to bring those souvenirs home from your trip. Featuring a durable and water-resistant construction on a four-wheel spinner base with a retractable aluminum trolley handle, this carry-on fits under an airplane seat when not expanded.

The interior compartment includes a padded laptop sleeve (for devices up to 13.5 inches), two inner mesh zippered pockets and elastic tie-down straps. For added organization, the exterior has four zippered pockets, including two side pockets, making small essentials easy to find. If you need additional space, the expanded section has an interior zipper you can close for two separate compartments or leave open for one larger packing space.

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this 2-in-1 style rave about the expandability options. They also appreciate that the bag is lightweight, durable, and easy to put under the airplane seat or in the overhead bin when made larger.

Price: $254.99 or less Shop now: Biaggi | Amazon

Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 6 pounds | Colors: Seven options, including coral, cream and brown Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited two-year

What sets it apart: This cube-shaped polycarbonate design offers a compact yet spacious interior space for three to five days of clothing and necessities. The zippered interior divider keeps the contents in place, and there are multiple pockets for smaller items. The bag also has a built-in TSA-accepted lock, spinner wheels and a retractable handle. For easy maneuverability, there are top and side handles to pull the bag out from under the seat or to place in an overhead bin.

Expert review: If I'm not taking my laptop, this bag is my go-to for quick trips. Since I have lifting restrictions, this underseater glides easily under the seat, so I don't have to try to get it in the overhead bin (which also saves on baggage fees). I have the poppy (coral) color, and I absolutely adore it! I use compression cubes to fit up to six days of clothing inside this bag, and even when fully packed it glides along moving walkways, sidewalks and airports like a charm. While the handle doesn't feel extremely strong, I'm able to trolley another packed tote with no problem.

Dimensions: 14 x 15 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Colors: Black, navy, brown or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 30-day

What sets it apart: Compact and smartly designed, this underseater has two exterior zippered pockets for easy access to earbuds, reading material or your boarding pass. The interior has a removable clear zippered bag for TSA-compliant toiletries, plus two additional zippered compartments for smaller travel items. For easy access, there's a side slide pocket with a built-in port for a USB charger (sold separately) to charge your phone on the go. It also has a trolley sleeve so it can be used as a personal item in addition to a rolling carry-on bag.

Travelers appreciate: Given its compact design, buyers of this bag like that it fits more than it appears it would hold. They also appreciate that it fits under the seats of even small planes where overhead bins are extremely small. Most note that it is extremely well constructed for the price.

Price: $59 or less Shop now: Amazon

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood rarely checks a bag and likes to have her suitcase within reach while in flight. She has traveled extensively with the CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini and the Hue Mini , both of which she likes to maximize the interior space with compression packing cubes. To curate this list, she used her personal experience, research and retail merchandising background.

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The 10 Best Underseat Luggage for Travelers [2023]

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Things To Consider With Underseat Luggage

1. high-end underseater, 2. bright and stylish underseat bag, 3. the big underseat spinner, 4. ultralight underseat suitcase, 5. retro-style carry-on with thoroughly modern features, 6. for those who like to travel in style, 7. great for business or pleasure, 8. designer underseat carry-on, 9. highly-durable carry-on for business travelers, 10. for easy access to your charger, final thoughts.

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Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, these little carry-on cases have been designed to fit neatly under the seat in front of you during your flight. Offering easy access to your belongings, these are an excellent alternative to traditional carry-on cases.

Varying in looks, style, and even capacity, there are many things to consider before you find the right underseat carry-on to suit your needs.

As is often the case when it comes to luggage restrictions, each airline has its own policy in regards to the acceptable size for underseat luggage. As a very general rule, most underseat luggage must be smaller than regular carry-on cases and measure around 16 x 14 x 8 inches .

Some budget airlines have recently changed their fare policies and now charge a nominal fee for stowing your carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment. Being just a few inches smaller all over, dedicated underseat bags and cases are spacious enough to be useful while still being compact enough to be classed as a free “personal item” on most airlines.

Due to their smaller dimensions, most underseat bags and cases will also be lightweight by design . With many being made from tough and durable softside material such as ripstop nylon, they probably won’t weigh more than a few pounds when empty.

You could carry your bag around with you, but why sweat the small stuff when you could wheel it around neatly behind you? Most of these cases come with smooth-rolling, multi-directional spinner wheels  and retractable handles for increased maneuverability.

With additional grab handles for easy lifting when you need to and smart straps on the back that let you slide your underseat bag over the handle of your full-size spinner, these little cases offer lots of versatility.

Pockets and Compartments

Remember, these cases are the smallest out there, so internal space in the main storage compartment will be just enough for a night or 2 away . Some of the best examples also manage to offer a healthy selection of zippered and mesh storage compartments to help keep your smaller items nice and safe.

External pockets are also a must, as you will want to be able to access your passport, boarding pass, phone, wallet , and other essentials as quick as a flash in transit.

Hot Tip: If you are planning to work while you are away, definitely look for an underseat case that has a dedicated and padded laptop pocket or compartment to keep your electronics safe.

Additional Features

Some bags come with clever additional features that add value and increase convenience. Dedicated shoe pockets, for example, are designed to keep your dirty shoes separate from your clean clothing, and other storage solutions such as organizer panels, card slots, and even key chains just make it easier to stay well-organized.

For tech-loving travelers, USB ports offer a quick and easy way to charge up your devices in transit , but remember that you will need to provide your own power bank along the way.

The 10 Best Underseat Luggage for Travelers

Samsonite underseat carry-on spinner.

This underseat spinner case is made by the luggage giants at Samsonite and comes with all the high-end features you would expect. Offering spacious interior dimensions, this case is made from high-quality, durable material and comes in a selection of eye-catching colorways.

Measuring 16.5 x 13.75 x 9 inches, it fits the luggage size restrictions perfectly, and with a built-in USB port, you can keep your devices charged along the way (power bank not included).

On the inside, it offers a padded laptop compartment that has enough space to comfortably house laptops measuring up to 13.3 inches, and the large mesh pocket and multi-compartment divider make it easy to keep your belongings well-organized.

With easy-to-reach, quick-stash exterior pockets, you can keep your most needed items close at hand, and the multi-directional spinner wheels and push-button handle make it easy to silently wheel this case alongside you through the terminal.

What We Like

• It is the perfect size for air travel

What We Don’t Like

• The wheels feel a little flimsy

Lily Bloom Designer Rolling Under Seat Bag

This beautiful rolling case comes in a variety of eye-catching designs and is the perfect size for stashing under your seat. Measuring up at 15 x 14 x 9 inches, it is the perfect size to sit under your airplane seat or in the overhead compartments. The spacious interior has been designed to maximize your packing power while still being compact, lightweight, and easy to carry.

With a roomy main pocket, there is plenty of space to hold your shoes and clothing, and with a couple of additional interior pockets, you can neatly store your toiletries and personal items.

The exterior has a further selection of zipper pockets to access your passport and other travel documents easily, and the handy grab and telescopic handles provide the option to carry or roll the case behind you.

• Has a built-in panel for toiletries
• The handle feels thin

American Tourister 4 Kix Expandable Underseater

Weighing in at just 7 pounds, this underseat spinner from American Tourister features a spacious interior and lots of useful exterior packing pockets. With an impressive amount of interior packing space, this underseat spinner case lets you pack everything you need for a few days away, and the 18 x 14 x 8-inch dimensions ensure that it is suitable for use on most domestic and international airlines.

With a deep main compartment with a mesh modesty pocket for your personal items, as well as compression straps to keep your clothes wrinkle-free, this case can also expand to give you extra inches when you need them the most .

The large front panel pocket offers easy access to your most used items, and the 360-degree spinner wheels ensure that you can roll it silently along beside you. The push-button handle lets you turn the case on a dime, and the lightweight yet sturdy construction makes this an excellent choice for frequent flyers.

• The compact dimensions
• The zipper is very stiff

Travelpro Skypro Rolling Underseat Compact Carry-On

This underseat carry-on from Travelpro measures in at 17.5 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches and weighs in at a featherlight 5.2 pounds when empty. Perfect for use on short trips and overnight stays, this case is made from stain-resistant and water-repellent polyester fabric, and with a high tensile strength zipper, it has been built to last.

With a spacious and well-designed interior, this case comes with a padded laptop/tablet sleeve that offers protection for your electronics , and a deep main compartment for your shoes and clothing.

On the outside, the separate zipper pockets are perfect for your passport, boarding pass, and other essentials, and the inline skate wheels and PowerScope handle ensure a smooth and easy roll through the terminal. There’s even a handy USB port for easy on-the-go charging.

• This model is super lightweight
• The design makes it difficult to access the interior in transit

DELSEY Paris Chatelet Soft Air Luggage Under-Seater

This lightweight polyester case with vegan leather trims is supercool and incredibly practical with super classy retro styling. The timeless chevron pattern looks stylish, and with a soft-touch red lining, this case looks way more expensive than it is.

Offering plenty of space for short trips away, this case comes with top and bottom handles for easier lifting. The recessed 1-button locking handle system offers improved maneuverability.

With a spacious main compartment, you will have plenty of room for your clothing, and the super-useful zippered pockets, elastic straps, and shoe pocket will help to keep your belongings neatly organized in transit. There’s also a hidden front pocket for easy access to your most important essentials.

This stylish and super-roomy case comes with smooth-rolling wheels and an easy-to-control telescopic handle, and also has a super useful “add-a-bag” feature that lets you attach it to the handle of larger spinner suitcases.

• This case has stunning good looks and is extremely well-made
• It’s not the most spacious underseat suitcase

Rockland Melrose Underseater Carry-on

This eye-catching and super-stylish rolling tote bag is the perfect choice for business trips and overnight stays. Made from a high-quality quilted polyester, this underseater comes in a range of colors and fashionable prints.

The spacious main compartment has plenty of room for your clothes and shoes and the 2 slip pockets and 2 zippered pockets are perfect for safely storing smaller items. Your essentials, such as your passport or cell phone, can be stored in the exterior pocket for quick access and the side mesh pockets can hold a water bottle or umbrella.

With smooth inline skate wheels and a hidden locking telescopic handle, you can pull this stylish and spacious case around with you, wherever you are headed.

• The stylish design
• The zippers could be stronger

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Tote

Offering a range of upscale features and stylish good looks, this is an excellent travel tote from Kenneth Cole . The polyester twill exterior and fully-lined interior protect your personal items from the elements, with a large main compartment, 2 open pockets, and a zippered pocket inside.

The zippered closure on the main compartment makes it easy to access the interior, while 2 additional exterior pockets provide quick access to your cell phone or travel documents. Perfect for business travel, this tote also has padded compartments for a 15-inch laptop and a separate tablet.

Measuring 17 x 13 x 5 inches, this tote will fit nicely under the seat in front of you, while still being large enough to accommodate personal items for an overnight stay.

• The main compartment is quite narrow

Steve Madden Wheeled Under Seat Bag

This classy-looking underseat bag measures 15 x 9 x 14 inches, making it the perfect size for air travel. Small enough to stash under your seat, it is surprisingly roomy on the inside and packed with practical storage spaces. Perfect for overnight trips and short stays, the large main U-shaped opening makes it super easy to access your belongings .

The stylish, practical, and fully-lined interior has plenty of room in the main compartment. With multiple zippered pockets both on the inside and outside, this designer bag makes it easy to organize your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other essential items.

The telescopic push-button handle system lets you pull the bag along behind you on high-quality wheels, and with strong top grab handles, you can easily carry this bag in your hands when you need to.

Available in a stunning teal colorway with contrasting brown accents and handles, this is a beautiful underseat carry-0n that is as stylish as it is practical.

• The high-quality design and the multiple storage compartments
• The plastic wheels are surprisingly noisy

Targus Metro Rolling Laptop Case

Made from strong and durable 1200D polyester, this soft-sided underseat case has been designed to fit neatly under the seat in front of you. With a fully-padded laptop compartment, you can comfortably keep devices measuring up to 16 inches nice and safe.

In addition, the zip-down workstation has multiple pockets, pen loops, and business card and cell phone holders , making this an excellent option for anyone who likes to work while they are away from home.

Offering an impressive amount of storage space, this compact but highly capable carry-on features a good-size main compartment, an interior divider panel, and internal zippered pockets to keep your gear organized on the go.

When not in use, the telescopic handle retracts into a zippered compartment, and the double grab handles provide a quick way of carrying when needed. The inline skate wheels will see you smoothly rolling from A to B quickly and quietly.

• The sizing is perfect
• The inner lining is a bit fragile

Verage Underseat Luggage with USB Port

Keep connected with this polyester carry-on that comes complete with a built-in USB port and space for your very own choice of power bank. Measuring in at 17 x 14 x 9 inches and weighing just 4.8 pounds, this is an excellent choice for tech-loving travelers who like to travel light.

With a water-repellent coating and an anti-scratch bottom , this carry-on is incredibly durable. With a protective laptop compartment, it is a high-quality travel accessory that you won’t want to leave home without. The spacious main compartment has enough space for your clothing, and the multiple zipper pockets and mesh compartments let you keep your belongings neatly organized in transit.

With 8 multi-directional spinner wheels and a telescoping push-button handle, this case will roll effortlessly alongside you at the airport, and the smart sleeve on the bag allows you to attach the case to your larger pieces of luggage for super-easy transportation through the terminal.

• The laptop compartment and USB port
• Due to the wheels, the bag attaches sideways when using the smart sleeve

Cute, compact, and incredibly capable, these great-looking underseat bags and cases come with the high-quality construction and upscale features you would expect from larger pieces of luggage.

With smooth wheels, telescopic handles, spacious interiors, and even USB ports, an underseat case will not only be cheaper to travel with, but it will also offer enough space for short trips away in a smaller but perfectly formed package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is underseat luggage a personal item.

Underseat luggage has usually been designed with dimensions that fit under the seat in front and fall under the personal item criteria. Of course, this does depend on the airline that you fly with. For example, American Airlines class a personal item that is 18 x 14 x 8 inches or under. It’s best to check with the airline that you are flying with.

Can a carry-on fit under the seat?

Many carry-on cases are too big to fit under airplane seats, so look for a case or bag that meets your airline’s personal item restrictions.

Will a backpack fit under an airplane seat?

There are a lot of backpacks on the market that will fit under an airplane seat. Make sure that the dimensions of the backpack do not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches. The advantage of backpacks over underseat suitcases is that there is more give in the material, and they are easier to store under the seat.

How do you pack an underseat bag?

An underseat bag is much smaller than a regular carry-on, so you must think more carefully before packing. Pack items that can be used for several outfits, leave stuff behind if you can, take travel-sized versions of things, and roll your clothes to save space.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Underseat luggage size chart for major airlines [dimensions, sizes & more] 2023.

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• August 17, 2023

Airlines Underseat Luggage Size

What is underseat luggage, what is a personal item, the difference between personal items and underseat luggage, key underseat luggage sizes to consider, factors to evaluate when choosing underseat luggage size.

• Underseat Luggage S Frequently asked Question

Underseat luggage sizes are one of the biggest mysteries when traveling by air. Airlines have varying rules about what bags and personal items can fit in that coveted space under the seat in front of you. And not all planes have the same underseat storage capacities.

The struggle to find a universal underseat size is real. Dimensions vary between airlines and aircraft – a commuter jet may have less room than a long-haul plane. Seat configuration and in-flight entertainment systems also impact usable space.

Bulkhead rows lose underseat storage for extra legroom. First-class seats potentially gain some wiggle room.  With so many variables, underseat sizes are far from one-size-fits-all.

To help make sense of the underseat size puzzle, we’ve put together key dimensions of the underseat luggage allowances for major U.S. airlines.

Underseat luggage is any bag that can fit under the seat in front of you. This includes small wheeled suitcases, small backpacks , tote bags , handbags , duffle bags, messenger bags , laptop bags, camera bags, briefcases, and other similar items.

A personal item is a smaller bag that you’re allowed to bring onto the airplane in addition to your carry-on bag. It’s typically a purse, backpack, or laptop bag that fits under the seat in front of you. Airlines have strict rules concerning the size of under-seat luggage: if your personal item exceeds an airline’s under-seat dimensions, it will have to be checked, which usually means paying a fee.

The main difference between a personal item and underseat luggage is that a personal item is a smaller bag that must fit under the seat in front of you, while underseat luggage can be any bag that fits under the seat. Personal items are typically smaller and more flexible than underseat luggage, and they are subject to less strict size restrictions.

Knowing the difference between a personal item and underseat luggage is important when preparing for air travel. While personal items are smaller and subject to less strict size restrictions, underseat luggage can be any bag that fits under the seat. Always double-check with the airline’s official website before packing to ensure that your bags meet the size restrictions.

The dimensions for underseat luggage can vary greatly depending on the airline. However, a good rule of thumb is that a bag under 16 x 12 x 6 inches should be accepted as underseat luggage by most airlines. Some airlines have more specific size restrictions that can range from around 13 x 10 x 8 inches up to 18 x 14 x 10 inches for underseat bags.

Remember that these dimensions are approximate and can vary between airlines. Some airlines might allow slightly larger dimensions, while others might have stricter size limits.

• Airline Regulations: Check the specific size requirements for carry-on bags, both for overhead bins and underseat storage, for the airlines you plan to fly with. Airlines often provide these details on their websites.
• Personal Needs: Consider what items you’ll be carrying and whether you need more space. If you’re just carrying essentials for a short trip, a smaller bag might suffice. If you need to carry a laptop, documents, and more, a slightly larger bag might be necessary.
• Comfort: Make sure the dimensions you choose allow the bag to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you without causing discomfort during the flight.
• Durability and Features: Pay attention to the design and features of the underseat luggage. Look for durable materials, compartments for easy organization, and additional features that suit your travel style.
• Weight: Don’t forget to consider the weight of the bag itself. Many airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, so choose a bag that leaves you enough weight allowance for your belongings.
• Flexibility: Aim for a bag with a little flexibility in its dimensions. This can be helpful if you encounter situations where the bag needs to fit into a slightly different space.

It’s crucial to check with each airline you’ll be flying with to determine their exact size limitations for underseat luggage before purchasing a bag . Restrictions can differ considerably between airlines. Checking an airline’s website in advance and opting for an adjustable underseat bag that allows some flexibility in sizing can help ensure your luggage complies with policies and fits under the seat during your flight.

Underseat Luggage Si Frequently asked Question

What happens if an under-seat bag is too large?

If your underseat bag exceeds the airline’s published size restrictions for underseat luggage, there are a few possible outcomes:

• You may be asked to check the bag at the gate rather than bring it onboard. This could result in a checked bag fee.
• If the bag still fits within the airline’s standard carry-on dimensions, you may be able to place it in an overhead bin instead of under the seat. Overhead space is often limited, so this is not guaranteed.
• Some airlines may allow slightly oversized underseat bags if space permits. But be prepared to check the bag if told it won’t fit under the seat.
• You could be charged an additional fee to bring an oversized underseat bag onboard as a carry-on item. Policies vary by airline.

The best approach is to ensure your underseat bag adheres to the airline’s published size restrictions in advance to avoid issues. If it is non-compliant, be ready to check it or pay extra fees. But in some cases, an oversized underseat bag may still fit in the overhead bin.

How strict are airlines about personal item size?

Airlines can be strict with personal item size, as they have specific size restrictions for underseat luggage that must be followed. It is important to check with the airline you are flying with to determine their specific size restrictions for underseat luggage.

Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?

Airlines do not have a preference for hard or soft luggage for underseat storage. The most important factor is that the luggage fits within the size restrictions for underseat storage

What is the easiest luggage to travel with?

The easiest luggage to travel with is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, some features to consider when choosing underseat luggage include excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options

What can’t you put in a personal item bag?

The items that are not allowed in a personal item bag vary depending on the airline and the country you are flying to.

However, in general, items that are not allowed in a personal item bag include weapons, explosives, flammable items, and liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).  It is important to check with the airline you are flying with to determine their specific restrictions for personal item bags.

Related Reading: The Solo Traveler’s Guide to Under Seat Luggage Dimensions

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The best underseat cabin bags for avoiding airline baggage fees

By Chelsea Dickenson and Lauren Burvill

Gone are the days where a carry on bag simply meant a small suitcase that you can wheel onto the plane and store in the overhead bin. Instead, especially when travelling short haul in Europe, you rarely get more than an underseat bag included in your fare for free, and even then you have to make sure it fits in the strict measurements for your specific airline. While it can be a headache to navigate these rules, the good news is that there are plenty of bags on the market that make life easier for you. Here are my top picks when it comes to the best underseat carry on bags for budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet.

How we choose the underseat cabin bags

Every bag on this list has been independently tested and reviewed by budget-travel expert Chelsea Dickenson of Cheap Holiday Expert , as well as our in-house editors. When testing these bags, we look for function, design features, quality and overall value for money.

• Best all rounder: Cabin Max Travel Bag
• Best for maximum packing space: Decathlon 20L Bag Essential
• Best for quality: Antler Chelsea Overnight Bag
• Best under seat suitcase: Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel Suitcase
• Best under seat backpack: Lossga Backpack with USB Charging Port

Cabin Max Travel Bag

When I asked others for underseat carry on bag recommendations, the Cabin Max range was the response I heard numerous times. This makes sense when you realise that the company truly understands the plight of bargain hunting travellers and so have created a line where each backpack meets the exact maximum measurements for the specific airline that you’re flying. In addition, their bags feature multiple pockets (including one for a laptop and bottle), adjustable ‘packaway’ straps and air mesh padding. There’s a 3 year warranty too.

The only downside is that if you opt for a larger bag – say the easyJet size – it probably won’t fit in the baggage sizer for either Ryanair or Wizz Air. However, you could always opt for a Ryanair sized bag to make sure you’re sorted for all options in the future. Chelsea Dickenson

• Ryanair Size: 40 x 20 x 25cm – Fits on: Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet
• Wizz Air Size: 40 x 30 x 20cm – Fits on: Wizz Air and easyJet
• easyJet Size: 40 x 36 x 20cm – Fits on : easyJet

Decathlon 20L Bag Essential

You might have seen the ‘ viral Ryanair bag ’ doing the rounds on social media but I think this bag is better. For one, it’s cheaper at just £6.99, and the shoulder strap is going to make carrying this bag a lot easier than hauling around a bag by just its handles. Originally created as a gym bag to separate your workout gear from your shoes, the two compartments work just as well for travel. Plus, all Decathlon products come with a two-year warranty, so while it may not be the best quality bag, you’ll be covered for your next few trips at least. CD

• Size when folded: 23 x 20 x 10 cm
• Size unfolded: 40 x 23 x 20 cm
• Fits on: Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet

Antler Chelsea Overnight Bag

It might be called an overnight bag, but if you pack strategically Antler's Chelsea bag can easily work as a weekender bag. I travelled with it on a recent trip to Barcelona and was able to comfortably fit a weekend's worth of clothes and toiletries. Although if you need to pack extra shoes, there's room for a pair of flip flops but little more. If you're a frequent flyer, this is a worthy investment – in addition to numerous internal and external pockets and compartments, including a laptop sleeve and a water bottle pouch, it also has an over-handle sleeve, making it an ideal option to take on a long-haul flight . The bag is made in a durable water-resistant nylon and comes in nine different colour options, which of course match their Chelsea suitcase range . See our full Antler Chelsea overnight bag review for more. Lauren Burvill

• Size: 41.5 x 26 x 18cm
• Fits on: easyJet

Lossga Backpack with USB Charging Port

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from reviewing small cabin bags is that they can get surprisingly heavy if you fill them to the brim! If you'd prefer to avoid heavy shoulder straps, an underseat backpack is the better option. I can’t get over just how many features this pack from Lossga has, including multiple pockets, a laptop sleeve, compression straps, a 180 degree ‘clamshell’ opening, and even a USB port for you to connect your own portable battery pack to.

For the price, it looks good – the outer material has a shine to it which keeps it from looking too cheap. The inside material is less lux, but it’s practical nonetheless. Overall, it’s a fantastic bag for the price and one of my top picks. CD

• Size: 40 x 20 x 25 cm

Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel Suitcase

If you hate the thought of hoisting a heavy bag along with you for your holiday; don’t worry. There are only a few hardshell suitcases that will fit the small underseat carry on bag allowance but they do exist. Like Cabin Max, Flight Knight are a company that have noticed a need for luggage that fits exact requirements and so you can opt for one of their suitcases which is the exact size for Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyjet.

The case has an anti-scratch water resistant outer shell and comes with a three-digit combination barrel padlock for added security. It also has a five-year warranty. If space is important to you, do note that the Ryanair sized suitcase is only 16L – meaning you miss out a huge 4L compared to many of the soft bags! However, what you lose in packing ability, you absolutely make up for in comfort and ease. CD

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

VMIKIV Underseat Carry On Bag

Most small carry on bags have quite a practical look to them, and yet this bag could easily pass as a casual day bag as well. I really liked that it was double lined, with several pockets on the inside and out, and I was surprised to find a padded laptop sleeve inside too – my 13” laptop fit in with plenty of room to spare. Other perks include the reinforced handles, a shoulder strap and a strap across the bag that allows you to slot your suitcase handle through it should you be travelling with that too.

The only drawback is that whilst it states it’s the same size as others, I couldn’t fit as much in as the other bags I tested. However, it’s a great option if you’re packing light and need a daily bag to carry your laptop around in too. CD

Lossga Convertible Cabin Bag

I think this bag is a great compromise between style and function. It looks good while having several pockets, a suitcase handle sleeve, reinforced handles, a shoulder strap and even one ‘wet pocket’ for storing damp items – perfect if you fancy one final dip in the pool before coming home.

However, the real standout feature of this bag is a little zip at the bottom that makes the bag even bigger. Try not to overfill the bag though, as it can get quite bulky in its bigger state which means you could struggle to fit it into the baggage sizer if asked. My top tip is to measure your bag once it’s full just to double check. CD

• Extended Size: 45 x 36 x 20 cm
• Fits on: easyJet - but don’t fill it to the brim!

Take Off Personal Item Suitcase

One of the major downsides of using a suitcase is that the wheels take up a lot of space, so what if there was a suitcase where you could detach the wheels?! This is exactly what Take Off have created, meaning that many travellers have already hoodwinked airline staff by quickly removing the wheels on their cases before being asked to prove its size. CD

• Size: 45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm (18 x 14 x 8 inches)
• Fits on: The dimensions are a fraction of a cm over the allowance for easyJet (45 x 36 x 20 cm) however there is a photo on the Take Off website showing that it fits in the easyJet baggage sizer. I definitely wouldn’t overpack this case.

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

10 Best Under-Seat Luggage Pieces, Editor Tested and Reviewed

The ultimate travel hack.

Now, before you embark on this quest, there's a golden rule to keep in mind: Size is nonnegotiable here, obviously. You can occasionally stuff a backpack or tote bag partially under the seat and get away with it, but there are finite dimensions you need to shop within. According to airline policy, any personal items cozying up under those seats must play by the rules, measuring no more than 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. This challenge has sparked a sort of arms race among luggage manufacturers. They all want to make the ideal piece of gear, one that's compact yet somehow swallows half your closet.

Best for Quick Trips

Away everywhere bag.

Best Weekender Bag

July carry all weekender.

Airline Crew Approved Bag

Travelpro crew classic underseat carry-on.

The Best Mini Statement Bag

Calpak trnk mini carry-on luggage.

Best Classic Design

Hartmann herringbone deluxe underseater.

Best High-Tech Bag

Tumi compact carry-on.

Best Luxury Carry-On

Rimowa compact.

Most Compact Bag

Lipault foldable plume mini cabin.

Best Budget Bag

Samsonite underseat carry-on spinner.

Best Under-Seat Duffel Bag

Briggs & riley baseline underseat duffle bag.

As a travel writer who has ventured to over 50 countries and every continent, my journey has been a testament to the tried and tested. I've navigated the labyrinth of under-seat luggage options firsthand, pushing each contender to its limits across countless terminals, airstrips, and situations. What follows isn't just research; it's the distillation of years on the move—a quest for durability, functionality, and that elusive perfect fit beneath the seat in front of you. We've sifted through the possibilities, identifying the champions of under-seat travel gear. Here they are.

The Everywhere Bag is perfect for quick trips and everyday hustle, thanks to its smart design. Zip it open and you've got easy access to all your stuff. It effortlessly attaches to Away suitcases, especially useful when you're sprinting through an airport. Carry it with a comfy, detachable shoulder strap or grab the top handles. There's even a special spot for your 15-inch laptop and a detachable key clip for convenience. Whether you're flying off for a weekend or running off to the gym, this bag is ready to make your life a whole lot smoother.

Ready for a weekend getaway? This weekender bag is a game changer, sliding right under your airplane seat. Spacious yet sleek, it packs your essentials, including a 16-inch laptop, with style. Its QuickPass pocket and organized compartments keep everything within reach. Whether you're using the soft leather handles or the adjustable shoulder strap, comfort's guaranteed.

Plus, it's water-resistant and hooks easily onto your luggage. With premium finishes like gunmetal zips and leather trim, it's not just practical; it's a statement.

If you want to look like an off-duty pilot, the Travelpro Crew Classic Rolling UnderSeat Carry-On is a favorite among top airline crews, blending durability and smart packing. Perfectly sized to fit under most airline seats, it's made from tough fabric that resists stains and abrasions, with an eco-friendly lining from recycled plastic bottles.

It's all about smart storage here. There's a padded sleeve for laptops and tablets, side pockets for essentials, and a removable, water-resistant toiletry organizer. Glide it smoothly through terminals on high-performance wheels and easily stack it on other luggage with its rear strap. Plus, with a warranty that covers airline damage, this carry-on promises to be as resilient as it is practical.

Roll smoothly through the airport with this mini trunk... sorry, mini trnk -style carry-on. The faux-crocodile design on a durable hard shell makes it a statement piece, and the 360-degree spinner wheels make it practical.

Inside, there's no mess, just organized bliss with a buckled strap and pockets. The cushioned handle means grabbing and going has never felt better. Choose your classic color and make this compact carry-on your go-to for turning heads on every trip.

Glide through the airport with a suitcase that effortlessly fits under your seat while keeping your style on point. This classic piece features Hartmann's signature herringbone fabric, ensuring you look refined every step of the way. Inside, find a monogrammed lining with Ducord accents, a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop, and neatly arranged pockets for seamless organization.

Practicality shines with a USB port for charging on the go (battery not included), a SmartSleeve for easy attachment to larger luggage, and a TSA padlock for security. The lightweight aluminum pull handle and dual spinner wheels offer smooth handling. Designed to fit under most airplane seats, this suitcase blends the legacy of travel with today's essentials. The design is timeless, and the suitcase itself is a functional little travel companion.

This high-tech, under-seat carry-on is your ultimate travel companion for short trips. It features a secure double-zip back compartment and a special padded slot for up to a 14-inch laptop. Stay powered up with the built-in USB port and a neatly organized front pocket for your cable. It's easy to move around with a telescoping handle, four recessed wheels, and a comfortable leather-wrapped handle for lifting.

But it's not just about moving. It's about keeping everything in place while you do. Inside, find media pockets, a zip pocket for your power bank, and spaces for cards and pens, all wrapped up in lightweight nylon. The front U-zip gives you easy access to the main compartment, ensuring that this carry-on is both high-tech and highly functional, fitting perfectly under your seat.

The Rimowa Original Compact redefines luxury travel with its versatile design, perfect for daily commutes or quick one- to two-day trips. This silver marvel adapts effortlessly to your needs. Use it as a sleek wheeled briefcase or remove the interior accordion divider to convert it into a compact carry-on that fits neatly in any train or airplane luggage space. Inside, the bag is a sanctuary for your essentials, featuring a zipped compartment, multiple pockets for impeccable organization, and a generous padded section that securely accommodates laptops up to 16 inches.

The Foldable Plume luggage series is like having a travel magic trick up your sleeve. Imagine a suitcase that not only fits all your stuff but also folds down into a whisper-thin profile when you're done. Press two buttons near the wheels and voilà, it collapses, ready to slide into the slimmest of spaces—under the bed, in the closet, or anywhere else you need to stash it away.

Despite its folding superpower, this bag doesn't skimp on space or durability. It's surprisingly roomy and lightweight, perfect for those who dread lugging around heavy suitcases. Plus, it comes with a lining and PVC cover for when it's time to tuck it away, keeping it dust-free and ready for the next adventure.

This budget-friendly carry-on ticks all the boxes for savvy travelers. Designed to fit snugly under most airplane seats, it's a dream for keeping your essentials close without digging through overhead bins mid-flight. But check your airline's size restrictions just in case, as dimensions can vary.

With four multidirectional spinner wheels, this bag offers 360-degree rolling, making navigating through crowded airports a breeze. Plus, the USB port is a lifesaver for charging your devices on the move—just remember to pack your own battery.

The ergonomic push-button locking handle feels like it was made just for your hand, easing the strain of travel. For those who love to be organized, the quick-stash exterior pockets are perfect for tucking away smaller items. Inside, the main compartment doesn't disappoint, featuring a padded laptop pouch ready to protect laptops up to 13.3 inches.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Underseat Duffle Bag

This classic duffel is the perfect under-seat travel companion, combining timeless style with practical features, such as durable, self-repairing YKK zippers and a ballistic nylon exterior that withstands wear and resists moisture and dirt. You get quick access to essentials is made easy with the SpeedThru pocket, which is ideal for security checkpoints.

The interior is thoughtfully designed with a spacious main compartment, including a zip mesh pocket, and two large pockets for efficient organization. For added security, there’s a HideAway ID tag. Carrying options include a top handle and a removable, adjustable cross-body strap, making it a versatile choice for any traveler looking for convenience and style in one.

Tips for Buying Under-Seat Luggage

Check the Size: When shopping for under-seat luggage, the measurements are crucial. Always take a moment to review the dimensions provided in the product description. While some bags are advertised as being airline-approved, our experience suggests it's best to double-check. Since airlines differ in their under-seat space allowances, confirming with them directly is a smart strategy.

Consider Wheeled Bags vs. Tote Bags: For regular travelers, a wheeled under-seat bag, whether it has two or four wheels, can greatly ease your journey through bustling airports. Tote bags, devoid of wheels, are lighter and thus more suited for short trips by car or train, where space restrictions are less of an issue. Our tests revealed that both types, particularly bags with rear straps for easy attachment to larger luggage, significantly streamline the chore of carrying your under-seat item through the terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size luggage can fit under your seat?

Every airline has its own idea of under-seat space, but the max is usually 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. However, we found a sweet spot for size: 16 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. That's our go-to for testing. Most under-seat bags hover around these dimensions, but how chunky your bag ends up really depends on how much you stuff into it.

How much can an under-seat suitcase fit?

In our evaluations, we checked how much each bag could carry by packing it with essentials: two days' worth of outfits, a laptop, and a toiletry kit. Typically, an under-seat suitcase is ideal for light packing, covering just about a weekend's needs. However, the actual capacity might vary based on what kind of clothing and gadgets you decide to bring.

Why Trust Esquire?

Because no one else has the taste that we do. No one travels like we do . Personally, I have been to more than 50 countries and touched down on all seven continents. I've tested a million suitcases, and the rest of the Esquire editors have tested a million more. We test products. We award the most revolutionary home stuff . And we only recommend the things we would buy with our own money.

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Traveling with Underseat Luggage & Personal Item Bags | Travelpro

When you board most domestic flights, you can bring one piece of carry-on luggage and a personal item. What constitutes a personal item is often vaguely defined on airline websites, creating confusion among passengers. Does a purse count as a carry-on item? What about a coat or backpack? Is a carry-on considered a personal item, and if not, what’s the difference? How does the size of under-seat luggage impact what you can bring as a personal item? .

What counts as a personal item?

A personal item is any small bag that fits beneath the seat in front of you. Possible personal items include purses,  laptop bags , camera bags, totes , diaper bags, and small backpacks . Airlines have strict rules concerning the size of under-seat luggage: if your personal item exceeds an airline’s under-seat dimensions, it will have to be checked, which usually means paying a $25 to $35 fee.

Does a purse count as a personal item?

If you’re carrying a purse or handbag, it will be considered a personal item. For this reason, many people prefer to travel with large handbags or tote bags rather than purses to get the maximum use out of their carry-on allowance. The  Maxlite 5 Women's Tote  or Crew™ Executive Choice™ 3 Women’s Tote are excellent alternatives to purses if you’re traveling.

Do coats and pillows count as personal items?

Coats and pillows do not count towards your personal item allowance. In addition to your carry-on and a personal bag, you can bring a coat or jacket, a hat, reading material, a pillow, or a blanket when you board an aircraft.

What to pack in my personal bag for flying?

Once stowed in the overhead bin, your carry-on bag can’t be easily accessed during your flight. Use your personal bag to pack items you’ll want during the flight, such as tablets, books, snacks, headphones, or similar items. Once in your seat, you can take what you want for the flight out of the bag before you stow it under the seat. For more help, we recommend learning  how to pack a backpack for travel .

Is a Carry-On Considered a Personal Item?

Airlines consider carry-on luggage to be any spinner suitcase, duffel bag, or backpack that can be stored in an overhead bin. While individual airlines have varying size and weight restrictions for carry-on, in general a carry-on bag must weigh less than 35 pounds and have dimensions no larger than 10” x 16” x 24”. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you, which will not accommodate the average carry-on bag.

Related: Read the Travelpro guide to luggage and carry on bag sizes for most domestic airlines.

Under Seat Luggage Restrictions for Popular Airlines

Each airline has slightly different requirements for the size of  under-seat bags or personal items based on their planes’ under-seat dimensions. Below is a list of the under-seat luggage dimensions for the major US domestic airlines, along with information on what the airlines consider to be a personal item.

At present, domestic US airlines do not charge for personal items. The rules and fees for carry-on and personal items change regularly, so you should contact airlines directly to verify what counts as a personal item and if any new fees apply. If you’re looking for bags that match the under-seat dimensions of most airlines, check out the Travelpro under-seat luggage collection .

Related: Looking for more luggage details on a specific airline? Explore United’s carry on and personal item rules, and all other popular airline luggage guides on the blog.

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The Best Underseat Luggage of 2024

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

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Briggs and Riley ZDX Cargo Backpack

Exceptionally well designed

Built to last

Lots of storage space

None that we could find

Tom Bihn Techonaut 30

Extremely well made

Multiple fabric options

Carried as backpack or duffel

Contents might spill when opened vertically

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

Great return/repair policy

One-of-a-kind color combos

Water-resistant

Interior pockets not designed for bulky items

Away Everywhere Bag

Stylish design

Roomy interior

No instructions for magnetic locking zipper use

Interior pockets only for small flat items

Solo Westside Rolling Overnighter Case

Smooth wheels

More like a portable office

May not fit under some seats

Unusual interior configuration

Updated May 18, 2023

The recommendations in this guide are based on thorough product and market research by our team of expert product reviewers. The picks are based on examining user reviews, product specifications, and, in some limited cases, our experience with the specific products named.

The Briggs & Riley ZDX Cargo Backpack is well-made, versatile, and contains a number of design features that travelers will love.

The sophisticated, tough Briggs and Riley ZDX Cargo backpack features an organization system that increases packing possibilities rather than limiting them, unlike almost every other bag I’ve ever tried. Made from 800D ballistic nylon with a PVC coating, this backpack should hold up to moisture, dirt, and abrasion and still look great. With its 24L (1464 cubic inch) capacity, it holds lots of stuff. Unless you pack it super thick, the ZDX Cargo should fit easily beneath airline seats—it measures 18 x 12 x 8.8 inches and fit in our bag sizer packed up with our test items.

There are a number of ways to tote the ZDX Cargo around. The top of the bag has a rugged carrying handle, which is perfect for helping you to slide it out from under the seat in front of you during a flight. Its adjustable backpack straps have low-profile padding and are ergonomically designed for shoulder comfort, while its sternum strap is ready to help disperse the weight of heavy loads. A simple strap, built into the ZDX Cargo’s back panel, tucks the shoulder straps away tight against the bag when they’re not needed. Speaking of its back panel, its aerated mesh padding provides some lumbar support and helps make wearing it feel cooler and more comfortable.

Briggs and Riley outfits this backpack with a hidden ID tag that’ll keep your personal information hidden when not in use. To make the bag easy to identify as yours, the company offers free monogramming. Perhaps best of all, Briggs and Riley’s “Simple as That” unconditional lifetime guarantee means there’s no charge and no questions asked for any functional repairs.

Measuring 11.4 x 16 x 7.1-9.4 inches, the Tom Bihn Techonaut 30 is an adaptable bag designed, primarily, to be worn as a backpack. However, its backpack straps can be tucked away when not in use, allowing you to carry it in hand by its padded handle as a briefcase-shaped duffel or with an optional shoulder strap. That the backpack straps can be stowed away makes it a cinch to slide it under an airplane seat. The bag’s sternum and waist straps can be removed completely.

The Techonaut 30’s large main compartment opens wide with a double-zippered front flap. It can unzip partially for you to access items in the confined space of an airplane. There are no organizational aids inside the main compartment, save a pair of compression straps and a large zippered mesh pocket on the inside of the compartment’s flap. A zippered laptop pocket sized to hold portable computers up to 16 inches in size is accessible from the top of the bag. Other exterior pockets include a lockable compartment at the bottom of the bag that is well sized to fit a pair of shoes or a jacket. The inside panel separating this pocket from the main compartment can also be unzipped to make the main compartment even more spacious. The small pocket on the top of the bag is ideal for keeping your liquids bag handy for the TSA and includes a key leash. There’s a pocket for a water bottle plus a small pocket for providing quick access to your phone and passport.

My only concern about the Technonaut 30 is that if you try to access its contents at your feet while on the plane, you’d need to prevent the front flap from opening too wide so nothing spills out.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 28L’s interior design will suit hikers well. However, if you prefer more flexibility in how you pack, this isn’t your best choice. The 19 x 11 x 9-inch backpack fit in our sizer when packed, but filling the interior pockets made it lumpy.

Cotopaxi is a certified B Corporation that prioritizes sustainably. Using fabric remnants from other manufacturers that would otherwise be wasted, each sewer chooses their own combination when making these colorful bags. You can select a specific color combo when you order or be surprised.

When sitting on the plane, top-loading backpacks are usually the easiest for accessing your belongings. Instead, this pack opens like a book with wrap-around lockable YKK double zippers (the main zippers also have a band of fabric across them to thwart pickpockets). Inside, mesh dividers and pockets keep your belongings organized but they’re better suited for soft items like clothes rather than bulky cameras and toiletry bags. There was little room to spare when packed up with our test items. Your laptop is easy to pull out at security from the bag’s side, but the two-sectioned laptop compartment isn’t lockable. Your quart-bag of liquids would be most accessible if you stored it in the top-most interior mesh pocket. This backpack is very weather resistant plus comes with a rain cover, but there are only two external pockets and no exterior spot for a water bottle. If the bag’s design suits your needs, you’ll feel good buying from this carbon-neutral company that has fair employment practices and allocates revenue to poverty alleviation and community development.

The spacious Away Everywhere Bag (16.3 x 10.2 x 7.3-inches, which fit in our luggage sizer) is made with water-resistant nylon and can be carried either by its comfortable (and detachable) shoulder strap or with its leather handles in hand. Some people may find the leather handles are large enough to use on their shoulders.

The Everywhere Bag’s main compartment is roomy and closes with lockable double zippers (though some luggage locks might not fit very easily). Inside the main compartment, you’ll find a large zippable pocket and a few open-topped sections for flatter items like a slim wallet and business cards. There’s also an interior sleeve sized to hold a small umbrella or a slim water bottle, plus a key leash. The bag’s two-sectioned laptop sleeve will hold a 15-inch device plus an iPad-sized tablet.

One side of the exterior of the bag has a non-lockable pocket ideal for quick access to your passport and phone; the other side has a panel that slides onto the handle of a spinner suitcase.

My one complaint about this bag is that its laptop compartment is billed as having a magnetic locking zipper but I couldn’t find an explanation of how it worked.

The Solo Westside Overnighter, measuring 15 x 16.25 x 8.5 inches, looks like a briefcase on two wheels. Its design is better suited as a portable office for files and a laptop than for use as an all-purpose carry-on. The structured, polyester-covered bag weighs 8.1 pounds and feels heavy even when empty. That it’s designed to be pulled and pushed around an airport by its collapsible handle helps to offset the weight of the bag and its contents. While the wheels rolled smoothly during testing, the Westside Overnighter’s collapsible handle was a little stiff and sometimes needed extra effort to deploy properly.

This Westside Overnighter opens like a book and features two restraining straps to prevent it from falling completely open. This could make it relatively easy—for a structured suitcase—to get at items near the top of the bag’s interior or from its “quick access” exterior pocket during your flight. This bag has an unusual configuration not well suited to bulky items. You do have options to fit a laptop though. The first comes with an admin panel sewn into it for storing business cards, pens, and papers. The second laptop area is divided into two sections. Here, you’ll find a removable padded sleeve that fits laptops up to 16 inches in size as well as a flat area that could be used to store a tablet or documents. We were pleased to find that the double zippers for the bag’s three largest compartments have space to add locks. The only space for a water bottle is inside the bag, which could lead to your belongings getting wet if the bottle leaks.

If you fill the Westside Overnighter’s exterior pockets, you risk making the bag too thick to fit under the seat. Even while empty, it was a struggle to get this structured bag into our luggage sizer.

The 16.5 x 13.75 x 9-inch Samsonite Small Rolling Underseater is a cloth-covered, four-wheeled spinner suitcase with structured sides. Unfortunately, the placement of the bag’s wheels made it impossible to fit into our luggage sizer during testing. So, you’ll likely need to put it in an overhead bin on your flight. If you also have a full-sized carry-on with you, some airlines might ask you to check one of them.

Samsonite states that the Small Rolling Underseater can hold devices up to 13.3 inches in size, but most laptops are larger than that--my 12¾-inch laptop was too large to fit into this bag.

Three-year warranty

Spinner wheels roll easily

Did not fit in luggage sizer

Laptop pockets not accurately sized

Difficult to access interior items in tight spaces

The Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel is an inexpensive briefcase-shaped bag measuring 16 x 12 x 6 inches. It has a single, large interior compartment plus a small exterior pocket. The bag’s main compartment does not contain any organizational aids. So, unless you pack it full or use packing cubes, its contents will get jumbled around as you carry it or push it under the seat.

The Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel’s single exterior pocket is sewn onto a band of fabric so that you can slide the bag over the handle of a spinner-style suitcase. We liked that this bag’s double zippers are compatible with luggage locks. But this bag doesn’t come with a shoulder strap and its handles don’t have a grip guard. This means that fully loaded, the bag could be uncomfortable to carry for long periods of time.

While the Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel’s lightweight build may make it easy to fold up and store when not in use, it also suggests that it might have a shorter lifespan than the other under-seat carry-on luggage in this guide.

Folds down for storage

Spinner suitcase compatible

Poor build quality

No interior organization

Handles uncomfortable

How We Tested Underseat Luggage

If your carry-on doesn't fit into a size checker like this, a gate agent may not allow you to bring it on board. We built one ourselves to make sure that all the bags in this roundup would actually fit.

I’m Johanna Read, a freelance travel writer/photographer, and management consultant. Thanks to both jobs, I travel a couple of times a month (pre-pandemic). I might be on a tiny float plane somewhere in my home province of British Columbia, Canada, or jetting around the world for a research trip. Direct flights aren’t the norm for where I travel and I need to be on the go as soon as I land, so I almost always fly carry-on only. I’ve learned how to make travel as easy and stress-free as possible and know which gear helps and what isn’t worth the bother, price, or added weight.

To test underseat luggage, we considered a number of metrics, including if each bag will fit under an airline seat, will carry must-have in-flight essentials, and how well each bag was made.

I tested whether each bag fit in the sizer both empty and when packed with these carry-on essentials:

• a 12¾ inch laptop
• An 9.5 inch iPad in a protective case
• a smartphone, earphones, an extra battery, chargers, and cords
• a quart-sized bag of liquids and a toiletry case
• a change of socks and underwear plus a bathing suit for an on-arrival swim (just in case of delayed checked luggage)
• a pair of sunglasses in a case
• a notebook and pen
• the paper itinerary, reservation confirmations, and the boarding passes from my last trip
• my passport, wallet, and keys
• cleaning wipes
• extra N95 masks
• a bag with a few snacks
• a water bottle
• a travel pillow

While packing, I assessed the pockets and organization options of each bag for convenience and accessibility plus determined whether the bag’s design made packing easy or annoying. I packed for how I’d actually travel—both wanting to go through security smoothly and being able to access essential items on board after the bag had been tipped to fit under a seat and then pulled out to open at my feet in the limited space of an airline seat.

What to Know About Buying Underseat Luggage

There is no shortage of models and styles of bags sized to fit under the seat in front of you on an airplane. If the ones we recommend in this guide aren’t to your liking, you will want to consider a few things when you set out to buy one:

Choose styles that free your hands: personal preference plays a big role here, but keep in mind that bags that can be worn on your back or on your shoulder free up your hands for showing your documents (whether on paper and/or on your phone), removing your mask for your ID check, or carrying a cup of coffee.

Soft-sided bags offer flexibility: however, you do need to make sure you don’t pack them too thick to fit into the underseat space (if you do, shuffling items around often resolves the problem).

Avoid wheels and too much structure: the structure of wheeled bags means you can’t just shift your belongings around if the underseat space is tight. Unless you’re unable to physically carry a bag, it’s better not to waste space and weight limits on wheels and hard frames. Wheeled bags might not fit under the seat even when billed to do so, so you might need to use the overhead bin anyway, and then you’re allowed a larger carry-on suitcase. While official under-seat dimensions might indicate your structured suitcase fits, keep in mind that it might be a challenge to angle it to fit into the narrow space between your seat and the one in front of you to actually get it in place. And once it’s there, opening it up to access your stuff during your flight won’t be easy.

Carry options: Great bags have multiple handles, so you can grab and carry them the way you want whether in hand, on your shoulder, or on your back. Handles need to stand up to carrying and/or rolling your bag, even when packed heavy. If the bag comes with backpack straps, they should be padded to make wearing it more comfortable. However, too much padding can add to the bag’s weight and size. For wheeled bags, retractable handles should have multiple height settings, slide smoothly, and not take up too much space.

Build quality: Think about how much you travel before investing in a bag. Frequent flyers should consider investing in durable well-made luggage with desirable features and, if possible, a comprehensive warranty. Doing so will save you money in the long run and reduce the possibility of the luggage failing you while you’re away from home. However, if you travel infrequently, a more affordable bag with fewer features and a lesser build quality could still provide you with years of service.

Brand names: The distinctive patterns and logos of higher-end brands can signal to pickpockets and thieves you’ve got money to spare and valuables worth stealing. Consider foregoing fashion for practicality.

More Articles You Might Enjoy

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Meet the tester

Johanna Read

Contributor

Johanna Read is a freelance travel writer and photographer.

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The 10 Best Underseat Carry-On Bags for Basic Economy

See recent posts by Peter Thornton

Flying Basic Economy is not anyone’s first choice, but the savings can sometimes be too good to pass up. While most legacy carriers include a full-size carry-on bag when traveling with a Basic Economy ticket, there’s one exception; United, along with several budget airlines, that require your carry-on bag to be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and Airfarewatchdog may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Carry-On Bags That Fit Underneath Your Seat

Have a look at these 10 top-rated under-seat carry-on bags that fit the free “personal item” dimensions of carriers like Allegiant , Frontier , Flair Air , Porter , Spirit , Sun Country , Swoop , and United . Whether you like to roll your bag onboard, schlep it over your shoulder, or carry on your back, there’s a bag for every type of traveler.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 15” Lightweight Carry-On Rolling Under Seat Bag

Size: 17.5 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches

This bag is packed with organization including a padded laptop or tablet sleeve, removable toiletry compartment, and quick-access external pockets. The interior is large enough to carry what you need for a quick weekend away or an extended trip as a minimalist. Think of it as your office on wheels.

Lewis N. Clark Underseat Carry-on Backpack

Size: 18 x 11.8 x 6.5 inches  

This sleek looking backpack is designed to keep you organized while fitting all of your belongings underneath an airline seat. This backpack is made with 840D ballistic nylon so it’s able to handle any travel conditions. And the RFID blocking pocket will keep your sensitive information safe. Best of all, the bag only weighs one pound so you’ll easily be able to keep the total weight under any limits that may be imposed by the airlines. There’s also a sling style backpack if you prefer.

Insignis Underseater Wheeled Carry-On

Size: 18.3" × 14.2" × 9.5"

This compact carry-on from Samsonite not only fits beneath most airline seats but goes beyond to answer all your airport needs, from a built in USB port for your devices to a convenient sleeve to secure it to your larger luggage. With corner guards to protect against impacts and a lockable handle that can be extended and stowed as needed, you’ll whisk through the security checkpoint and easily board the plane without the need to search for overhead bin space.

Related: 10 Underseat Carry-On Bags You Can Take on Any Flight

Travelpro Platinum ®  Elite Regional Underseat Duffel Bag

Size: 10.50 x 18 x 8.25 inches

Another Travelpro favorite, Platinum ®  Elite Regional Underseat Duffel Bag is a great option for travelers who prefer a duffel style carry-on rather than rolling luggage. It has several exterior pockets, including a quick-access pocket with magnetic closure, and includes a TSA-compliant removable wet pocket for toiletries.

Olympia Deluxe Fashion Rolling Overnighter

Size: 17 x 14 x 8.25 inches  

If you’re looking for a quirky design and smart organization, this fashionable bag from Olympia may be right for you. It has a spacious main compartment and a padded laptop casing. The front zipper pocket and side velcro pockets make it easy to grab any small items you want to access quickly. Choose from several different colors and styles.

TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On

Size: 14 x 15 x 8.5 inches

This convenient bag packs a lot of storage power into a small package. With open side pockets for easy access to things like phones and chargers, several exterior zipper pockets, and clear plastic interior pouches, your belongings will stay organized throughout the entire flight. This carry-on also comes with a side USB port to charge your devices on-the-go ( power bank and cord not included).

Related: How to Choose the Perfect Suitcase

Bebamour Backpack – Travel Backpack for Women

Size: 15 x 12 x 7 inches

This backpack is packed with features like a shoulder strap safety light and an interior LED flashlight so you can easily find what you are looking for. It can also be converted into a tote bag in seconds, giving you the flexibility to have the look you want at any moment. Its roomy compartment has a padded computer sleeve and numerous pouches to keep everything organized. Connect a battery pack to the supplied cable and you’ll have an external USB charging port right on the bag itself.

Rustic Town Handmade Leather Duffel Bag – Airplane Underseat Carry On 

Size: 20 x 11.5 x 8.25 inches  

Shh…don’t tell anyone but the actual dimensions of this bag are slightly larger than what is allowed as a free “personal item” on most airlines. However, if you don’t pack this bag full to the brim, it will squeeze down to fit in any bag sizers and will always fit underneath the seat. If you’re looking for a high quality and good-looking leather bag, this handmade duffel from Rustic Town is the perfect choice.

Steve Madden Rolling Personal Item Underseat

Size: 15 X 9 X 14 inch

If you like to save money by flying on budget carriers such as Frontier or Spirit, this rolling underseat bag from Boarding Blue is a perfect choice. It easily fits the free “personal item” size dimensions of these airlines and also has a few outside pockets to keep your passport and boarding pass handy.

Related: 13 Travel Totes That Do the Most

BAOSHA Ladies Canvas Travel Weekender Overnight Carry-On Duffel

Size: 16 x 12 x 8 inches

You’ll look your best with this stylish canvas bag . It works great as a carry-on bag for travel and can also double as a beach bag or a gym bag. Some models also come with a separate shoe compartment and the lifetime warranty means that you can trust this is a quality bag.

Product images courtesy of Amazon, Travelpro, and Samsonite

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Carry-on Luggage and Personal Item Size Limits (2024)

Text Callout : Key Takeaways - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item, you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

Alaska Airlines

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

Allegiant Air

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

American Airlines

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Delta Air Lines

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

Frontier Airlines

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

Hawaiian Airlines

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you will have to pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). However, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

Southwest Airlines

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

Sun Country Airlines

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

United Airlines

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

All Nippon Airways

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

British Airways

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Scandinavian Airlines

Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

Turkish Airlines

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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10 Ridiculously Spacious Weekender Bags You’ll Want on Hand for Travel This Year — Up to 50% Off at Amazon

Prices start as low as $21 on these functional and stylish duffels.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

On certain short vacations, it doesn’t necessarily make sense to pack up your bulky rolling suitcase. Namely, weekend trips. When you’re planning on only being away from home for just a few days, a spacious weekender bag is really all you need to get the job done, and Amazon has proven once again to be the go-to destination for all of your travel needs.

Whether you’re gearing up for a bachelorette trip , a beachside getaway, or even a staycation in your own city, we’ve uncovered the 10 weekender bags currently on sale at Amazon that are about to make your packing experience so much easier. Best of all, prices start as low as just $21.

Vera Bradley Women’s Cotton Weekender Travel Bag

Vera Bradley has been making spacious and reliable duffel bags for years, and this cotton tote is perfect for anything from a short weekend getaway to even longer adventures thanks to the luggage sleeve at the back of the bag that makes it stackable atop your rolling suitcase. Top-carry handles alongside an adjustable shoulder strap make traveling with this bag easy and comfortable, while a multitude of exterior and interior mesh pockets make way for impressive organization. Plus, the entire bag is machine washable so you can rinse away the dirt and grime of the airport once you’ve arrived home. 

Etronik Travel Weekender Bag

If you’ve been eyeing the viral Béis weekender bag but can’t swing the price tag, this best-seller from Etronik is an excellent, wallet-friendly alternative that boasts impressive packing capacity alongside a number of compartments for maximum organization. The roomy primary pocket offers ample space for all of your favorite clothing that you might want to pack for your trip, while the base of the bag is fitted with a special shoe compartment to keep the remnants of filthy city streets away from your clean laundry. Air vents in the shoe compartment ensure that your bag will never get stuffy (even during longer trips), and right now the top-rated tote is on sale for just $36 at Amazon.

Hyc00 Travel Weekender Overnight Bag

Simple, spacious, and reliable, this best-selling tote bag from Hyc00 is a worthy bag selection for overnight and weekend travel, and can even be repurposed as a gym bag in the interim. The 35-liter capacity has room for several days’ worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries, while a water-resistant exterior is great for traveling during the rainy spring months. The modest size of this bag is airplane compliant, securing its spot as a convenient carry-on, and a simple trolley sleeve also makes this bag a great stackable option alongside a larger rolling suitcase. It even contains a built-in laptop compartment and wet pocket to meet all of your travel needs.

Soaeon Canvas Travel Overnight Weekender Bag

This luxurious and astoundingly spacious weekender bag is a standout choice for travelers (and also currently available for just $38 at Amazon) because not only does it have the packing capacity for up to four days, but it also unzips like a traditional suitcase to allow for even more organized packing. The details of this bag set it apart from competitors as it features durable leather handles, a sturdy, waterproof exterior, and reinforced stitching that will keep it in prime shape for years to come. Just don’t forget to clip the additional 10 percent off coupon at checkout for even more impressive savings.

Foundry Fit & Fresh Art Deco Weekender Bag

Overpackers will be thrilled to get their hands on this exceptionally large weekender bag that’s best suited for long car rides, trips to the beach, or any other occasion when you plan on packing a large volume of items. This tote measures 22 inches by 18 inches by 12 inches, allowing ample space for more than everything you’ll need — just note that it’s not likely a great choice for taking on an airplane. A wide zipper at the top of the bag alongside several interior zippered pockets make it easy to keep your belongings organized and secure, and when this bag is not in use, the canvas material allows it to be easily folded up and kept out of the way. At just $21, you can upgrade your travel experience even on a budget.

Bagsmart Travel Quilted Weekender Bag

Bagsmart excels at crafting high-quality travel gear at affordable prices, and this quilted weekender bag is on sale for just $27 in time for your spring travels ahead. This tote is perfectly suited for air travel and will easily fit in the overhead compartment of most commercial airlines; plus, it comes with a comfy and adjustable shoulder-carry strap, a convenient trolley sleeve, and a portable shoe bag to keep your clothes clean and separated. With enough space to pack for up to a four-day trip, this versatile carry-on is a reliable choice for any trips you have on the agenda for the coming months.

Wogarl 4-piece Weekender Bag Set

Get the most bang for your buck with this four-piece luggage set from Wogarl that not only comes with a weekender bag, but also a shoe bag, a toiletry tote, an additional dopp kit, and even a matching purse. A luggage sleeve at the back of the bag makes it easily stackable for week-long adventures, while a water-resistant exterior promises to keep your belongings safe during any inclement weather you may encounter during your travel days. Plus, the base of the bag features another hidden compartment that’s an excellent place to store your dirty laundry, making for a streamlined unpacking experience once you arrive home. 

Ibfun Weekender Bag

Looking to add some personality to your luggage selection this season? Well, this Ibfun weekender duffel is poised to be a great travel companion thanks to its spacious primary compartment, reinforced and reliable design, and roomy shoe pocket that’s lined with waterproof material to take on rainy weather in style. Right now, this convenient carry-on is double discounted to just $35 at Amazon, and it even boasts enough space to pack for up to four days of traveling (or a weekend trip if you’re an overpacker). And with a bonus toiletry kit and purse included, you can’t go wrong in scoring this unbeatable deal.

Beulptn Small Weekender Bag with Shoe Compartment

Minimalist packers will find this compact weekender to be a worthy addition to their travels — especially considering it’s on sale for just $24 at Amazon. Small enough to fit underneath most airplane seats (and inside of overhead bins), this weekender is truly ideal for two-day trips. It’s lightweight, durable, and conveniently designed to keep your belongings well-organized and in place, and it even features a hidden shoe pocket on the side for a single pair of your favorite kicks. 

S-Zone Canvas Overnight Weekender Bag

If you’re shopping for a no-fuss bag that offers incredible packing capacity, a sturdy design, and even an expandable primary compartment, this duffel from S-Zone is sure to become your go-to choice — and it’s a whopping 50 percent off at Amazon. A canvas exterior accentuated with leather top-carry handles and other detailing creates a luxurious finish to this refined bag, while it’s the perfect size to function as a carry-on during your next flight. Rivets at the bottom of the bag add valuable reinforcements that help it stand on its own, and an adjustable and removable shoulder-carry strap is the cherry on top of this perfect weekender.

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Cities [ edit ]

• 48.483333 135.066667 1 Khabarovsk — the capital and major regional center (population 570,000)
• 50.55 137 3 Komsomolsk-on-Amur — a good sized city that is the steel center of Far Eastern Russia
• 59.383333 143.3 4 Okhotsk — First Russian settlement in the Far East (17th Century) and former headquarters of Vitus Bering, discoverer of the Bering Strait and Alaska; located in the region's far north
• 53.15 140.733333 5 Nikolaevsk-on-Amur
• 49.083333 140.266667 6 Vanino
• 48.966667 140.283333 7 Sovetskaya Gavan
• 48.748889 135.646111 8 Sikachi-Alyan — a small village of the Nanai people with a museum of local culture, opportunities for fine Nanai dining, and 13000 year old Nanai cliff drawings

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 57.104283 138.257106 4 Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve
• 48.204944 134.858911 5 Bolshekhekhtsirsky Nature Reserve
• 48.10582 135.136973 7 Vladimirovka , located miles and miles away from Komsomolsk, a native village of Negidals.

Understand [ edit ]

Geography [ edit ]

Khabarovsk Krai occupies a long swathe of Russia's Pacific coastline, a full 2000 kilometers of it, going as far south as Sakhalin and north to Magadan Oblast . At nearly 800.000 km², it's Russias fourth largest province. In the north, taiga and tundra prevail, deciduous forests in the south, and swampy forests in the central areas around Nikolaevsk-on-Amur . As a testament to its size there are more than 50 thousand lakes to fish in, more rivers and streams than you would care to count, and several mountain ranges intersect the region, including the northern reaches of the Sikhote-Alin mountains shared with Primorsky krai. The highest point is Mount Bery, towering nearly in fact, three quarters of the area is occupied by mountains and plateaus.

Biodiversity [ edit ]

The diversity of purely North animals like brown bear and sheer South representatives like Eastern softshell spiny turtle (Trionix) is backed by the legend that God would mix the rest of seeds and animals when somebody told him about missing spot on Earth.

One can encounter pine-tree and wild Far-Eastern grape which came definitely from the South. Its blue round berries with sour taste are cultivated in gardens to produce home wine.

Like Trionix many species are listed in the Red Book.

Culture [ edit ]

Japanese director Akira Kurosawa's 1975 film Dersu Uzala, based on a book by Russian explorer Vladimir Arsenyev, describes the friendship of a Russian explorer and his Nanai guide named Dersu Uzala. (Wikipedia)

Aboriginal culture within small enclaves across the krai are Nanai, Ulchi, Manchur, Orochi, Udege, Negidal, Nivkhi, Evenki and varies in each settlement.

Facts [ edit ]

Talk [ edit ].

See Russian phrasebook .

Get in [ edit ]

Khabarovsk is a major transportation hub for the entire Russian Far East and will likely be any visitor's first stop by either the Trans-Siberian Railway or via Khabarovsk's international airport ( KHV  IATA ).

From China there are two entrance routes: one begins on the border with the Heihe - Blagoveshchensk crossing point, the other from Fuyuan town on Amur river. Another possible way is one from Sakhalin, where international ferry operates between Russian Korsakov and Japan's Wakkanai . A one-night bus trip along the federal highway Vladivostok-Khabarovsk is an option for a traveller, if the train carriage by some odd reason is not preferable.

Do [ edit ]

Fishing and hunting in the wild are the major attractions for local villagers, town and city dwellers as well as trekking routes to taiga plains and mountains untouched by humans are favourite activities for all sorts of tourists. Khabarovsk and Komsomolsk mountain bike clubs are all at it. Taiga forest roads are always abuzz with mosquitos in summer and the best seasons for visiting are May and September when the air is not so stifling and the sun is just warm. Winter attracts regional skiers and snowboarders to the ski bases "Holdomi" and "Amut Snow Lake" near Komsomolsk and "Spartak" slopes near Khabarovsk.

Eat [ edit ]

Local food follows traditional Russian cuisine featured with salted bracken, mushrooms, Korean and Chinese and even European dishes served in theme restaurants of two big cities. Don't forget to taste pancakes with a spoonful of linden, wildflower, buckweat honey or a season caviar stuffing.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Snakes and bears are rare attackers in the wild, lest provoked. More dangerous are infectious ticks which are active most of all in spring. Use spray against ticks.

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Khabarovsk is the hub for regional air travel with important flights to Russian destinations Anadyr , Irkutsk , Krasnoyarsk , Magadan , Moscow , Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , Yakutsk , and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk , as well as international flights to Niigata , Japan and to Seoul , Korea . There are no direct flights to/from the US .

The next major stops to the east on the Trans-Siberian Railway are Ussuriysk and Vladivostok ; to the west, Birobidzhan .

There is a regular ferry from Vanino (the terminus of the Baikal-Amur Mainline ) to Kholmsk , Sakhalin .

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HIGHLIGHTS & SIGHTSEEING IN KHABAROVSK

• The City Tour along wooden and brick houses preserved from the time of the city’s founding will enable you to feel an unmistakable charm of Khabarovsk. The oldest Komsomolskaya Square houses the remarkable redbrick building dating 1901(now the Public Library). Splendid view of the St.Innokenty church – the first church built in the city. During the Stalin’s period, a well known GULAG Camp existed near the Ulakhan village which was located close the city.
• The Archaeological Museum contains over 40,000 artifacts; among them, there are the world famous petrogliphs of Sikachi Alyan and cultural heritage of the Golden Empire of the Jurchen People.
• The Art Museum possesses a unique collection of the Far Eastern aboriginal crafts and arts that includes fish skin outfits, beautiful carpets and bone engraved items. Some wonderful ancient Russian icons and paintings by famous Russian artists Ilya Repin, Ivan Shishkin and Isaac Levitan, as well as works by Western masters, such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Monet are exhibited in the Art Museum.
• The Cruise along the Amur River is might be a beautiful journey within a live archeological museum. The riverside rocks make an unusual display of man-made carvings – petrogliphs that are the images of ancient cultural heritage of local ethnic groups. The Bolshekhetsirsky State Nature Preserve has conifer-broadleaved forests rich in typically virgin nature and genetic stock of organic life. In 30 miles to the southwest of the city, there is the Khekhtsir State Nature Reserve, a unique place where southern lianas, Manchurian walnuts grow side by side with evergreen conifers. Bears, foxes, wolves, elks and tigers could be watched occasionally there. The Badjal Range – one of the most picturesque parts of the Russian Far East with unique flora and fauna is abundant in sable, musk deer and bears.

Khabarovsk, Russia

Tours, Attractions and Things To Do in Khabarovsk

Khabarovsk travel guide.

• 1. Architecture
• 2. Attractions
• 3. Cultural life
• 4. Souvenirs

Khabarovsk, Russia fascinates visitors with its unusual heritage and fabulous untouched nature. Tourists are drawn to the native culture, eclectic architecture and mesmerizing waters in this off-the-beaten-track destination, which promises a unique and memorable vacation.

As the center of Russia’s far eastern region of Khabarovsk Krai, the city offers celebrations throughout the year which are sure to give added flair to your trip, from traditional culture days to large-scale food fests. It is easy to keep a full itinerary during your stay thanks to its many theaters, museums, restaurants, workshops and quest rooms. Guests who want a more relaxed holiday can venture into the serenity of Khabarovsk nature, including the coast of the Sea of Japan or one of the region’s many picturesque lakes .

Khabarovsk Architecture

Khabarovsk architecture surprises with its harmonious blending of varying types and styles. This is due in large part to major changes which the city underwent in the mid-19th-early 20th centuries in conjunction with developments in the political, economic, scientific and technical spheres. The search for new trends in architecture came after the death of the classicism style, which had dominated the Russian Empire and the wider world for centuries. Beginning in the mid-19th century, the practice of mixing eclectic architectural styles began to emerge, leading to an era of amazing stylistic improvisations.

During the final decades of Romanov reign, many educational institutions for architects and engineers were opened. As a result, the face of numerous Russian cities began to change rapidly. Art Nouveau - a new, modern trend that absorbed several preceding styles – had come to dominate the architectural scene.

Many Art Nouveau buildings can still be seen in central Khabarovsk. These include:

• Takeuchi apartment building (5 Muravyov-Amursky Street)
• Esplanade Hotel (18 Muravyov-Amursky Street)
• Luhta apartment building (84 Komsomolskaya Street)
• Zandau apartment building (34 Muravyov-Amursky Street)

Khabarovsk also has many Gothic buildings, a style distinguished by its elegance and attention to detail. Every element of Gothic architecture emphasize a vertical orientation, as seen in the massive walls and columns, round arches and wide windows which contrast with narrow towers, pointed peaks and lancet windows.

Khabarovsk’s Gothic architecture is best represented by the artillery warehouse buildings located at 16 Komsomolskaya Street. Another notable example is the Red Guard Headquarters (105 Komsomolskaya Street), which has been preserved in its original form. The complex consists of two identical two-story brick buildings with unusual motifs containing pseudo-gothic elements.

Also of note is the early 20th-century Treasury Building, a luxurious red brick structure with openwork balconies that exudes an architectural grace.

Khabarovsk also has many Soviet-era buildings which were mostly designed in the constructivism style. Characterized by their enormous size and grotesque shapes, they often occupy most of the block and dominate the surrounding space.

During your Khabarovsk excursion, be sure to appreciate its unique architectural heritage by going for a walk downtown .

Khabarovsk Attractions

The layout of Khabarovsk is very simple: its 3 main streets of Lenin, Muravyov-Amursky and Seryshev pass through the downtown area, while Ussuriysky and Amur Boulevards run perpendicular to them. A distinctive feature of Khabarovsk are its many hills, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for your walk.

Begin your walking tour of Khabarovsk from the train station, where you can see the monument to Yerofey Khabarov, the famous explorer for whom the city is named. Nearby is a sculpture of a double-headed eagle, erected in memory of soldiers, officers and builders of the Far Eastern Railway. Moving from the station along Amur Boulevard you will reach the central market, just past which is Lenin Square. A spacious area with a granite fountain in the center, it is the main plaza of Khabarovsk and the site of the city’s Christmas and New Year celebrations. Next to the square is Dynamo Park, famous for its three ponds and Ferris wheel.

From Lenin Square, move along Muravyov-Amursky Street to reach Amur Embankment, passing most of Khabarovsk’s famous 19th-20th century buildings along the way. Descend to the embankment via two grand staircases or make a small detour onto Shevchenko Street, where you can follow the slope until you reach the embankment’s main stretch. Among other things, the area is home to the House of Officers and three museums.

As you move along the embankment through a park you will come across the city symbol of Khabarovsk, a building set on a steep cliff above the Amur River. It was at the foot of this cliff that the founders of a military post, the first semblance of civilization in the area, first landed.

After reaching the river and walking along Ussuriysky Boulevard to Turgenev Street, turn right to reach Glory Square. Here you will find another famous Khabarovsk landmark, Transfiguration Cathedral, along with a magnificent view of the Amur River and its dreamy islands. Glory Square concludes the main walking route of Khabarovsk, but from here you can reach any part of the city by public transport or taxi .

Khabarovsk Cultural Life

Khabarovsk entertainment centers around its many theaters and museums. Visit Khabarovsk Museum of Local Lore to get a better glimpse of city and regional life. Children and adults alike will want to visit Fishes of Amur River Museum, an aquarium which is home to some 90 species of the underwater world. To catch the vibe of local artists, head to the Far Eastern Art Museum.

There are several theaters in Khabarovsk, each of which is worth visiting:

• Khabarovsk Regional Puppet Theater;
• Triad Pantomime Theater;
• Khabarovsk Regional Philharmonic;
• White Theater, and others.

In addition, Khabarovsk offers several concert halls, culture houses, cinemas and art institutions .

Khabarovsk Souvenirs

While the city’s souvenir selection is not as diverse as in other Russian cities, guests can still find something suited to their tastes on their tour to Khabarovsk. Amur River and the Sea of Japan offer an abundance of seafood that can be tasted on the spot or brought home in dried or smoked form. Yet it is the rich culture of the local indigenous peoples which provides the largest selection of national souvenirs.

If you’re looking for an original gift, traditional Nanai slippers are comfortable and warm. Sewn from leather or fabric and decorated in a bright, colorful style before being trimmed with fur, they make the perfect house shoes in winter. Traditional decorations include amulets which are made from animal bones, fur or fabrics and decorated with ribbons and colored beads.

Standard souvenirs like plates, magnets, mugs and flasks stamped with images of Khabarovsk or its coat of arms can be purchased in souvenir shops, which are mostly located downtown and at the airport and railway station.

Russian Far East: top 10 experiences

Aug 10, 2018 • 6 min read

The limestone Lena Pillars are a popular cruise trip from Yakutsk © Vicky Ivanova / Shutterstock

The Russian Far East has a mystique that’s been luring travellers for generations. With the volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, ancient stone pillars on the Lena River and some of the world’s coldest and remotest human settlements, as well as the cosmopolitan cities of Vladivostok and Khabarovsk, the region has something for everyone. Russia’s poignant past is present here too, from the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) railway to the infamous Kolyma Highway that runs to Magadan, the most notorious outpost of the Far Eastern Gulag system.

Vladivostok

The ‘Master of the East’, a hip, dynamic city with an impressive setting in the Golden Horn Bay, Vladivostok is the unofficial capital of the Russian Far East and a cultural heavyweight in its own right. St Petersburg’s renowned Mariinsky Theatre has inaugurated the Primorsky Stage in the city in recent years, joining the new Hermitage Vladivostok branch and the stellar Zarya Centre for Contemporary Art as the city’s premier cultural attractions. Meanwhile, the S-56 Submarine , Fort No 7 and the Vladivostok Fortress Museum pay homage to the city’s background as Russia’s most important eastern naval base. Vladivostok’s dining scene is second only to Moscow and St Petersburg, and numerous cocktail bars and pubs attract night owls. If the frenetic pace is a little overwhelming, you can always escape to the beaches on Russky Island and Popov Island .

Right in the heart of the legendary Kamchatka peninsula, the little town of Esso is the jumping-off spot for some terrific hiking, soaking in the istochniki (hot springs) and rafting on the nearby Bystraya River. Charming  izbas (wooden cottages) sit in a pine-scented valley, surrounded by forested mountains. A well-marked network of hiking trails threads its way through the surrounding Bystrinsky Nature Park, ranging in difficulty and in length – the shortest is 2km, the longest 42km.

Valley of Geysers, Kamchatka

Accessible only by a helicopter tour from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the smoking Dolina Geyzerov is the star attraction of  Kamchatka – the volcano- and geyser-studded peninsula that has the most dramatic, volatile topography in all of Russia. This 8km-long valley, bisected by the Geysernaya River, is dotted with several dozen geysers that sporadically blast steam, mud and water towards the sky. Some of the more colourful ones can be admired while strolling along a specially made boardwalk.

The remote capital of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk is both the world’s coldest city and a marvel of Soviet engineering, built entirely on permafrost. Its tangle of overground pipes, carrying water and gas, is a peculiar sight, but Yakutsk is a surprisingly cosmopolitan place despite its isolation. A visit to the quirky  Permafrost Kingdom is particularly worthwhile, with its never-melting sculptures of pagan gods and mythological characters, while the National Art Museum introduces you to the mammoth tusk carvings and paintings by Sakha artists. The best places to try Sakha delicacies such as indigirka (raw, frozen fish), reindeer and zherebyatiny (colt fillet) are Chochur Muran and Makhtal restaurants.

Riding the BAM railway

Stretching for some 4324km from Severobaikalsk (on the northern shores of Lake Baikal) to the Sea of Okhotsk, the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) is a triumph of railway engineering (and convict labour) and the less-taken alternative to the Trans-Siberian Railway. With its bridges spanning the mighty Lena and Amur rivers, its tunnels blasted through kilometres of sheer rock, and its tracks running through dense spruce forest and taiga, riding the BAM is a wonderful way to get to know ordinary Russians. You might find yourself sharing a beer or hot tea and heaped spoons of caviar with miners or lumberjacks, who’ll be intensely curious about you. It’s worth disembarking in Tynda, where travel writer Dervla Murphy got stuck while writing Through Siberia by Accident, to visit the BAM Museum, and in Komsomolsk-na-Amure, to check out the grand Soviet-era mosaics and the riverside beach.

Some 650km east of Yakutsk, the tiny reindeer and silver fox breeding station of Oymyakon (population around 500) is the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth, with temperatures in the nearby valleys dropping as low as -82°C. Various travel agencies in Yakutsk, including Visit Yakutia , organise week-long tours to Oymyakon to attend the annual Pole of Cold Festival in late March, featuring reindeer races, outdoor concerts and other festivities.

Whether you come here in winter for the ice sculptures, or in summer for the lively nightlife and the Amur River beach, Khabarovsk is a breath of fresh air, especially if you’ve spent days cooped up on the train before getting here. Its wide boulevards are lined with stately, tsarist-era buildings (spot the Far Eastern State Research Library and the Tsentralny Gastronom), and there are numerous green walkways for strolling around the city, including those on Amursky bul and Ussuriysky bul. The burgeoning dining scene’s highlights are Georgian cuisine at Satsivi  and fusion at Farsh ; some good bars are dotted around the city centre, including the hipster Brozbar , with a good range of craft beer.

Magadan and Kolyma Highway

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hemmed in by the Sea of Okhotsk, Magadan is a surprisingly pleasant city, given its dark past. Described as the ‘pole of cold and cruelty’ in Solzhenitsyn’s Gulag Archipelago, it was the most notorious of the Stalinist forced labour camps from the 1930s to mid-1950s. The harsh sub-Arctic climate and dreadful work conditions are believed to have killed over a million prisoners in the Kolyma region, commemorated by the giant Mask of Sorrow monument on a hillside above Magadan, as well as at the Magadan Regional Museum . You can get here by air, or via the Russian Far East’s most ambitious road trip – a three- or four-day journey from Yakutsk by 6WD vehicle or truck along the Kolyma Highway, aka the ‘road of bones’, built on the backs of countless Gulag labourers.

Lena Pillars

The Russian Far East’s most popular cruise is the two-day jaunt from Yakutsk to the Lenskie Stolby (Lena Pillars) along the mighty Lena River. Resembling a petrified forest, the 80km-long, 35-million-year-old limestone pillars reach for the sky along the riverbank – a startling sight after you’ve spent many hours floating through impenetrable spruce forest. Lena Tur Flot  runs 36- and 46-hour cruises here aboard its two comfy cruise ships; you’ll even get to see a shaman ceremony.

Blagoveshchensk

A remote Russian outpost since 1644, this frontier town faces its rather more modern Chinese neighbour, Heihe, across the Amur River. However, it’s worth making the detour 110km south of the main Trans-Siberian Railway line to Blagoveshchensk to check out the charming tsarist-era architecture that dots the town centre; another highlight is the extensive  Amur Regional Museum . Blagoveshchensk is also one of the easiest places in Russia from which to enter China (though you’ll need to organise your visa in advance).

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