Not checking your bag is a great way to minimize the stress that comes with flying.
But I’m sure you’ll agree that getting an overhead bin space large enough for your luggage is easier said than done. This is especially true when you have two bags.
We’ve done all the experimenting and research to help you choose the best under seat luggage for your next flight.
Table of Contents
Why An Underseat Carry-On Luggage?
Why should you acquire one when you plan on taking a plane? There are several different luggage options you can go for. Why not a regular luggage or even a regular sized carry-on. Well, an under seat carry-on has several advantages.
-
- No Height Issues: For many people reaching the overhead bin is difficult. So is the struggle to get your luggage in there. This is a problem that an underseat carry-on solves. There is no need to haul your luggage up heights. After getting your luggage up there, the height and even the weight of the bag can make it difficult to fit your bag in there snuggly. With an underseat suitcase, all you need to do is slide it under the seat, and you are good to go.
- Reduced Risk of Injury: Because of the height of overhead bins, individuals with back injuries, pain or spondylosis find hauling their luggage up the overhead bin a near-impossible task. This means if you have a large suitcase, then you will have to find someone to do that for you. However, with an underseat bag, you can simply slide your belongings underneath the seat.
- Reduced Risk of Damages: Dropping your luggage can lead to damages and breakages. You run the risk of having this happening if you have to lift it overhead. So as you guessed, this is another pro to being able just to slide it in place.
- Unboarding Made Easy: Another plus of is that retrieving your baggage when the flight lands are easy.
Factors To Consider When Choosing An Underseat Suitcase
When purchasing underseat luggage, here are some factors to consider. These factors will guide you towards the right bag for you and your trip:
Size Matters
Obviously, the first consideration will be the bag’s size. Airlines usually decide what qualifies as a carry-on based on the size of their overhead bins. However, this is not the only measurement you need to take into consideration, since the space under the seats may be smaller than the area in the overhead bin. While there is no single fit-all dimensions, getting a bag with a length below 19 inches will usually qualify as carry-on luggage that fits under an airplane’s seat. Here are some estimates of underseat dimensions in several different airlines.
-
-
- American Airline: 20 x 17 x 11.5 inches
- Delta: 20 x 17 x 11 inches
- United: 20 x 14 x 9 inches
- Virgin America: 18 x 15 x 8 inches
- Spirit Airlines: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
- SouthWest: 18 x 18 x 9.5 inches
- JetBlue: 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
-
Also, it is important to remember that the space under the middle seat is usually the widest. The window and aisle seats tend to be narrower.
Construction of the Bag
There are two types of bags to consider. And these are the soft sides and the hard sides. Usually, soft-sided bags make better underseat luggage, since they can squeeze into tight spaces better. Apart from that fact, you also need to check the workmanship that went into the making of the bag.
Luggage used for long distance travel suffer a lot of stress. As such, it is important that the bag is constructed diligently, and with durable materials. This will ensure the bag can handle the constant shoving that it will experience from being under a seat.
The stitching and the straps need careful inspection too. Ensure that the seams do not come lose if the strap gets caught on something.
Wheels
The wheels of an underseat language make it easy to move. While most young people have no problem hauling their bags over their shoulders from terminal to terminal, many people prefer rolling their bags. Not all wheels are the same. A bag with two wheels requires you to pull it behind you, while a bag with four wheels enables you to draw it by your side. This makes the four-wheeler easier to move.
However, with small bags, a two-wheel system may be the way to go, since two-wheeled bags have more interior space.
The Best Underseat Carry-On Luggage Reviews
#1: RusticTown Leather Travel Duffel Bag
Made from 100% genuine leather, this attractive and fashionable bag from RusticTown is one of the best bags on the market. This rustic yet fashionable bag is excellent for business trips, weekend getaways, air travel, and much more.
Pros
- A large spacious main compartment
- A very fashionable bag with its Brush-Stroke Design
- Made with strong buffalo leather
- High quality stitching and workmanship
Cons
- Since this bag does not have wheels, carrying it can get tiresome
#2: Samsonite Silhouette Sphere 2 Softside Spinner Boarding Bag
This is a great underseat bag that comes in 3 different colors. The Samsonite Silhouette Sphere 2 Softside Spinner Boarding Bag is practical, stylish and durable. It is constructed of high-quality nylon so you can be assured that it will be long-lasting.
Pros
- It has large main compartment
- This bag has a laptop compartment
- Aesthetically pleasing bag
- With a size of 17 x 14.0 x 7.75 inches, it meets airline carry-on restrictions with ease
Cons
- Could be a little bigger. However, it is the perfect size for an underseat boarding bag.
#3: Samsonite Wheeled Underseater Luggage
One of the best underseat carry-on luggage on the market is this Samsonite bag. For many, the manufacturers of Samsonite bags are known for making quality bags at a great price. Not only is this bag durable, but it’s also easy to move, and it is light.
Pros
- Great pockets
- A lot of interior space
- Removable toiletries pouch
- Removable wetpack
- Durable built
- It can be mounted onto other handles of other spinners
Cons
- None that we could immediately identify
#4: Travelon Wheeled Underseat Carry-On with Back-Up Bag
This good-looking yet economical bag will fit under the seats of most planes. Not only is it easy to move, but the packet arrangements are also excellent. You’ll also find a water bottle holder and an extra tote bag included just in case you need more space.
Pros
- A large main compartment
- A water bottle holder included/li>
- The add-a-bag strap feature allows you to strap on the tote bag that comes with it for extra space
- The material used in the bag’s construction is strong
Cons
- The zippers are not the best
#5: LUCAS Wheeled Underseat Cabin Bag
Although not the most durable bag on this list, it is worth it for its price. If you are an infrequent traveler then this may just be the bag for you. It rolls along smoothly and has several useful pockets.
Pros
- It is super affordable (if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option)
- It has two wheels which makes moving the bag around easy
- Comes with document pouch, a hanging toiletries bag, and a slipper pouch
Cons
- Not the most durable bag on the market unfortunately
#6: Travelpro Luggage Maxlite3 Rolling Tote
This is one of the most loved underseat boarding bag out there. Although the Maxlite 4 is out, many people still prefer the Maxlite3.
Pros
- It has a stain resistant coating for easy washing
- A large spacious main compartment
- The handle is durable
- Great zippers
Cons
- The telescopic handle is a bit short
Final Thoughts
As you may have already guessed, a good carry-on luggage need not be expensive. The bag we strongly reommend is the RusticTown Leather Travel Duffel Bag. This bag is not only durable and well-made, but it is also easy to move and has great compartments and pockets. The measurements of the bag will ensure it fits under the seats on any plane. Lastly, the price is great. Need I say more?
[kkstarratings]