I was recently on a Delta flight to Jacksonville, Florida. I was carrying on a small rolling suitcase that contained my laptop, some medication and other valuables. On each flight the majority of passengers were asked to check their carry on as the airplane was a small one. Each time I had to essentially unpack my suitcase and try to stuff all my valuables in my purse and when they wouldn’t fit I just had to carry them under my arms, in my hands, and even my mouth!!
Although this is certainly not the norm with Delta flights it has happened on enough airplanes over the years that I need to buy a small underseat carry on to use from now on!
Carry on luggage is a pain! Airlines roll out new rules every year about how big your carry on bag or personal item needs to be, which often leaves travelers scrambling to find the right size and shape of bag.
This blog post will teach you everything you need to know about what size luggage fits under airplane seats so that neither yourself nor any other passengers have their trip disrupted by these pesky restrictions!
Why you need Carry on luggage that fits under your seat
- You won’t have to do what I did, and scramble to pull out things you need with you at the last minute.
- No more running to the gate at the last minute and trying to squeeze your bag into an overhead bin or under a seat.
- It will save you time when boarding as you don’t need to find an empty overhead compartment.
- You will have access to everything you need on your flight at your fingertips.
What size luggage fits under the seat
The underseat area in front of you will fit anything up to 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. This is a measurement for most regular airlines. Discount airlines like Frontier and Spirit have smaller guidelines. Please check before you fly!
*I have put the size of each of the bags I recommend under the description. Make sure they are correct for your flight before you purchase!
The Best Under Seat Luggage
Lily Bloom Underseat Tote
A great underseat bag is the Lily Bloom Underseat Tote. This tote can be completely flattened in order to fit underneath a seat, and also expands outwards so that it doesn’t take up more than one space when fully expanded. It’s made from 100% cotton fabric, which means you won’t have any trouble with ripping or tearing while trying to cram your luggage into an overhead compartment!
The pockets on this piece of baggage are perfect for storing anything you might need during your flight including snacks, books and electronics chargers (don’t forget your power cord!). Not only does this tote store everything neatly – it also looks nice as well!
This bag measures 15” x 18” x 14″
- LILY BLOOM underseat rolling bag is constructed of a fashionable and durable material that will withstand the rigors of travel. Suitcase lining made of high...
- BUILT FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE: Ergonomic handle providing easy maneuverability and relieve any pressure from your arms while on the move; Telescopiec push...
- DELICATE DESIGN; The stylish unique style, catering to the new trend of fashion. One large main pocket and one zippered hidden pocket
High Sierra Endeavor Wheeled Underseat Carry-On
This underseat luggage was made to fit under the seat in front of you on an airplane. Made from ballistic nylon and polyester, this carry-on will be durable enough to withstand any travel situation. There is a zipper that extends all the way around so you can open it up completely when needed or just use one side if there’s not enough space for your items.
Another great feature about this luggage is that it has both handles and wheels; so you can carry it how ever works best for you.
This bag measures 7.25″ x 12.0″ x 7.75″
- Material: 600D heather dobby polyester. Designed to fit under an airplane seat. Fully-padded computer compartment fits most 15 inch laptops. Dedicated tablet...
- Molded front pockets adds protection for valuables. Expandable zippered side shoe pocket, doubles as an interior divider panel. Internal zippered mesh pocket.
- Premium organizer with multiple pockets and key fob. Smooth rolling in-line skate wheels. Extendable, push button, locking handle.
Rockland Melrose Upright Wheeled Underseater Carry-On Luggage
This carry-on luggage was made to fit under the seat in front of you on an airplane. Made from polyester, this bag is durable enough to withstand any travel situation with its reinforced corners and edges.
There are four pockets for organization: two zippered side pockets – one at the top of the bag and another near the bottom – a large zippered pocket that can be accessed through a flap on either long end; as well as many other compartments inside that are perfect for separating clothing by category (e.g., underwear). Its a great way to pack everything you need for a weekend trip.
This bags is 14″x8″x16″ (with wheels)
- Large Main compartment
- Fits underneath Airplane seat
- Side mesh pockets for water bottle, papers
Lewis N. Clark Underseat Carry-on Backpack + RFID Protection System
Sometimes the best underseat luggage is one you wear. Lewis N. Clark’s Underseat Carry-on Backpack + RFID Protection System is an underseat luggage bag that you wear on your back, like a backpack while still providing plenty of storage space for all the things you need for carrying-on.
A padded waist belt and sternum strap keep it in place when worn as a backpack or messenger style, while adjustable shoulder straps allow for different ways to carry it if desired. The main zip compartment features three zipper compartments with two mesh pockets (one zippered) inside; there are also two small front slip pockets – one zippered and another open; plus four exterior slots perfect for quick access items such as passports or boarding passes.
This bag is 1.8 x 18 x 6.5 inches
- MAXIMUM STORAGE: This backpack is specifically designed to fit under airline seats and in overhead compartments without sacrificing your storage space. Easily...
- RFID BLOCKING: This travel backpack includes a Datablock RFID blocking pocket that stops unauthorized RFID transmissions up to 13.56 MHz, which is the standard...
- RUGGED DURABILITY: This backpack is made with 840D ballistic nylon. It will keep your belongings protected during the toughest travel conditions. Ultra-durable...
Steve Madden Luggage Wheeled Suitcase Under Seat Bag
This Steve Madden Luggage Wheeled Suitcase Under Seat Bag is a perfect accessory for your next business trip! It is a beautiful wheeled bag that looks as great as it performs.
The suitcase includes an ergonomic handle and retractable telescoping trolley handle for easy maneuverability. It has four 360-degree spinning wheels that are sturdy on any surface, as well as two exterior pockets to store everything you need while on the go.
Size of bag 15 x 9 x 14 inches
- ✈️ AIRPLANE FRIENDLY MULTI-PURPOSE DESIGN: The perfect carry-on bag for airline travel and small enough to be your underseat personal item on major...
- ✈️ BUILT FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE; You can easily drag this 2-wheeled backpack along the airport with its ergonomic handle providing easy maneuverability...
- ✈️ Steve Madden UNDERSEAT CARRY-ON is constructed of a fashionable and durable material that will withstand the rigors of travel. Fully lined interior and...
Bebe Women’s Valentina-Wheeled Under The Seat Carry-on Bag
This bebe Women’s Valentina-Wheeled Under The Seat Carry-on Bag is a real workhorse that will make trip after trip and still look great!
It features an ergonomic carry handle and retractable telescoping trolley handle for easy maneuverability. In addition, it includes four 360 degree spinning wheels that are sturdy on any surface as well as two exterior pockets to store everything you need while on the go. It also features a strap so you can attach it to a larger suitcase for carrying.
Size of bag 15 x 8 x 16 inches
- Spacious main compartment
- In-line skate wheel system
- Multiple compartments
Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On Underseater Luggage
The Samsonite Upright Wheeled Carry-On Underseater Luggage will last for years. Samsonite makes beautiful luggage that comes with a 100 year history of suitcase making. The lightweight but durable soft sided case features a retractable handle for ease under foot.
It has a telescoping aluminum trolley system that extends from 22 inches to 41 inches, allowing you more room on top with other luggage being stored below. This bag also includes four 360 degree spinning wheels as well as exterior pockets for storage while on the go.
Size of bag 13 x 13 x9
- LARGE U SAHPED OPENING provides easy access to contents
- TOP CARRY HANDLE AND REMOVABLE shoulder strap provide comfort in transport
- EXTERIOR FRONT AND SIDE POCKETS provide easy access to last minute items
I hope this helps you find the carry on luggage that fits under your seat that works for you! Hopefully it will save you hours of looking on amazon trying to find the right size and having to read every single review. I did that for you!
If you are interested in rankings and reviews of other travel gear check out my other articles:
How to pack a carry on for 10 days
There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my disclosure policy to learn more.
Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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