MUST-KNOW Carry-on and Personal Item Rules for Flying

Airplane carry-on luggage rules, travel tips for first-time flyers, and what to do if overhead bins are full on your flight.
Watch next
👉Airplane Secrets: 6 Hacks Frequent Flyers Swear By: • Why Flying to Europe i...
👉 20 Must-Have LONG FLIGHT Essentials: • 20 Must-Have LONG FLIG...
👉Best Packing Strategy: • The BEST Way to Pack a...
Compare top travel insurance companies to find the BEST price, every time:
bit.ly/Travel-coverage
This is the ultimate guide (even if it is your first time on a flight!) to overhead bin space, bin size and how to get overhead bin space for your carry-on even on a full flight. Learn why planes don't have enough overhead storage and what to do when you board the plane and see that bins are full. You'll discover the best place to store your carry-on suitcase and personal item bag or purse on a plane. Find out smart strategies to ensure you get your carry-on in the overhead bin, and get tips on how to put your suitcase into an overhead bin correctly. You'll also learn if your backpack, jacket, hat and personal item can go in an overhead bin. If you are worried about having to check your carry-on suitcase, we will also discuss the process and what it means to gate check a bag instead of checking a suitcase for pick up at the luggage belt.
---
// RESOURCES
Compare travel insurance get the BEST price:
bit.ly/Travel-coverage
VPN - get 3 months FREE
www.expressvpn.com/portablepr...
eSIM
Save 5% with code: portable professional
bit.ly/PP-holafly
International Flight Checklist (free download)
bit.ly/researchguide-PP
00:00 Introduction
00:14 What to put in overhead bin
00:47 Can I put backpack in bin?
01:03 Which overhead bin is yours?
01:29 Is overhead bin storage assigned?
01:53 Overhead bin space is full
02:03 Can you open bin during flight?
02:58 If you need help...
04:10 How to put suitcase into overhead bin
05:04 Where to store suitcase on plane
05:29 How to get a overhead bin space
06:18 Overhead bin space size
06:50 Carry-on suitcase size
07:10 NO overhead bin space? Do this.
07:35 Gate check suitcase
08:03 Flight attendants and overhead bin space
---
// ABOUT
Welcome to Portable Professional, your go-to resource for stress-free travel.
Megan here, Hello! I've taken well over 300 flights and countless trips in the last decade. I have learned how to have seamless travel experiences without unnecessary stress and anxiety. I'm here to help you also feel confident about your travels while making the most of every trip.
Ready for stress-free travels? Subscribe and join us every Wednesday and Sunday for informative videos full of practical tips. You'll learn how to navigate airport security, pack like a pro, identify scams, and even uncover little-known hacks to take your travel to the next level. (these are my specialty!)
Subscribe: kzbin.info...
www.megangougeon.com/
/ megan.gougeon

[@PortableProfessional]

*ExpressVPN: Get 3 months FREE* ➔ www.expressvpn.com/portableprofessional

[@jeanniemarkech351]

Overhead bin space should ABSOLUTELY be assigned.

[@kaitiscarlett9022]

should be assigned by seat number. That eliminates every problem mentioned in this video.

[@nurseloco2003]

Except for I don’t think there are enough bins for everyone to have space above.

[@kaitiscarlett9022]

@@nurseloco2003 Yeah, I did think of that.. Maybe there would be if the seats weren't jammed so close together in order to squeeze in another row.

[@DavidWood2]

Such an approach is unworkable. Bulkhead and emergency exit rows need additional bin space, as passengers in these rows are not allowed to place items on the floor. Some passengers have legitimate additional carry-on items (medical equipment, wheelchair batteries, baby care items). Not every passenger needs their full bin space allocation; some choose to travel without a full-size carry-on. Allocating that space by seat wastes precious bin space. Some people manage to sneak oversized items into the cabin past the gate agents. Annoying as it is that they got away with breaking the rules (either because they didn't want to wait at the luggage carousel or because they didn't want to pay for checked luggage), sending them off the plane to check these bags will delay the flight.

[@thequake180]

That is why flying is a joke. Airlines are nothing more than flying cattle cars.

[@robertlloyd3184]

It would be helpful if the flight attendants would stop allowing people with massively oversize bags to enter the plane. It's usually backpacker types who try to board with enormous bags and then fight to cram them into the overhead space.

[@DavidWood2]

The gate agents are supposed to filter out those oversized bags. By the time the passengers have reached the plane, sending them back risks delaying the flight as it isn't easy to return the oversized bag to where any gate-checked luggage is being collated. Frustrating as it is when people carry on large rucksacks, these passengers know that the cabin crew will normally try to stow these oversized bags in the cabin, so the passengers take advantage of the situation.

[@oceanreefer2626]

I think the bin above your seat should be for your use. If there is room leftover then the spaces can be filled by others who need more room. This approach may stop the rush for people trying to board first!

[@Aaron613V]

Agreed 100%

[@GirlWanderDownUnder]

Assigned spots are probably not such a bad idea. It also seems that some of the airlines need to crack down on the number of bags people are bringing on. I have seen so many people putting more than one bag up into the overhead - the others often being their airport shopping. This means more people having to have their carryon checked last minute, which results in the flight being delayed. It would also be good for those who board earlier to remember that the passengers coming onto the plane after them are going to need space for their carryon as well - consideration goes a long way.

[@MarilynMayaMendoza]

About 20 years ago I was smacked on the mouth and lost a tooth because of a woman who missed her suitcase flying out of the overhead bin next to me. It’s really dangerous. I don’t put anything in the overhead bin. I have a small backpack That goes underneath the seat and I hold my purse. I have checked in luggage one piece that I share with my partner. Glad you mentioned people getting hurt. Aloha

[@lorigallegos5649]

Assigned!! I now take a backpack as my personal item, a laptop bag as a my carry on luggage and check a bag. I flew to Germany and pretty much everyone had to check their carry on bag because the overhead was full. The reason why the overhead bin is full is because no knows the etiquette!!

[@yaowsers77]

It should be assigned as in labeled with a corresponding seat number.

[@PortableProfessional]

Who knows?! May be one day it will work that way! Happy travels!

[@dennisdelgado7350]

ASSIGNED! At no extra cost, of course!

[@isojosi]

"...and then use the Power of my Head..." 🤣🤣🤣 Best of KZbin!!!

[@LE-cw4br]

Hi Megan! I am from Canada and do a bit of travelling. I love your videos. I had to laugh when you mentioned being short and having to put one's own baggage in the overhead bins. I am 4foot 9inches short...and that is being generous...I think I am starting to shrink...😋. I don't usually ask for help putting my carryon in the bin but often other passengers or the flight attendants feel sorry for me and give me a hand. It not putting my carryon IN the bin that is the problem, it is the removing it OUT of the bin. I don't have the height to get leverage or the control to pull my bag out and often it falls on me and I end up with some bumps and bruises trying to avoid hitting anyone else. Most passengers are really nice to help me out as the struggle is real. Thanks for the great info!

[@jeffreyclinard2002]

I had an ex-boss who liked to stuff his carry on in the first available bin slot. He wanted to get up after the flight and deplane ahead of everybody who stowed their bag near them, then pick it up. I thought he was a jerk for that. On another flight, a woman stowed her bag three rows back. But she didn't want to wait to get her bag. She shoved her way back after we reach the gate, then dragged her back across the rows of seats. She didn't care that she whacked some people on the head. She just said "I need my bag". I thought she was a jerk for that.

[@Kingnome]

A guy drop his hard heavy briefcase while getting it out of the overhead bin. On the way down, it hit my ear and collarbone/shoulder. I yelp in surprise and pain. My glasses went flying. The lady behind him gasp. He didn’t say anything and just walk off. The lady got my glass for me😇. Because I be like Vilma from Scooby Doo looking for my glasses. It was hours until my ear didn’t burn/sting and my collarbone/shoulder ache for days afterwards.

[@bridgetgraham1726]

​@@Kingnome😢

[@TrackerRoo]

They should really push for gate checking those rolling suit cases. People will show up like a sherpa and load up the overhead bin. Not really fair for those just bringing a backpack with them.

[@AlbertusMagnus_44]

Lots of good information. As a personal note, I really don’t like carryon luggage. I am much more comfortable checking my bag. Even a carryon sized bag. I don’t mind waiting for the carousel since I try to allow myself time when traveling and avoid being rushed. Especially long haul flights. My best travel setup is a large checked bag and a personal item backpack with electronics and documents and nothing in the overhead bin. On my last several flights to Europe on big airplanes, the gate agents announced that bin space would probably fill up and asked for volunteers to check carryons for free. So, I just avoid it altogether.

[@andrewkosmowski3985]

When I flew between two European cities, I was told at check-in to surrender my second bag, which I was grateful. I have had a small backpack inside my carry-on for just this purpose. A little rearranging of items from the carry-on into it goes a long way. Pillow, blanket, etc, as well as a change of clothes go into it and I store it at my feet with my iPad. My messenger bag goes above.

[@jp13119]

I’m going to do the same thing because it’s just too dicey on long haul flights. For short flights, I like smaller rolling under seaters.

[@user-mc6jz9er8w]

Megan, I love all of your videos! You give excellent information, clearly and concisely, but you are SO much fun to watch!! keep up the great job and happy travels.

[@cynthiaslebodnik6945]

I just traveled to England, and there was no way I would be able to lift my suitcase overhead into the bin. The flight attendant very kindly assisted me. A nice person helped me to get it down. On the flight home I had to check my carry-on because I had a bag of souvenirs that wouldn't fit into my suitcase. This meant that my personal item went up into the bin. Because I am short I still needed assistance by another kind passenger to get it up into the bin. This may be something to think about on a future flight, checking due to inability to get suitcase up into bin without assistance. Thank you to all who gave me help, all with a smile.

[@avkay12]

Overhead bin space should absolutely positively be assigned. Only after the passengers sitting under a specific bin have been able to avail themselves of that space should another passenger be allowed to use what's left. That should be one of your unwritten rules.

[@HR-wd6cw]

I always just pay a little extra for early boarding to ensure I get bin space near (or at the worst, slightly in front of) my seat. While I know some people will put their stuff up towards the front, I like to keep my carry-on bags near me so I can see and make sure someone doesn't grab my bag by mistake when leaving the airplane as it would be very hard to get it back afterwards. Luckily I haven't had the gate check issue yet really (only on one flight, but everyone had to gate check their bag if it was bigger than a backpack, as it was a CRJ200 and those are very small planes, but everyone gate checked, and everyone got a baggage claim ticket and reclaimed their bags when leaving the aircraft as it was at a regional airport). I would say that bin space should be assigned to the seat, and then only if someone is NOT going to use their bin space, let someone else use it, but everyone should be guaranteed at least one slot per seat on a plane. There will always be at least a few that don't need their bin space, and there will always be afew that will need an extra slot. Or maybe it should be possible for people to prepay for an extra carry-on bin slot if there are enough available (although some airlines don't even ask if you have a carry-on as it's sometimes included with your ticket so they wouldn't likely know who has/doesn't have a carry-on, but some airlines do ask and do charge for carry-ons). I honestly thought most planes were equipped so that each seat had a bin slot available. I know some airlines (or many) are now requiring people to put their bags on their sides to maximize available space, which is a good idea, versus laying them flat, which takes up more space). Perhaps this is a workaround so everyone has a slot to use if they need it. I think seat selection is important though if you think you may need to get to your bag. Nowadays I just take an aisle seat so I can get to my bag, and get to the restroom without bothering other people. I used to like to sit next to the window, but now I actually prefer to be on the aisle. The only inconvenience is if someone has to get out but that's usually pretty minor and so far for me, the benefits have outweighted the negatives. Of course if I'm flying in first or business class, then it's may be different as you can usually walk around the person you are next to without them having to get up.

[@vgshwk]

The problem is there are some rows that don’t have overhead bins or they are reserved for flight crew.

[@jimfromburbankca5253]

Another great video from the "GOAT KZbin Travel Babe" - Here are my recommendations: Buy a larger suitcase but dont fill it all the way up (See Megans Packing Videos). STOP rushing through the airport, and just spend a few minutes by the baggage claim to get your bag (if you fly direct - a Jetsetter Commandment - you wont lose it). Finally, carry on a backpack that is filled with one change of clothes and your travel goodies. People - STOP rushing through the airports. First - you are not that important. Second, you are on vacation. P6 - Proper Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Learn how to travel.

[@wehavefive]

Try "GOAT KZbin Travel Professional." I wouldn't call them babe.

[@Grazilla52]

Yet another very helpful video! As a short woman “of a certain age” it’s pretty much impossible for me to get a regular-sized carryon into the overhead bin so I always have a checked bag. But I do use a smaller rolling business-oriented bag for my camera & emergency clothes that I can hoist up there. My personal item goes under the seat as it should.-I’m fine w/the rules!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks! Good to know you find it helpful!

[@lbunnygordon1133]

Never qgqin a checked bag 1st time it was lost and had to wait 2 weeks in Mex City to get it back no compensation by Aeromexico so cost me so much then bag almost gone twice on intercity buses never will let any bag out of my sight. Totally discriminatory rules if you re only 4ft 10 half a disgrace. Just to get more money nothing to do with safety!!! Am taking a weightless basic daypqck and slightly bigger under seat bag end of story will have to lose half my things as noone to leave with but past caring ❤

[@jp13119]

I also found that I have taken far too much on flights and will not be doing that again. Every country usually has everything it’s just dumb carrying as much as I have in the past.

[@davidburrow5895]

Something I really hate is when the airlines use overhead bins for their own storage rather than for passengers. I once flew in premium economy on Delta, and one of the perks was supposed to be reserved overhead bin space. The entire section above three whole rows was blocked off, though. I get that the safety gear, pillows, and blankets. There really needs to be somewhere to store this stuff other that doesn't take bin space away from passengers.

[@KatieLady4u]

Space above you seat should go with tour assigned seat....I don't understand how it's not

[@PortableProfessional]

It would seem like a simple solution!

[@TutoneEarthling]

i've done 13 long hauls and numerous within the USA. I try to avoid the overhead bins as much as possible. I check a bag and carry on a back pack with change of clothes and electronics that go under the seat. There are times I've been in an exit row and had to use the over head bins. It seems there's always someone looking to move my bag so they can use the space. One time I had to speak up to a gentleman as he tried to move my bag to a different bin, then tried to shove his bag to sit on top of mine. I told him if he was willing to reimburse me in cash on the spot for damage to electronics i'd go along, otherwise he needed to find new space.

[@PortableProfessional]

You were right! Having that exit row seat is one of those times you are entitled to use the bin space for personal items!

[@marcellef8302]

Thanks for the video, Megan. I totally agree with putting your carry-on "like a book" in the overhead bin (when/if the bin is deep & high enough). It would definitely take up less space 👍🧳

[@PortableProfessional]

You're welcome, Marcelle!

[@kimcunningham2662]

I am absolutely team assign the overhead space :)

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for the vote, Kim!

[@petertarantelli]

Very happy you showed the correct way to put the carry-on in the overhead bin, great video!

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad you think so! Thanks, Peter!

[@boomertuber8878]

Well presented, THANKS!

[@PortableProfessional]

My pleasure! Glad you liked it!

[@renferal5290]

I've had to check my carry on bag on short flights because the bins are too small. The long haul flight I did recently, I was forced to check my bag. I was very happy indeed when it arrived with me :)

[@TheresaWagar]

Lol. Yes opening your carry on suitcase would be a major problem during a fire on the airplane. Wait! There is a fire 🔥 on the plane! I think the open carryon is the least of our problems if there is a fire

[@magietagie]

Great tips and advise! I think assigning the overhead bins is a great idea!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thank you, Magie!

[@marleneprescott895]

Totally agree!

[@vgshwk]

⁠@@PortableProfessionalwith most airlines people paying for assigned seats they should get an overhead bin.

[@vgshwk]

The problem is not every row has full size overhead bins and I’ve also seen some assigned for flight crew.

[@geoff1971]

I have only ever used the over head bins once, learnt 20 years ago " don't ever do that again" these days I have a backpack with a puzzle book, 2 pens, a roll up plush blanket, headphones, book to read, a hoodie , gym pants and my personal papers( passport, boarding pass drivers licence, etc.) In it and I shove the backpack under the seat. Sometimes I take my laptop but usually I leave that at home.

[@bridgetgraham1726]

Assigned 😊

[@sxceve25]

Learn something everyday..👌🏾

[@PortableProfessional]

Great to hear! Thanks for watching!

[@chuckgibson7026]

I propose an exception to your rule that only larger carry-on bags should go in the overhead bin. If one is traveling with only two personal items (e.g. a backpack and a computer bag) and they both will not fit under the seat, then it is OK to put one in the overhead bin.

[@claudiamiller7730]

Agreed…that’s how I roll!

[@troigrl]

You’re taking advantage then with 2 carry-on and not a personal bag

[@conniekershaw4412]

You should only have one bag/suitcase/roller/backpack etc in the overhead bin. The other item under the seat. Get one of your items to be small enough to fit under the seat!

[@CABNoLimit]

I’ve been on flights where there is no seat in-front of me and no space for my personal underneath my seat.

[@chuckgibson7026]

@@conniekershaw4412 I guess I was not clear: Each bag will fit under the seat by itself, but not both of them together.

[@leesdoley9308]

ASSIGNED. FREE. We pay enough it should include space above seat and under.

[@bg02261989]

A lot of airlines offer complimentary check in the carry on bags. That's the best way to avoid the hassle of the overhead bin space and there's less chance that the bag gets lost as you already brought it to the aircraft. That's the best way to enjoy a smooth flight and a better comfort on board and if you have a connecting flight you avoid the hassle to drag your carry on across the endless terminals in major airports as most of the time the bag is tagged to the final destination and you pass security or customs faster and smoother. When you arrive at your destination your bag will be waiting for you at the carrousel.

[@patriciateague8677]

I flew solo in March and was concerned about lifting my bag. Hadn't had to do that in a long time. I actually practiced before flying and exercised a bit to gain some arm strength. I know I could ask a fellow passenger for help but I really wanted to be able to do it on my own. The regional airline went in fine. I wasn't prepared for how much higher the bin was on the larger plane. I got my bag in but made sure to use my hips and legs and have a good grip on the bag. Your suggested process was very helpful.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great that you were able to manage it yourself! Thanks for being on the channel, Patricia!

[@offhamsterwheel2789]

im reminded to avoid touching another passenger's items /luggages, it that item turns out to contain illegal items, they will blame u.

[@_Garrison19]

Gate check your roller bag! It's free and you don't have to worry about not finding a bin. Those in the final groups getting to board look absolutely stupid walking onboard with a roller bag, looking with amazement when they don't see open space!

[@tammypearson4500]

Always look forward to Sunday morning videos from you, Megan! I knew watching this video that the comments would be gold and I'm not disappointed! I wonder why some feel they need to put their jacket or backpack in the overhead bins if they didn't bring a carry-on bag? I have had a carry-on bag slung out of the overhead bin and hit me in the head. I saw stars... and I was furious. Anyway, love your channel and looking forward to your next video!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks, Tammy! It's great having you on the channel!

[@honorahs.3262]

I am packing for an international flight, haven't traveled since before covid hit and for the first time in years I am traveling without my 6' hubby. I am 5' and know I will struggle with the overhead...which brings me here! Thank you for the tips. I think having purchased a seat towards the back may get me time to actually find a space and I will practice your lifting technique!

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad it was helpful. I expect you will manage just fine and if not I'll bet there is a fellow passenger ready to help. Have a great flight!

[@lpal9561]

I check 1 bag and only carry on a backpack that also holds my purse and put it under the seat. I prefer to avoid the overhead storage so I have access to anything I want during the flight. I also have a smaller bag of in-flight items and my Kindle that I remove from my backpack so I usually don’t need to access my backpack at all.

[@sarai72]

I prefer assigned and I don’t mind paying for it as long as it’s a reasonable price.

[@Rhaspun]

Yes they should assign the over head space to the row of seats that are directly below it.

[@215618680]

You have probably experienced seeing a passenger stuff two carry-on bags/duffle bags into overhead bins (in addition to having their hand-held personal bag). Why don’t the airlines enforce the rule of one bag per person?

[@EGO0808]

Frequent flyers often are entitled to 2 carry on bags and even 2 personal item bags.

[@blureader1164]

This is a much needed video. I think as passengers start having to pay extra for certain seats in economy, we will start feeling "entitled" to the bin space above the seat. Even though I pay extra, I still am in the last zone for boarding because I sit in aisle seats. On my next trip, on a NON-budget airline, I chose to pay $100 extra for an economy seat, so yes, I want the bin space above my seat. The airlines should not charge extra for seats or offer to gate check (for free) the carry on if the bins close to those seats are full. I don't mind checking the bag, since I check a bag anyway. The last time this happened to me, the flight attendant stowed my bag. I agree with you though, look for bin space by your seat, otherwise take it where you can find it.

[@marinellcarrothers153]

We have an international flight coming up where we will be in the emergency exit and there is no seat in front of us. We will have to put our personal items up in the overhead bin. That situation aside, I totally agree with everything you said.

[@Kingnome]

I saw this on a flight from Seattle to London. I felt for them😔.

[@omarathmar8465]

Thanks gabby

[@jpgaffney3594]

Thank You Megan! Awesome content. It thought it was ironic you stated technically you should not place your personnel item (jackets, purses, backpack, etc.) in the overhead bins. In the video at 1:27 did just that :) Shame on him. J/K. He must have boarded late, and it was a light flight.

[@jamesnichols2511]

I've found your videos to be very informative and helpful. Since I haven't traveled much by plane, I'm going to be taking my first international flight in a couple months and need to learn as much as I can to make my flight a nice memory, not a nightmare. So thank you for your information, I've just subscribed and will watch for other tips. PS...you are very pleasant to listen to. Keep up the good work.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thank you so much, James! I wish you a smooth flight experience!

[@Bravo21]

Great advice Megan. I would like to say that imho you should never pack your passport of visa paperwork. Keep your passport and documents on your person, either in your pocket, neck wallet or in your personal bag/backpack. Passports are valuable and are often stolen, keep it safe.

[@PortableProfessional]

I agree! Thanks for watching!

[@GRAPHICUSERINTERFACE]

stop the whistle! haha, good content thou

[@Mickcotton]

Thank You So Much 😊Grateful for your Advice. Aloha 🌸✅

[@PortableProfessional]

You are so welcome!

[@debrathomason9949]

Airlines also allow medical equipment to be carried on in addition to your carryon luggage. I once took a trip with my husband and had one bag with clothing, a CPAP machine, a dialysis machine and a bag of dialysis supplies all in the overhead bin. Our personal item bags had medications and documents. I did feel a little guilty but I did what had to be done.

[@andyw8984]

Don’t feel guilty, you were every bit as entitled to use the space as a person who was just trying to squeeze a suitcase in the space to save money. Suitcases are able to go in the hold, medical equipment is not.

[@j2simpso]

On many aircraft there is a small metal step below the seats you can use to lift yourself up to the correct height of the overhead locker

[@jenniferjohnson2108]

Assigned !

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching, Jennifer!

[@paulinamiramontes3787]

I would open the bin just in case because yes sometimes the bins look full because the 2 people in front put everything they carry into the bin and put the carry on flat instead of on its size. I have watched several flight reviews where the boarding process has just begun but the people choose to put the carry on or extra stuff in the first bin they find when their seat is all the way to the back and everything was wide open. Praise to the flight attendant that called on that person and asked them to not put their stuff there if their seat was not near that particular bin

[@PortableProfessional]

Always good to use the bin nearest you when possible but not always easy to enforce. I like that flight attendant!

[@miltonwaltercompanyllc9605]

Too bad. I have no intention of moving my backpack to make room for your steamer trunk. Why am I denied overhead space if I only carried a backpack on board?

[@juicebox853]

100% correct. The entitled Karen's want your 1 item under the seat, so they can bring 3 items because they are too cheap and inconvenienced to check a bag.

[@mynameismudd3134]

I was in the Army infantry and I travel with a backpack. When I see people dragging those wheeled suitcase things behind them I find it disgusting.

[@christybolagner8712]

I like to board last and there were a couple times where I had to check-in my carry-on, no big deal. I traveled w/ one of my sisters a couple of weeks ago and I was embarrassed. She got sassy w/ the flight attendant and I have to say, my sis was in the wrong. My sis put her backpack and purse in the overhead bin. FA wanted to put the backpack across our seat and my sis was like, "No". FA was just trying to make room for the other passengers. I apologized on her behalf when she was sleeping.

[@bissmasatria5744]

Thank you for guide at airport on youtube channel 👍

[@brendonsgirl21]

There's definitely some good advice here. As a short person, I can get my suitcase in the overhead storage, but it's a totally different story for getting it out. 😅

[@PortableProfessional]

I hear you! lol Thanks for watching!

[@gordonyates7972]

They should be!!!!

[@davidignacio3009]

There has to be a strict enforcement that the overhead bin should be specifically and exclusively allocated only to the persons whose ticket / seat number correspond to the number in the overhead bin. If there is extra space, then another person's carry on bag can be placed there. It is most annoying if you are assigned a seat and the overhead bin above you is already occupied by the bag of another passenger not even in your row making you look for another bin to put your luggage which usually is far away from where you are seated.

[@davewilliamson4357]

I love smaller planes where they will announce before boarding that they probably won't have enough overhead bin space for everyone's carry-on luggage and ask for volunteers to gate check their bag. It doesn't go to the carousel, you just pick it up right outside of the plane door when you arrive. That's the best. I've had that happen in Europe a few times as well but had to pick it up on the tarmac since there was no boarding bridge. However, when I'm in Europe, I usually just pay a little extra for pre-boarding (depending on the airline) so I don't have to worry about it.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Easyjet already charge for using this space. Also, good luck if you’re flying in Steerage and try using a bin in Business Class. It’s exceedingly unlikely that the Cabin Crew will let you.

[@elnamayberry]

I have seen an airline allowing passengers to book overhead space (for a fee, of course). Also some airlines are taking advantage of passengers checking fewer bags (so generating less revenue for them) and charging for carry on bags as well as checked bags.

[@kryssygee4814]

Omg why do people not know this!!!!!

[@maxallen-macdonald8791]

It drives me nuts to see folks laying the suitcase on its side rather than its edge. They even have a drawing showing how they are to be stored, for heaven's sake. Makes me crazy!

[@drbcrb]

I think the Lufthansa 747 I was last on had seat rows on the bin door

[@vgshwk]

It usually means if you are the last to board you are fd which means you are forced to have it stored underneath and it will add 30 minutes to your travel to get your forced stored back or worry if it will get on your connecting flight. Or if you are connecting on another airline you are forced to lose time to get your bag on another airline.

[@jaytee6586]

Just had a long flight from Incheon to Seattle and so annoying to see people putting both their carryon luggage and personal items in the overhead bin. Personal items should always be underneath the seat in front of you. Just because you wanna be comfortable doesn't mean another passenger have to check in their carryon because you're hogging extra space in the overhead bin.

[@imajhawk11]

Why don’t you check you carry on. Just because it’s a carry on doesn’t mean you can’t check it.

[@jaytee6586]

@@imajhawk11 because i wanna get out of the airport asap instead of waiting for checked in luggage in baggage claim?

[@TinaLee2042]

On Delta if you pay for comfort plus or select comfort it comes with assigned bin space. Didn’t happen to us, but did see someone headed to the back put theirs behind the bulkhead seat in front of us (Comfort+). The attendant removed the bag and moved it back about 10 seats. I hope the person who chose not to put their bag near their seat had good luck finding it at the end of the flight.

[@DavidWood2]

I've seen similar in BA short-haul - economy passengers trying to put their bags in bins in the business class section at the front of the plane. Whilst business passengers will be in group 1 for boarding, so they are entitled to board as soon as all assistance passengers with pre-boarding have boarded, some business passengers might choose to board last, as is their right. The cabin crew required the economy passengers to move their bags back into the economy section.

[@davidjewood]

I always help others putting their luggage in to the over head lockers.

[@mickeyhead9770]

Bin spaces should be assigned according to your seat.

[@sandyhumissouri5131]

Not every seat has bin space 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@merianjones2449]

Hi Megan I always enjoy watching you. You make awesome videos. I wonder if you know this. I am flying with United Airlines at the end of the month. I bought the cheapest ticket which is basic economy. I didn’t realize that I can only bring a personal item bag. No carry on bag with wheels. I can’t change my ticket because it is restricted. Do you know if I can pay extra so I can bring a carry on suitcase? Hope you can give me your professional advice. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. We all benefit from it.

[@yourfavoritefrog]

On all the French Cies I fly with , the crew members help you put your carry on right above your seat. You are not supposed to use the room above someone else's seat and you are supposed to be limited to your space.

[@victoriaaletaaustria2817]

Airlines should mandatorily inform the passengers that only 1 carry-on per passenger is allowed inside the overhead bins ASSIGNED (AT NO FEE) TO PASSENGERS ON SEATS DIRECTLY ABOVE THE BIN TO AVOID ARGUMENTS whether the passenger is not the first to get in the aircraft (because there are passengers who inserted themselves to get in when it is not yet their seats sequence to board, and the airline staff didn't tell them to go back, it's not their turn yet.) Sometimes the airline is late to start boarding so people just run or hurriedly walk to the tube to enter first. Likewise, passengers should be reminded other personal items like backpacks, shopping bags bought from DutyFree, hat, purse, etc. should be under the seats. I saw a man one time he placed his DutyFree shopping bag, the coat he removed, and even a small bag and the passenger in his row had no space for his handcarry wheeled luggage. This happened to me too, there were 2 Caucasians who put their huge backpacks, didn't checked-in (in 90s when wasn't strict yet) which occupied the whole bin and I used to bring a smaller wheeled handcarry then. I'm Asian so I stepped on my aisle chair in my trouser socks, swiped the backpacks to create space and I placed my wheeled handcarry luggage, and closed the bin. But in my latest European trips, I don't put in overhead nin my small carry-on anymore, I checked it in, because I've gotten older and sometimes there was no tube, imagine going down plane stairs with a luggage even how light and small it is! Or traversing verrrry far boarding gates, hot to adjust. I learned to travel light on my European trips.

[@judybage4083]

Jet 2 charge for guarantee over head space now. (UK) never used it so not sure if it is indeed guaranteed.

[@conniekershaw4412]

Assign the overhead bin. It's ok to charge. Just your suitcase should be in the overhead bins

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching, Connie!

[@tesyperaza5328]

Carry-on bag be above your seat would best.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for watching!

[@_echobravo]

I typically travel very light on overnight business trips where I can get away with just a work bag. But I’ve been hassled enough about placing it in overhead bins that I started taking a bag 4X the size I need to stop the ridicule. I guess I have big feet and I just don’t like anything under the seat in front of me 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ginwilcox9922]

It should be assigned and bag size limited to fit in the row above your seat. Thieves can target carry-on luggage which might have laptops and other valuables in it. If it is too far in front or behind, this is an issue.

[@melinasingh5711]

Thank you for your tips im a bit worried cause i will be traveling this week and im short person so im hoping some one will be kind to help me put my bag in the overhead bin

[@PortableProfessional]

Have a safe trip, Melina!

[@grantcampbell3264]

Use option 3

[@letterbox203]

I like that if the flight runs out of overhead bin space they will check your bag for free. Hey, way better than your luggage getting loat. My tip is to try to get bin space above or in front of your seat, not behind! This makes getting off much easier.

[@PortableProfessional]

This is true!

[@CellyChannelings]

Subject to the flight attendants instructions, the biggest thing I'm carrying goes in the overhead bin. That's going to be it because I just bring my backpack. This costs me time, money and planning so I will expect the same of my fellow passengers. It isn't going where my feet belong just to accommodate the "travel savvy" folks who don't check a bag or pack light. Without an FA being on their side, that is.

[@michaelatopalov1990]

I don’t like to pay for a seat assignment so I am always in the back. I don’t mind but the first overhead bins to fill up are always in the back. Flight attendants keep their things there. My solution is just to look for the first available bin for the carry on. I also prefer to keep my personal item by my feet to prop my feet on. While just returning home from South America I noticed they were telling passengers to stick carry ons with wheels first. Ahhh if only they would listen! Being patient and treating others as you would like to be treated is the secret!

[@mr-vet]

My carry-on bag for the overhead bin will only be placed within a couple of seats from mine….if I can’t get up and reach it from a step or so from my seat, it is too far away. People who stuff their bag in an overhead bin near the plane entrance/exit on their way to their seat further back on the plane is a no-go for me and I call them out.

[@josephcollins6033]

You know so much! Perhaps you will be the one to answer this: I want to travel to England with a "carry-on" and a "personal items" backpack for under the seat. My travel agent says that I can only take TWO pieces on that plane (British Airways from Nashville). And, yet, I always see videos for these demos with a woman dragging her carry-on, holding a backpack AND CARRYING HER PURSE! I bought a man purse for this trip. Will they say anything to me? I would rather not have to cram the man purse into my backpack! Thanks, I love Ollie, and I see that you do, too! And, he sure loves you!

[@davesaunders7080]

Great info, will put it to the test today. Note the 787 can have baggage vertical and the 777 has to have it flat so as you mentioned each aircraft will differ in the loading capacity.

[@PortableProfessional]

Have a great flight!

[@davesaunders7080]

@@PortableProfessional Thx AC came thru today, carry on in above bin and on time departure and early arrival yay

[@jwhitby92]

Just had a problem with our luggage and checked carry-on and then lost for 2 days. We had them sent to the hotel when found, but in the meantime, we had to find a store to purchase more clothing to get by.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is frustrating and a good reason not keep essentials in a carry on! Hope the rest of your trip was smooth!

[@KiloWhiskey716]

Is a 40L backpack small enough as a personal item?

[@christinemiller8723]

Assigned. Too many people take FULL-SIZE luggage on planes! Full-size is NOT carry on!! Key word...SMALL backpack...NOT HUGE!! Just pay the damn $30 and check your bag.

[@ganymedes62]

I guess my perk begins with airlines allowing people to board with more than two items. Those people should be stopped at the gate and not allowed to board unless they either check the excess items or repack everything into just two. And that has to happen BEFORE they get onto the jetbridge, not while they're on it!

[@DavidWood2]

Some exceptions exist to the "one carry-on and one personal item" situation. I have to fly with some electronic respiratory equipment (with hospital paperwork confirming that it is a device I need with me for important medical reasons) and am sometimes required to carry my wheelchair batteries in the cabin rather than leave them in the chair. In these cases, the policy of the airline I usually fly is to accept these as additional cabin items. I always work with the crew to stow my possessions using as little bin space as possible.

[@koenven7012]

@@DavidWood2 this is true, but an exception. Most people with more than 2 items have done a lot of airport shopping or just don't want to pay for a checked bag (if you fly on an airline where this is at extra cost). And if everybody kept to the limits, your few extra necessary items aren't going to be a problem.

[@DavidWood2]

@@koenven7012 I agree. I was merely pointing out that automatically judging those with more than one personal item and one carry-on is inappropriate. Unfortunately, those who break the rules for their convenience or to avoid charges make flying harder for the rest of us.

[@ceceb6264]

Overheard bin space should be assigned

[@tessat338]

I just bought a rolling bag that is advertised as fitting beneath the seat of an airplane. I'm curious to see if it really does fit.

[@PortableProfessional]

Sounds like it would be a great weekender bag! Hope it fits!

[@anakerose]

I will often wait until after everyone has boarded and then I'll put my jacket up in the overhead bin if there's space. Works some flights, and others it doesn't so Ill use it as a pillow.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's fair and considerate! Happy travels!

[@brianwatts5482]

I’ve never been told I couldn’t put my small backpack in the overhead bin. I also take a smaller bag under the seat.

[@duckypam]

You absolutely can. This is just a large carry on person trying to make you feel bad for using space you are allowed to use imho lol