In this post, I’ve put together the list of the best underseat luggage in 2023 that would fit conveniently under the seat in front of you.
There’s nothing worse than scrambling for a spot to keep your bag, only to realize that there’s no more room in the overhead bin of the plane.
A decent underseat luggage gets rid of the problem, particularly when you have only one hand luggage.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the best options on the market so that you can make an informed decision and never have to scramble for a packed overhead bin again!
So, whether you’re looking for a small briefcase-style bag or something larger that can hold all your belongings, be sure to check out these best underseat luggage!
Ready? Let’s go.
Best Underseat Luggage 2023
In a hurry? Here is a preview of the top best underseat luggage in 2023!
Best Underseat Luggage with Wheels
- Samsonite underseater with USB Port
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Bag
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Rolling Cabin Bag
- Rockland Melrose 16-inch Upright Wheeled Underseater Carry-On Luggage
- Steve Madden Luggage Wheeled Suitcase Under Seat Bag
- Delsey Paris Chatelet Soft Air Luggage Under-Seater
Reviewed below are the best underseat luggage with wheels you can carry when you want to ensure that your bag fits under the seat in front of you without any problem.
Summary:The Samsonite Spinner Underseater offers the convenience of a USB port and the mobility of a spinner suitcase.
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line rolling best underseat luggage, the Samsonite Spinner Underseater is a great choice.
The Samsonite luggage company is behind this bag, so you know that it comes with all the high-end features and quality construction that you would expect, including a durable construction, smooth-rolling wheels, and plenty of storage space.
Measuring 16.5 x 13.75 x 9 inches with a weight of 5.6 lbs, it fits the luggage size restrictions of most airlines as a personal item, effectively making it one of the best underseat luggage with wheels.
The built-in USB port is a great feature, allowing you to charge your phone or other devices on the go (power bank is not included).
This suitcase features a spacious interior for your clothes and other items as well as many pockets including a padded compartment for your laptop and tablet, making it perfect for short trips or long journeys alike.
There are also zippered pockets on the exterior of the bag for keeping your small belongings organized and easy to access.
Even better, it is one of the best underseat luggage with spinner wheels!
The four spinner wheels and push-button handle make it easy to maneuver through airports and other crowded areas, without any noise.
Additionally, it features a luggage sleeve on the back of the bag that allows you to slide it over the handle of a larger rolling bag.
Plus, it is durable and can handle a lot of wear and tear.
What we also love
This case is compact, practical, and comes in a selection of eye-catching colors for you to choose from.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port is a great option.
What’s not great
The Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port is great for short trips, but there are a few drawbacks.
First, some people have mentioned that the laptop sleeve placement is not ideal for quick in-airport access and doesn’t fit laptops larger than 15″.
Also, TSA locks are not included, so you’ll need to buy your own.
Overall, this is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality, modern carry-on bag.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Bag
Summary: The Maxlite Rolling bag is light, compact, and organization friendly.
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Bag is one of the best underseat luggage that can be used for both overnighter and weekend getaways.
This rolling bag is designed to fit under most airplane seats, making it perfect for avoiding checked baggage fees.
And at only 5.5 pounds with a dimension of 17.5 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches, this 26-liter bag is one of the lightest rolling bags on the market.
The Maxlite 5 also has plenty of storage space, with multiple compartments and pockets to keep all of your belongings organized.
It has a roomy interior to hold your shoes and clothing, two exterior zippered side pockets for a small umbrella/ water bottle as well as a small zippered pocket on the front for cell phone, boarding pass, battery pack, pens, and keys.
Still, there’s more.
There are padded pockets for your 14” laptop and tablet.
With a removable and water-resistant toiletry organizer, packing your cosmetics or toiletries is one thing you won’t have to stress about.
What’s more?
The durable, stain-resistant polyester fabric will stand up to years of wear and tear.
What we also love
This bag is versatile.
You can carry it over your shoulder with the removable padded shoulder strap or carry it with the top handle, or slip this bag onto your luggage for hand-free movement
Plus, the inline skate wheels rolling design makes getting around the airport a breeze.
What’s not great
There are a couple of minor cons to the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Rolling Underseat Carry-on Bag.
Firstly, the handle doesn’t seem to lock in place unless it is fully extended. This can be a bit annoying if you’re trying to carry the bag short distances and don’t want to extend the handle all the way out.
Additionally, the rear strap at the back of this Maxlite 5 travel bag that allows you to attach it to a suitcase is flimsy and some reviewers mentioned that it gets torn easily.
All in all, this Amazon bestseller comes highly recommended with tons of positive feedback from users who can’t seem to get enough of its style and durability.
Briggs & Riley Baseline Rolling Cabin Bag
Summary: The Baseline Rolling Cabin gives you the convenience of a rolling bag with an expandable storage capacity and the durability of a Briggs & Riley bag.
If you’re looking for an expandable underseat luggage option that fits easily into most overhead bins, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Rolling Cabin is a great choice.
It’s perfect for short trips and comes with the convenience of a rolling bag.
It has two wheels (there’s also a spinner version as well) that are sturdy because they are integrated into the frame and also easy to transport on different terrains.
Its aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle with multiple stops makes it easy to maneuver through airports a lot easier.
Even better, the Baseline is roomy and features an array of handy pockets for easy organization.
The interior can fit items for a weekend trip, and I like that it can easily be expanded if you need to pack more.
On the exterior of this bag, there’s a front pocket that can fit an iPad or other item you need easy access to, as well as two side pockets for water bottle storage and other small travel essentials.
Also, it’s made from ballistic nylon, which is the most durable material for softside luggage.
And with the stellar reputation that’s associated with the Briggs and Riley brand, you can trust that this cabin bag is incredibly durable and is worth your investment.
What we also love
It’s backed by Briggs & Riley’s famous lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that it will last for many trips to come.
Plus even if your luggage is damaged by the airline, they will repair it for you free of charge (excluding shipping). That’s a pretty good peace of mind to have especially if you’ll be shelling over $400 on a piece of luggage!
And if you’re interested in the best underseat luggage with spinner wheels, there’s a version of it as well.
What’s not so great
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Rolling Cabin bag is a great option for those looking for one of the best underseat luggage that’s lightweight, durable, and easy to carry.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering this piece of luggage.
The first downside is that if you overstuff the bag, it may be a bit more difficult to squeeze under the seat. So just be mindful not to pack too much and you’ll be good to go!
Also, it is one of the best underseat luggage that carries a hefty price tag.
However, if you’re willing to splurge on this top-of-the-line option, you’ll be getting a high-quality bag that will last for years to come.
Rockland Melrose 16-inch Upright Wheeled Underseater Carry-On Luggage
Summary: The Melrose 16-Inch is a great choice for a small, lightweight piece of luggage that can be easily carried and fits under your seat.
The Rockland Melrose 16-Inch Wheeled Underseater Luggage is one of the best underseat luggage perfect for taking on short trips!
It is durable, lightweight, and stylish!
And at just 16 inches wide, this bag can fit easily under most airplane seats or in the overhead compartment!
It’s compact and lightweight, with a retractable handle that makes it easy to fits under your seat and in overhead compartments.
What’s more?
The Rockland rolling backpack is very spacious
It features a spacious main compartment and 2 interior pockets perfect for storing your overnight change of clothes, toiletries, shoes, electronic gadgets, or other small personal items you want to keep with you on the plane.
The two water bottle mesh pockets and two pockets on the exterior of the underseater are perfect for holding your boarding pass or any other last-minute items you need to grab before heading to the gate.
Loved for being tough and lightweight, this best underseat luggage with wheel is made of polyester fabric.
While this material is not as sturdy as nylon or cordura material that’s used on more expensive bags, it is however quite lightweight, and strong enough to protect the content of your bag.
The bag has a two-wheeled inline skate system as well as a storable telescopic handle that makes maneuvering it a breeze, whether you’re rolling it through an airport or schlepping it up a flight of stairs.
What we also love
The Rockland Melrose underseater luggage is a great little piece of luggage for domestic and international travel.
You can roll it along on its wheels or carry it by its soft handles.
It’s also got a luggage sleeve that allows you to attach it to the handle of another larger piece of rolling luggage if needed. This makes it easy to transport through busy airports.
Even better, the Melrose luggage is fashionable and is available in many colors choice options.
What’s not great
While the Rockland Melrose 16-inch Wheeled Underseater Luggage is a good option for leisure travel, it may not be the best option for business travel, and here’s why.
First, it doesn’t fit a 15″ laptop well.
So, if you’re looking for something to store your computer in while traveling, this might not be the best option.
Second, there’s no TSA lock, which can be an inconvenience if you’re trying to travel quickly through the airport.
Third, some people have said that the design isn’t great for business travel because its colors and design might not be as professional-looking as you’d like.
Despite these few shortcomings, however, the Rockland Melrose Underseater is still one of the best underseat luggage options for those looking for a practical and durable piece of luggage.
Summary: the Steve Madden underseat rolling bag is light and ideal for carrying onboard an airplane.
The Steve Madden luggage wheeled suitcase under the seat bag is just the right size for air travel.
At 5lbs, it’s light, so you won’t have to worry about lugging a heavy bag around the airport, and its compact size means that you can fit it easily in most airplane seats.
Even better, the Steve Madden wheeled bag is overflowing with features that make travel a breeze.
For starters, its telescopic push-button handle system is especially handy, since it allows you to easily maneuver it through busy airports and crowded streets.
Additionally, the bag’s sturdy top grab handles make it easy to lift in and out of cars or overhead bins.
Plus, the 2-wheels make it easy to pull through the airport or train station. I highly recommend this bag to anyone who travels frequently!
The bag has a spacious main compartment and several smaller pockets, perfect for keeping all of your travel essentials close at hand.
Whether you’re packing for a business trip or a vacation, Steve Madden has the perfect luggage solution for you.
What we also love
The Steve Madden Wheeled Underseat bag is a stylish and quality piece of luggage.
Its unique design is eye-catching and is made of durable polyester material, so it will last through many travels.
Whether you’re taking a quick business trip or a leisurely vacation, this bag will make packing a breeze.
What’s not great
If you’re looking for a lightweight and convenient carry-on suitcase, the Steve Madden Luggage Wheeled Suitcase Under Seat Bag is a great option.
However, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind.
The plastic wheels on this underseat bag are surprisingly noisy. So, you definitely won’t want to use this bag if you’re trying to be discreet, or if you value quiet while traveling!
Additionally, the suitcase isn’t always the easiest to maneuver, particularly if it’s packed full.
But overall, it’s still a great choice for those who need a compact and convenient underseat bag.
Whether you’re going on a business trip or a weekend getaway, this suitcase will make packing a breeze.
Summary: The Chatelet Air Underseater makes for a chic yet practical personal item for air travel.
This under-seater from Delsey is the best underseat luggage if you’re looking for something both stylish and practical.
Measuring 14.5 x 14 x 9 inches, it’s small enough to easily fit under the seat in front of you without taking up too much space.
It’s a part of the iconic Chatelet collection, so you know it’s top quality.
This piece of luggage is made of water-resistant polyester, with vegan-leather trims and a soft interior, so it’s sure to keep your belongings safe and sound.
And it comes with two wheels for easy maneuverability.
It has a roomy main compartment with adjustable straps and pockets to help you organize your clothing and shoes.
There are also interior pockets and a free pouch for toiletries and other small items.
Better yet, this underseater features smooth-rolling in-line wheels, a top grab handle, and an easy-to-control telescopic handle that make getting around the airport a breeze.
What we also love
There’s also a trolley sleeve to conveniently slide it over your wheeled luggage handles via its band on the back.
Plus, the colorful design will add a touch of personality to your travel style.
What’s not great
This Delsey Paris Chatelet Soft Air Luggage Under-Seater is a great option for those looking for a smaller piece of luggage to take on board.
That said, it’s not the most spacious option and may not be suitable for those with a lot of belongings.
So, if you’re looking to pack a lot of items, this might not be the best option for you.
Overall, this is a well-made and durable piece of luggage that is sure to come in handy on your next trip.
The travel backpacks reviewed below are lightweight, spacious and practical with enough compartments and organizational features.
They are designed to fit under the seat of most airlines.
Summary: The Tortuga Outbreaker is a travel-friendly backpack for modern and digital nomads.
If you are looking for one of the best travel backpacks with enough space, the Tortuga Outbreaker backpack is your guy.
I’ve heard such great things about this carry-on backpack and the most common praise for it is that it’s incredibly lightweight, yet still packs a punch when it comes to fitting all your belongings in.
Weighing just 4.6lbs, the Outbreaker is one of the best underseat luggage you can travel with without needing to check your baggage.
It has the capacity of a suitcase, but with a lightweight build and an ergonomic weight distribution that makes the load easier to carry all day.
The Tortuga Outbreaker is a frontloading backpack which means you can easily access your belongings without having to navigate through a maze of straps and buckles.
It is also loaded with plenty of zipped compartments inside the backpack for your tech, and other essentials, allowing you to separate your belongings accordingly.
Interestingly, the Outbreaker is comfortable to carry.
This 35L one-bag travel solution is stuffed with features: a protected 15” laptop compartment, sternum strap & waist belt, and contoured back panel with padded straps for all-day comfort.
What we also love
Made with a 900D polyester with a water-resistant coating and lockable YKK zippers, it has a clean design without any distracting straps.
The lockable zippers also give you more confidence when traveling as it’d be much harder for others to get into your backpack without permission.
You can learn more about them and their production process at https://blog.tortugabackpacks.com.
What’s not great
The Outbreaker is a great backpack for people who want a stylish and functional travel backpack.
However, the harness system and tech compartment take up a lot of space and weight, which can be a nuisance if you’re trying to cut down on luggage size.
Additionally, the bag is a bit on the expensive side.
All in all, it is a well-made backpack with some great features.
Summary: The Matein backpack keeps your items secured and accessible on both daily use and weekend getaways.
If you are looking for well-rated backpacks you can travel with, the Matein rolling backpack is your guy.
As one of the best underseat luggage, it measures 20 x 13 x 8 inches and fits under the seat or overhead compartments of most airlines.
Great for either daily use or weekend getaways, this 40L bag comes with multiple compartments and pockets to perfectly organize all your stuff while still being able to find what you need quickly.
For one, it has a shoe compartment to keep your kicks separate from the clean content in your bag. Even better, this storage is breathable, spacious (fits size 10-12 shoes), and can also be used to keep items such as toiletries.
There is also a separated and padded 15.6 laptop compartment as well as an organizer compartment with lots of pockets for your tablet, mouse, charger, Pens, etc.
The best part?
It also features a USB charging port, a luggage strap for hands-free transport, and a hidden back pocket to protect your passport, cellphone, wallet, or other valuable items from thieves.
And the Matein travel bag is well made of water-repellent and durable nylon fabric with lockable metal zippers.
However, the laptop compartment doesn’t come with lockable zippers, you need to buy one yourself.
What we also love
The Matein backpack is not only highly rated and affordable on Amazon, but it is also great for school, business trips, and even outdoor activities backpack.
Even better, this bag boasts of a comfortable harness system including a padded and breathable back panel and shoulder straps.
What’s more?
The addition of an anti-theft pocket at the back and a handy luggage strap make the bag easy to use for travel.
What’s not great
The Matein Travel Backpack is a budget-friendly backpack that has some great features.
However, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind.
One is that for a big bag, it doesn’t come with a chest strap, so if you need extra support, you’ll have to buy one separately.
The bottom pocket for shoes eats into the main part of the backpack, taking up space and the pockets become very tight once you put stuff in the main part of the backpack.
Additionally, the quality of the bag has been called into question by some users, who worry that it may not be durable enough to last for long-term travel.
Overall, the backpack is a great value and has some features that make it worth considering as one of the best underseat luggage.
These light underseat bag without wheels will fit under the seats in most aircraft and gives you easy access to the content of your bag mid-flight.
Summary: Travelpro Maxlite 5 is lightweight and spacious, with plenty of organizational pockets.
If you’re looking for the best underseat luggage tote bag sized for light travel, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Soft Tote Bag is definitely worth considering.
The Maxlite measures 18 x 11 x 8 inches and weighs 1.6 lbs, which means you can confidently travel with this baby as a personal item for flights, whether you’re using it as an under-seat carry-on for your essentials or as a small all-in-one bag for short trips.
It’s roomy enough to hold all your essentials, yet still fits easily under the seat in front of you.
And the lightweight design makes it easy to carry, even when it’s full.
With this 28L weekend tote, packing is breezy.
It comes with roomy interior space and external pockets to keep your smaller items organized and within easy reach.
You can carry a tablet, clothes, documents, magazines and more inside.
Note: do not expand or overstuff the bag with lots of items, so as not to exceed airline restrictions.
It’s made from durable, stain-resistant polyester fabric with water repellent coating on the exterior and HZ0 Guard protected interior lining that keeps away moisture.
Also, this bag is versatile.
You can carry it over your shoulder with the removable padded shoulder strap or carry it with the top handle, or attach it to a suitcase for hand-free movement
Plus, it comes with a handy shoulder strap for easy portability.
What we also love
With its sturdy build and functionality, the Maxlite Tote is great for car and train travel also.
It has got everything you would ever need for a comfortable adventure or weekend getaways – ample space, removable shoulder strap, external pockets, and smooth zippers.
What’s not great
There seem to be quite a few complaints online about the zippers on the Maxlite Tote not working properly. And some people have even said that the zippers have a tendency to get stuck, which is frustrating.
It’s also not great that the bag makes direct contact with the ground when placed down, as this could potentially cause dirt, dust, and even wear and tear.
Overall, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Soft Tote Bag is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and durable underseat carry-on bag.
WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag
Summary: This WANDF duffel bag is foldable and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your travels.
Are you looking for a travel duffel bag that is both lightweight and foldable?
If so, you may want to consider the WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag.
This bag is foldable and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your travels.
A great personal item on a flight, you’ll be glad to know that it fits the personal item size of Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
It measures 17.7 x 12.6 x 6.3 inches unfolded, so yeah, it’ll safely go under the seat in front of you, no problem.
And with a 25L capacity, this bag has plenty of room for all your travel essentials. Yet it weighs just 7.2 ounces, so it won’t add too much weight to your total baggage allowance.
Plus, it folds flat when not in use so you can easily pack it away in your luggage.
It’s made from a tear and water-resistant material.
Even better, it boasts of thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, making it one of the best underseat luggage you can rely on.
What we also love
With the WANDF Foldable Duffel, you have the option of carrying it either in your hands or slung over your shoulders, thanks to its detachable shoulder strap.
Its other convenient feature is the trolley sleeve for when you want to go hands-free at the airport.
And with over 24 color options to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice!
What’s not great
If you’re Looking for an extra bag to pack on a trip or just wanting a light and easy-to-store duffle for errands or quick overnight trips, the WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is a great choice!
However, it is not the most durable under-seat luggage.
It may not hold up well under heavy use because the fabric is thin, and the seams may not be strong enough to handle a lot of wear and tear, especially if you use it frequently.
Overall, I think this bag would be good for light travel or occasional use, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you need something that’s going to hold up well under a lot of wear and tear.
If you’re looking for something that will stand up to regular use, I would recommend investing in a higher-quality duffel bag like the Away duffel bag.
Briggs & Riley Baseline-Expandable Cabin Bag
Summary: The Baseline Cabin Bag is perfect for the traveler who wants a spacious and organized bag.
This Briggs & Riley Baseline Cabin Bag would be an excellent choice for someone who wants a reliable, expandable piece of luggage that will stand up to the rigors of travel.
The best part is that it meets carry-on requirements for most airlines!
Coming in at 16.5 x 11 x 4 inches (16.5 x 11 x 8 inches when expanded), this small bag is sized to fit under any seat, making it one of the best underseat luggage.
The bag features a three-section design- the main compartment, a front organizer, and a garment section that ensures everything is neatly sorted.
It also fits a 15-inch laptop comfortably.
And it expands an additional 2.5 inches if you need a little extra packing space.
Plus, the ballistic nylon fabric is tough and durable, meaning this bag will last for years to come.
It’s perfect for short trips or as an extra bag when you need to pack more than you can carry on your own.
And because it comes with a lifetime warranty, you can rest assured that this bag will last for years to come.
What we also love
This backpack is perfect for travel!
It has a slip-through back panel so you can easily slide it over the handle of your rolling luggage, and it also comes with a hideaway ID tag for safe storage.
Plus, the shoulder strap and top handle make it easy to carry around.
Not to mention, this bag is versatile and stylish enough for business or leisure travels.
What’s not great
The Briggs & Riley Baseline-Expandable Cabin Bag is great, but it is a bit on the expensive side.
It’s well worth the investment, though, because the bag is made with high-quality materials and construction that are sure to last. The expandable feature is also really handy, as it allows you to pack more items when needed.
Overall, this is a great choice for anyone looking for the best underseat luggage.
Nomad Lane Bento Bag V 3.0
Summary: The Nomad Lane Bento bag is praised for its organizational abilities and stylish design.
The Nomad Lane Bento Bag V 3.0 is the best underseat luggage for people who are constantly on the go.
Stylish and versatile, you can use this bag for everyday use, business, or leisure travel.
Better yet, it fits easily under a plane seat or in overhead storage.
And, it comes with a charging cord so you can keep your phone charged on the go, which is perfect for long days or trips when you might not have easy access to a power outlet.
The bag opens up like a suitcase, making it easy to access your clothes, a pair of shoes, toiletries, and other belongings.
It also comes with several organizational pockets, so you can keep everything neatly sorted.
Additionally, it has a padded laptop pocket at the center that can hold up to a 16″ laptop, as well as two top pockets that can hold toiletry items or other small belongings.
And the Bento Bag is also made from durable materials, so it can withstand wear and tear.
What we also love
The bag comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
Plus, the shoulder strap makes it comfortable to carry around all day long.
What’s not great
The main complaint I could find on the Nomad Lane Bento Bag is that there are a lot of pockets and zippers on the bag which can be a bit confusing and not very easy to use.
Overall, most people seem to love this bag!
It’s spacious, stylish, well-constructed, and perfect for carrying around all your essentials.
Buyer’s Guide: what to look out for in the best underseat luggage 2022
When looking for the best underseat luggage, here are some important factors you need to consider before making a final decision.
Size
There are a few reasons why size is important in the best underseat luggage.
First, many airlines have tighter restrictions on the size of bags that can be stored beneath the seat in front of you.
So, if you have a bag that is too big, you may not be able to store it on the plane.
Second, even if your bag fits under the seat, you don’t want it to be too big. A large bag will take up more space and make it more difficult to get in and out of your seat. And don’t forget leg space!
And finally, it’s always best to pack light when traveling.
You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy bag, especially if you have to walk or take public transportation to your final destination.
Overall, it’s best to buy an underseat bag that is the right size for your need and that is acceptable by the airline you’ll be flying with.
Also, there are important carry-on luggage rules and restrictions of the airlines and the airport you should know about to avoid any nasty surprises at the airport.
Storage & organization
The best underseat luggage should have two important features: it should be spacious enough to fit items for a night or two away, and it should have pockets to keep your smaller items nice and organized.
I suggest you look for an underseat luggage with compartments, because it makes packing so much easier.
You can fit more things in a compartmentalized bag than you can in a bag without compartments, plus it’s easy to find what you’re looking for when everything is neatly organized.
Additionally, having pockets means that you can keep your smaller items organized and easy to find. This is particularly important when traveling, as you’ll likely have a lot of different things with you and it can be frustrating if they’re all jumbled together.
Pockets are also great for storing things like passports, headphones, chargers, or sunglasses or items you can easily have access to on the go.
Wheeled vs non-wheeled underseat luggage
Are underseat luggage with wheels better than those without wheels?
It depends on what you’re looking for in an underseat luggage bag.
Wheeled bags are more convenient because you can wheel them through the airport rather than carrying them.
However, non-wheeled bags are a bit lighter, take up less space, and can be easier to fit into tight spots.
If you are someone who likes to pack light and move quickly through the airport, a wheeled bag might be a good option for you.
But if you want something that takes up minimal space, or if you tend to travel to a destination where there will be cobblestone streets or uneven surfaces, a non-wheeled bag might be better suited for your needs.
Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference.
Some people find wheeled bags more cumbersome, while others find them more convenient. Choose the option that works best for you!
Useful features
When looking for the best underseat luggage, it’s important to think about the features that would be most valuable and convenient for you.
For example, if you tend to go about with your laptop, tablet, phone, mouse, and other accessories, you would prefer an underseat luggage with a separated and well-padded tech compartment, instead of just a pocket inside the main compartment of the bag.
You might want a USB charging port, or one with external pockets for your passport, tickets, cards, etc., so they don’t get lost inside the bag.
Of course, the size of your shoes, laptop, documents, and other clothes should be able to fit comfortably inside the bag, so that you won’t have to squeeze or force anything.
By considering all of your needs and wants in a luggage bag, you can quickly narrow down your search and find the perfect option for your next trip.
List of major airlines’ requirements for underseat luggage dimensions
If you’re planning on bringing an underseat bag with you on a flight, it’s important to make sure that it meets the size requirements of the airline you’re flying with.
The rule is that your underseat luggage must fit under the seat of the specific airline you’re flying with.
But the size requirements for these items can vary from airline to airline.
To help make things easier, I’ve compiled a list of carry-on luggage size requirements for major airlines below.
Of course, always be sure to double-check with the airline before your flight to ensure that there haven’t been any changes to their policy.
Here is a list of some major airlines and their requirements for underseat luggage dimensions:
Airline: Size Requirements (L x W x H):
- American Airlines: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
- Frontier Airlines: 8 x 18 x 14 inches
- JetBlue:17 x 13 x 8 inches
- Southwest: 25 x 13.5 x 8 inches
- Spirit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
- United Airlines:17 x 10 x 9 inches
You can check out my review of carry-on luggage rules as well as the size requirements for both carry-on and personal items luggage for more details.
What is underseat luggage?
Underseat luggage is a small, lightweight bag that you can bring with you on board an airplane and that will fit under the seat in front of you.
It typically falls under the category of personal items or carry-on bags, but this depends on the airline that you fly with.
The great thing about the best underseat luggage is that you won’t have to struggle for a space in the overhead bin, which can often be scarce on busy flights.
This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage.
All in all, the best underseat luggage is great for shorter trips, as it doesn’t take up a lot of space and is easy to carry around.
What size bag fits under most airline seats?
What luggage fits under airplane seats?
The average size for a bag that can fit under most airline seats is 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches.
However, space on airplanes is notoriously tight these days, so it’s always a good idea to pack light and use the size that qualifies as a personal item with your airline before heading to the airport to make sure it will fit.
If you’re packing a lot of items, it may not fit under the seat in front of you, and such, you may need to check your bag at the gate instead.
Does an underseat bag count as a personal item?
Yes, an underseat bag counts as a personal item. Personal items are any bag that fits under the seat in front of you, be it a laptop bag, briefcase, or even a large purse.
So long as it can fit comfortably beneath the seat in front of you, it’s considered a personal item.
Now, some airlines have stricter rules when it comes to personal items.
For example, Southwest only allows one personal item per passenger, and it can’t be larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Other airlines are more lenient, so it’s always best to check with your specific carrier before packing your bags.
What bags count as a personal item?
Most airlines define a personal item as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag – something that can be easily carried on your person.
I’ve also seen people carry on backpacks, totes, duffels, or any small bag as a personal item.
Remember, for a bag to qualify as a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you easily, so be sure it’s small enough for this occasion. Usually, a personal item bag should not exceed 16 x 12 x 6 inches in dimension as this is the most common under-seat bag restriction size for most airlines.
At the end of the day, it just depends on the airline and its specific policies.
So if you’re wondering if your backpack will count as a personal item, be sure to check with your carrier ahead of time to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Do backpacks fit under airline seats?
Typically backpacks under 18x14x8 inches long or smaller will fit under the seat in front of you.
The space under an airplane seat can usually accommodate a backpack of that size.
If the backpack is too big, it will be considered a carry-on bag and must be stowed within the overhead bins above your seat.
Of course, the dimensions of the space under the seat may vary depending on the airline, so it’s always a good idea to check with your airline before packing your backpack.
Will a small suitcase fit under airplane seat?
Assuming you’re talking about a small suitcase like this Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage, the answer is yes, it will fit under most airplane seats.
Most airlines are happy to allow small suitcases as long as they can be stored safely beneath the seat in front of you.
Of course, it’s always best to check with your particular airline to be sure, since seat and luggage size can vary somewhat from carrier to carrier.
Final Thoughts
The best underseat luggage for air travel can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to avoid checked bag fees and don’t have a lot of space in the overhead bin.
We’ve shared some of our favorite options that are compact and lightweight, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
What do you think about these picks? Do you have a favorite that we didn’t include?
Let me know in the comments!
And for any other general questions on carry-on luggage, you are sure to find answers in my ultimate guide to Carry-on luggage post.
This article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These bags have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
7 thoughts on “Best Underseat Luggage 2023 | Compact & Lightweight Options for Airline Travel”
These are all perfectly designed to fit under the carriage of your seat, this is going to solve problems easier and quicker. The best thing is to get one and I know that we are going to use this all the time. We are sure glad that you did so much research on underseat luggage.
Also, we are going to share this with others and let them know that these underseat luggages are the best.
Cheers,
MnD
Thank you for your comment, MnD! I am glad you found this article helpful.
We love sharing with our readers about products that’ll make their travel easier and we’re happy to know that you’ll be sharing this great news with others.
Do come back again!
Cheers,
Femi.
Hi Femi,
Thanks again for this beautiful post. It helps a lot when people look for an expert’s advice. I am a backpack guy, so the Matein backpack seems like a perfect one for me. I can use it for my daily routine and traveling, killing two birds at one stone. I will also check the required size of under-seat luggage in case my backpack exceeds the limits.
PS. I cannot get my eyes off Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage, and I think I will consider this one if I need to buy one. 🙂
Matt
I don’t like to check my bags, as I’m always worried about them getting lost. I’m very short though, and trying to get a regular carry-on into the overhead bin can be a hassle.
I didn’t think there was anything that would be able to handle what I’m needing that would fit underneath the seat until I came across this article. And then I fell in love the Bento Bag. For my short weekend trips, this is perfect! All the extra pockets are a plus for me, as I can combine what I normally carry in my purse and what I carry in my suitcase into one bag. It’s a bit higher priced that what I would like, but it has so many 5-star ratings I’m sure it’s worth it. Not having to struggle with a carry-on plus my purse also makes it worth it.
So glad I found your article; it’s been very helpful.
It’s hard to find good luggage pieces that fit under the seat in an airplane and with current – in my opinion sometimes too rigid – restrictions. The Samsonite – the first one – looks great but it’s a shame that it has a small compartment for a laptop. If your laptop is a few inches too big it may not fit.
I think that the TravelPro MaxLite is the one that seems perfect for me, and its design is beautiful. The zipper might be an issue, but I think that may be different from model to model. I also like the color. Does it also come in different colors?
Thanks for your honest feedback, Christine! I’m glad you’re liking our selection of underseat luggage. It can be tough to find pieces that fit the bill, so hopefully we’re making things a little bit easier for you.
The TravelPro MaxLite is definitely a popular option and it’s great that you like the color too. And to answer your question, the Maxlite is available in a variety of colours for you to make a selection from.
Thanks again for letting us know what you think and feel free to reach out if there’s anything else we can help with.
Cheers,
Femi.
When I was just starting to travel, I used to pack a lot of unnecessary things that just made it stressful. Nowadays, I am savvier…so if I am traveling without my family, I will simply carry a simple backpack that will be big enough to fit all the necessary stuff. I’m looking for a new one, so that is why I’ve found this helpful post. The Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack seems like it’s the one I’ll most likely get. Thanks for all the additional storage ideas.