Suitcase solutions that save space on the plane and in storage
If you’re a frequent flyer, then you’ve probably already endured the dreaded last-minute gate check. Just when it seems like you’re going to be able to squeeze your very appropriately sized roller bag in the overhead compartment, a passenger in front of you stuffs what’s clearly a checkable bag into the final open space. That means your carryon is going to be subject to the perils of the checked luggage process. If it even makes it to your destination, you’ll have to wait at the carousel and sacrifice precious exploration time.
But here’s a piece of good news: you don’t have to be a slave to that overhead space. If you can cram your carryon bag under the seat in front of you, there’s zero chance of having to check it, even on a completely full flight. Even better, when you get back home, you won’t have to stress over where you’re going to fit a bulky suitcase in your already crowded apartment.
The best way to keep your carryon bag out of the checked baggage area is simply to buy a smaller bag and pack it more efficiently. Even if you’re going away for a couple of days, you should still be able to fit a comprehensive wardrobe into a small suitcase or bag if you follow some tried-and-true packing guidelines. First of all, you should always roll your clothing, never fold and stack individual pieces. Rolling allows you to cram far more tops into a suitcase than you would’ve ever thought possible otherwise. Plus, it results in fewer wrinkles if you do it right. You should also take full advantage of the space inside your shoes, stuffing socks and underwear inside so as not to waste a square inch. If you do use your shoes to house underwear, fold each pair carefully first in order to make it as compact as possible.
Even the most efficient packer will be at the mercy of airline employees if her roller bag doesn’t fit in the overhead bins. So opt for a bag that’s easy to squish, like a collapsible suitcase. They’re packed with compartments and plenty of internal space, but any area you don’t use can be smushed into nothingness in order to save space. In fact, when it’s empty, the suitcase shrinks down to half of its full size-a pretty handy trick for when you get back home and go to stow the suitcase in a hallway closet.
Even this collapsible bag probably won’t fit under the seat in front of you on the plane, though, so if that’s your main concern, opt for a big backpack instead. Choose one with a laptop pocket if you intend to travel with your computer or tablet, and opt for something on the larger side, regardless. Even if you get a big backpack and fill it to the brim with clothes, it should be soft enough to squish under the seat in front of you, thus eliminating the need to elbow your way into the boarding line ahead of people with roller bags.
20 Genius Space-Saving Hacks for Your Suitcase [Cosmopolitan]
10 Best Carry-On Bags for Every Traveler [Airfare Watchdog]
Luggage Reviews [Good Housekeeping]
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