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best underseat luggage 2024
Rimowa/Away

10 Best Under-Seat Luggage Pieces, Editor Tested and Reviewed

The ultimate travel hack.

By

Let's peel back the curtain on the secret world of under-seat luggage—because space is at a premium and the struggle to find something practical and efficient is real. Great options are hard to come by, and everyone else on the plane is going to be wheeling around suitcases that seem to have a mind of their own. If you want to know what luggage to invest in (spoiler, it's Rimowa), luggage sets to buy, or affordable suitcases to snag, go ahead and shop those. But you're here to find the holy grail of travel gear—the perfect under-seat luggage—and the travel experts at Esquire can help with that.

Now, before you embark on this quest, there's a golden rule to keep in mind: Size is nonnegotiable here, obviously. You can occasionally stuff a backpack or tote bag partially under the seat and get away with it, but there are finite dimensions you need to shop within. According to airline policy, any personal items cozying up under those seats must play by the rules, measuring no more than 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. This challenge has sparked a sort of arms race among luggage manufacturers. They all want to make the ideal piece of gear, one that's compact yet somehow swallows half your closet.

  • Everywhere Bag

    Best for Quick Trips

    Away Everywhere Bag

    $202 at Away
    Read more
  • Carry All Weekender

    Best Weekender Bag

    July Carry All Weekender

    Read more
  • Crew Classic UnderSeat Carry-On

    Airline Crew Approved Bag

    Travelpro Crew Classic UnderSeat Carry-On

    Read more
  • Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage

    The Best Mini Statement Bag

    CALPAK Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage

    Read more
  • Herringbone Deluxe Underseater

    Best Classic Design

    Hartmann Herringbone Deluxe Underseater

    Read more

As a travel writer who has ventured to over 50 countries and every continent, my journey has been a testament to the tried and tested. I've navigated the labyrinth of under-seat luggage options firsthand, pushing each contender to its limits across countless terminals, airstrips, and situations. What follows isn't just research; it's the distillation of years on the move—a quest for durability, functionality, and that elusive perfect fit beneath the seat in front of you. We've sifted through the possibilities, identifying the champions of under-seat travel gear. Here they are.

Best for Quick Trips

Away Everywhere Bag

Everywhere Bag
Best for Quick Trips

Away Everywhere Bag

$202 at Away
Pros
  • Weatherproof material
  • Spacious yet elegant design
Cons
  • Shoulder strap can show some wear and tear

The Everywhere Bag is perfect for quick trips and everyday hustle, thanks to its smart design. Zip it open and you've got easy access to all your stuff. It effortlessly attaches to Away suitcases, especially useful when you're sprinting through an airport. Carry it with a comfy, detachable shoulder strap or grab the top handles. There's even a special spot for your 15-inch laptop and a detachable key clip for convenience. Whether you're flying off for a weekend or running off to the gym, this bag is ready to make your life a whole lot smoother.

MaterialNylon, leather
Capacity20L
Dimensions16.3" x 10.2" x 7.3"
Weight2.75lb with shoulder strap | 2.25lb without
Best Weekender Bag

July Carry All Weekender

Carry All Weekender
Best Weekender Bag

July Carry All Weekender

Pros
  • Stylish and modern aesthetic
  • Minimal design yet incredibly spacious
Cons
  • No compression for when you carry less
  • Expensive

Ready for a weekend getaway? This weekender bag is a game changer, sliding right under your airplane seat. Spacious yet sleek, it packs your essentials, including a 16-inch laptop, with style. Its QuickPass pocket and organized compartments keep everything within reach. Whether you're using the soft leather handles or the adjustable shoulder strap, comfort's guaranteed.

Plus, it's water-resistant and hooks easily onto your luggage. With premium finishes like gunmetal zips and leather trim, it's not just practical; it's a statement.

MaterialWaterproof nylon twill exterior, water-resistant nylon lining
Capacity28L
Dimensions18" x 8.5" x 10.5"
Weight2.2lbs
Airline Crew Approved Bag

Travelpro Crew Classic UnderSeat Carry-On

Crew Classic UnderSeat Carry-On
Airline Crew Approved Bag

Travelpro Crew Classic UnderSeat Carry-On

Now 15% Off
Pros
  • Durable
  • Plenty of pockets for organization
  • Sustainably made
Cons
  • Some might not love the flight crew aesthetic

If you want to look like an off-duty pilot, the Travelpro Crew Classic Rolling UnderSeat Carry-On is a favorite among top airline crews, blending durability and smart packing. Perfectly sized to fit under most airline seats, it's made from tough fabric that resists stains and abrasions, with an eco-friendly lining from recycled plastic bottles.

It's all about smart storage here. There's a padded sleeve for laptops and tablets, side pockets for essentials, and a removable, water-resistant toiletry organizer. Glide it smoothly through terminals on high-performance wheels and easily stack it on other luggage with its rear strap. Plus, with a warranty that covers airline damage, this carry-on promises to be as resilient as it is practical.

MaterialNylon, recycled poly lining
Capacity24.5L
Dimensions17" x 14" x 8.75"
Weight5.8lbs
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The Best Mini Statement Bag

CALPAK Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage

Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage
The Best Mini Statement Bag

CALPAK Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage

Pros
  • Packs a whole lot in little space
  • Lovely telescopic handle
Cons
  • Faux-crocodile design isn’t for everyone

Roll smoothly through the airport with this mini trunk... sorry, mini trnk-style carry-on. The faux-crocodile design on a durable hard shell makes it a statement piece, and the 360-degree spinner wheels make it practical.

Inside, there's no mess, just organized bliss with a buckled strap and pockets. The cushioned handle means grabbing and going has never felt better. Choose your classic color and make this compact carry-on your go-to for turning heads on every trip.

MaterialPolycarbonate exterior, polyester interior
Capacity34.1L
Dimensions16.5” x 14” x 9”
Weight6.3lbs
Best Classic Design

Hartmann Herringbone Deluxe Underseater

Herringbone Deluxe Underseater
Best Classic Design

Hartmann Herringbone Deluxe Underseater

Pros
  • Classy design
  • Hidden USB port is useful
Cons
  • Expensive

Glide through the airport with a suitcase that effortlessly fits under your seat while keeping your style on point. This classic piece features Hartmann's signature herringbone fabric, ensuring you look refined every step of the way. Inside, find a monogrammed lining with Ducord accents, a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop, and neatly arranged pockets for seamless organization.

Practicality shines with a USB port for charging on the go (battery not included), a SmartSleeve for easy attachment to larger luggage, and a TSA padlock for security. The lightweight aluminum pull handle and dual spinner wheels offer smooth handling. Designed to fit under most airplane seats, this suitcase blends the legacy of travel with today's essentials. The design is timeless, and the suitcase itself is a functional little travel companion.

MaterialPolyester
Capacity17L
Dimensions8.5" x 14.5" x 8.5"
Weight6.9lbs
Best High-Tech Bag

Tumi Compact Carry-On

Compact Carry-On
Best High-Tech Bag

Tumi Compact Carry-On

Pros
  • Lockable compartments for tech
  • Internal USB port
Cons
  • Very pricey

This high-tech, under-seat carry-on is your ultimate travel companion for short trips. It features a secure double-zip back compartment and a special padded slot for up to a 14-inch laptop. Stay powered up with the built-in USB port and a neatly organized front pocket for your cable. It's easy to move around with a telescoping handle, four recessed wheels, and a comfortable leather-wrapped handle for lifting.

But it's not just about moving. It's about keeping everything in place while you do. Inside, find media pockets, a zip pocket for your power bank, and spaces for cards and pens, all wrapped up in lightweight nylon. The front U-zip gives you easy access to the main compartment, ensuring that this carry-on is both high-tech and highly functional, fitting perfectly under your seat.

MaterialNylon
Capacity21L
Dimensions16" x 14" x 8"
Weight6.6lbs
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Best Luxury Carry-On

Rimowa Compact

Compact
Best Luxury Carry-On

Rimowa Compact

Pros
  • Sleek and unique design
  • Interior is customizable
  • Compression straps help keep items organized and pressed
Cons
  • Expensive

The Rimowa Original Compact redefines luxury travel with its versatile design, perfect for daily commutes or quick one- to two-day trips. This silver marvel adapts effortlessly to your needs. Use it as a sleek wheeled briefcase or remove the interior accordion divider to convert it into a compact carry-on that fits neatly in any train or airplane luggage space. Inside, the bag is a sanctuary for your essentials, featuring a zipped compartment, multiple pockets for impeccable organization, and a generous padded section that securely accommodates laptops up to 16 inches.

MaterialAluminum
Capacity29L
Dimensions16" x 16.34" x 9.06"
Weight9.48lbs
Most Compact Bag

Lipault Foldable Plume Mini Cabin

Foldable Plume Mini Cabin
Most Compact Bag

Lipault Foldable Plume Mini Cabin

Pros
  • Available in five distinct and stylish colors
  • Easily can be stored anywhere
Cons
  • Some customers wish it came with a strap

The Foldable Plume luggage series is like having a travel magic trick up your sleeve. Imagine a suitcase that not only fits all your stuff but also folds down into a whisper-thin profile when you're done. Press two buttons near the wheels and voilà, it collapses, ready to slide into the slimmest of spaces—under the bed, in the closet, or anywhere else you need to stash it away.

Despite its folding superpower, this bag doesn't skimp on space or durability. It's surprisingly roomy and lightweight, perfect for those who dread lugging around heavy suitcases. Plus, it comes with a lining and PVC cover for when it's time to tuck it away, keeping it dust-free and ready for the next adventure.

MaterialNylon
Capacity38.2"
Dimensions7.9" x 12.6" x 17.7"
Weight4.6lbs
Best Budget Bag

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner

Underseat Carry-On Spinner
Best Budget Bag

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner

Now 27% Off
Pros
  • Good price
  • USB port
  • Great maneuverability
Cons
  • Handle is poorly made

This budget-friendly carry-on ticks all the boxes for savvy travelers. Designed to fit snugly under most airplane seats, it's a dream for keeping your essentials close without digging through overhead bins mid-flight. But check your airline's size restrictions just in case, as dimensions can vary.

With four multidirectional spinner wheels, this bag offers 360-degree rolling, making navigating through crowded airports a breeze. Plus, the USB port is a lifesaver for charging your devices on the move—just remember to pack your own battery.

The ergonomic push-button locking handle feels like it was made just for your hand, easing the strain of travel. For those who love to be organized, the quick-stash exterior pockets are perfect for tucking away smaller items. Inside, the main compartment doesn't disappoint, featuring a padded laptop pouch ready to protect laptops up to 13.3 inches.

MaterialDurable polyester fabric
Capacity2.89L
Dimensions9" x 13.5" x 16.5"
Weight5.5lbs
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Best Under-Seat Duffel Bag

Briggs & Riley Baseline Underseat Duffle Bag

Baseline Underseat Duffle Bag
Best Under-Seat Duffel Bag

Briggs & Riley Baseline Underseat Duffle Bag

Pros
  • Removable, adjustable cross-body strap makes it versatile
  • Spacious interior
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Only available in two colors

This classic duffel is the perfect under-seat travel companion, combining timeless style with practical features, such as durable, self-repairing YKK zippers and a ballistic nylon exterior that withstands wear and resists moisture and dirt. Its four double swivel wheels guarantee ease of movement, while the slip-through back strap allows for effortless coupling with rolling luggage. Quick access to essentials is made easy with the SpeedThru pocket, which is ideal for security checkpoints.

The interior is thoughtfully designed with a spacious main compartment, including a zip mesh pocket, and two large pockets for efficient organization. For added security, there’s a HideAway ID tag. Carrying options include a top handle and a removable, adjustable cross-body strap, making it a versatile choice for any traveler looking for convenience and style in one.

MaterialBallistic nylon
Capacity47L
Dimensions10.5" x 16.5" x 11.5"
Weight2.8lbs

Tips for Buying Under-Seat Luggage

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Check the Size: When shopping for under-seat luggage, the measurements are crucial. Always take a moment to review the dimensions provided in the product description. While some bags are advertised as being airline-approved, our experience suggests it's best to double-check. Since airlines differ in their under-seat space allowances, confirming with them directly is a smart strategy.

Consider Wheeled Bags vs. Tote Bags: For regular travelers, a wheeled under-seat bag, whether it has two or four wheels, can greatly ease your journey through bustling airports. Tote bags, devoid of wheels, are lighter and thus more suited for short trips by car or train, where space restrictions are less of an issue. Our tests revealed that both types, particularly bags with rear straps for easy attachment to larger luggage, significantly streamline the chore of carrying your under-seat item through the terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What size luggage can fit under your seat?

Every airline has its own idea of under-seat space, but the max is usually 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. However, we found a sweet spot for size: 16 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. That's our go-to for testing. Most under-seat bags hover around these dimensions, but how chunky your bag ends up really depends on how much you stuff into it.

How much can an under-seat suitcase fit?

In our evaluations, we checked how much each bag could carry by packing it with essentials: two days' worth of outfits, a laptop, and a toiletry kit. Typically, an under-seat suitcase is ideal for light packing, covering just about a weekend's needs. However, the actual capacity might vary based on what kind of clothing and gadgets you decide to bring.

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Why Trust Esquire?

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Because no one else has the taste that we do. No one travels like we do. Personally, I have been to more than 50 countries and touched down on all seven continents. I've tested a million suitcases, and the rest of the Esquire editors have tested a million more. We test products. We award the most revolutionary home stuff. And we only recommend the things we would buy with our own money.

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