1. Figure out what carry-on suitcase size works for the airline you're going on, because of COURSE there's no standard measurement across them all. Luckily for us, Amazon has an easy guide to make shopping for your suitcase a lot easier — just select by airline! Navigate by the airline(s) you regularly fly, and Amazon will weed out the options that won't fit into the overhead bins.
Now you can really *maximize* your size based on the airlines you fly most often. 2. And pack your purse, and choose your "personal item" carefully — aka the biggest one possible, like a spacious travel-friendly backpack that'll fit under the seat in front of you.
This one checks all the boxes: super roomy, zips completely open (like a suitcase — so it's easy to find what you need), has plenty of pockets (including one for shoes and a separate wet bag!), and a strap that slides down over your luggage handle for easy transport. And reviewers say it meets even Spirit and JetBlue 's personal item rules and fits under airplane seats! I've traveled with this suitcase several times (including a few international trips), and it's really roomy and easy to keep organized, and it has comfy straps! Get it from Amazon for $33.99 + (available in four sizes and 27 colors).
Promising review: " I bought this backpack for work. It's the BEST backpack I've ever used. I needed one with several pockets and not too big or heavy.
I found that with this backpack, I can fill it and still have room! There's even a sh.