Skip to content

3 Best Underseat Luggage in 2024

You might not know that most airlines have specific requirements for underseat luggage, and getting it wrong can mean checking your bag at the gate. Luckily, you’re about to discover the top three underseat luggage options that will keep you flying high. From organization masters to security wizards, these bags have got you covered. But which one will fit your travel style best? With features like RFID-blocking pockets and weather-resistant fabric, the competition is fierce. You’re just one step away from finding the perfect companion for your next adventure – so, what are you waiting for?

Briggs & Riley ZDX Luggage, Black, One Size

Briggs & Riley ZDX Luggage, Black, One Size  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re a frequent flyer who prioritizes laptop protection and organization, the Briggs & Riley ZDX Luggage is an excellent underseat option for you, thanks to its large zip-around back section with a padded laptop pocket and separate tablet pocket.

You’ll appreciate the durable weather-resistant fabric made of 800D ballistic nylon outer with contrasting PVC coated nylon, ensuring your belongings stay safe and dry.

The bag also features a large cargo pocket on top for easy storage of must-have items, as well as RFID blocking pockets to protect your personal data.

With its travel-friendly features, such as a deep SpeedThru pocket and orange lining, you’ll breeze through security checkpoints with ease.

Best For: Frequent flyers who prioritize laptop protection and organization.

Pros:

  • Comfortable and well-organized design
  • Good laptop protection with padded laptop pocket and separate tablet pocket
  • Durable weather-resistant fabric and travel-friendly features for easy security checks

Cons:

  • Some users find the bag too big
  • Lacks pen/pencil and notepad storage
  • Some users report poor design and cheaply made materials

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack  Get it now on Amazon.com

Optimizing space with its clever compartments, the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack is an ideal underseat luggage choice for you if you’re a frequent traveler seeking a reliable and efficient bag for one or two night trips.

You’ll appreciate its durable design and ability to hold a lot of gear, making it perfect for work trips or short camping excursions.

The bag’s organization is on point, with zippered compartments and a laptop pocket, allowing you to pack efficiently.

However, be aware that the zipper pathway can be smooth when packed, and the material quality might be a concern.

Additionally, the color may not match expectations, so double-check before purchasing.

Overall, the 28L is a great choice for short trips, but if you need more space, consider the 35L option.

Best For: Frequent travelers seeking a reliable and efficient bag for one or two night trips, including work trips or short camping excursions.

Pros:

  • The bag’s organization and build quality are good, with zippered compartments and a laptop pocket making it easy to pack efficiently.
  • It is durable and can hold a lot of gear, making it perfect for overnight, weekend, and 3-4 day camp trips.
  • The delivery time exceeded expectations, and the item was as shown on Amazon.

Cons:

  • The zipper pathway isn’t smooth when the bag is packed due to a non-elastic band in the inside pocket layout.
  • The material used is of poor quality, and damages can occur with standard use.
  • The color of the bag may not match the expected color, such as Amber being more of a yellow.

Solo New York 16-Inch Laptop Rolling Case

Solo New York 16-Inch Laptop Rolling Case  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its removable padded sleeve protecting laptops up to 16 inches, this Solo New York 16-Inch Laptop Rolling Case is an ideal choice for frequent travelers who need to transport their devices safely and efficiently.

You’ll appreciate the airport-friendly sleeve design, which allows for faster security checks. The overnighter section, quick access pocket, front zip-down organizer section, and fan file pocket provide ample space for your essentials.

The hidden push-button telescoping handle system makes it easy to maneuver. Measuring 16.25 x 14 x 7 inches and weighing 2.86 pounds, this case is compact yet feature-rich.

With a 4.4-star rating based on 183 reviews, you can trust that this case will meet your needs.

Best For: Frequent travelers, business professionals, and individuals who need a reliable and organized laptop case for daily use.

Pros:

  • Airport-friendly sleeve design for faster security checks
  • Multiple compartments and dividers for organization and easy access to essentials
  • Compact and lightweight design with a hidden push-button telescoping handle system for easy maneuverability

Cons:

  • Some customers have reported issues with the zipper and handle
  • One customer received a used product with dirty wheels
  • Limited reports of durability concerns, but overall reviews indicate a reliable product

Factors to Consider When Choosing Underseat Luggage

When selecting the perfect underseat luggage, you’ll want to think about a few key factors to guarantee you find the right fit for your needs.

You’ll need to ponder the size of the bag, the materials it’s made of, and how well it can protect your laptop.

Bag Size Matters

Your underseat luggage’s size is crucial to guaranteeing it fits snugly under the seat in front of you, and that’s why it’s imperative to think about a few key factors before making a purchase.

The ideal size typically ranges from 16 to 20 inches tall, 14 to 16 inches wide, and 7 to 10 inches deep, allowing it to fit under most airline seats.

However, you should also consider the capacity you need, as smaller bags hold around 20-24 liters, while larger ones can hold up to 40 liters.

To confirm the perfect fit, measure the space under the seat of your specific aircraft.

Soft-sided bags are a great option since they can be compressed to fit into smaller spaces, while hard-sided bags maintain their shape and mightn’t fit as easily.

Think about the essentials you need to pack and prioritize them to guarantee they fit in your chosen bag size.

Material and Durability

When selecting the material of your underseat luggage, prioritize durability and protection as it directly impacts the bag’s ability to withstand the rigors of travel.

Opt for weather-resistant fabrics like 800D ballistic nylon, which provides excellent protection against the elements. High-quality materials, such as PVC coated nylon, can withstand heavy use and last longer.

Additionally, think about the bag’s lining, which can add an extra layer of security. For instance, an orange lining can alert you if a pocket is open.

When evaluating the material, don’t forget to weigh the importance of the bag’s weight, which typically ranges from 2-3 pounds. A lighter bag can make a big difference regarding portability and ease of use.

While durability is vital, it’s also essential to balance it with weight factors. By choosing the right material, you can safeguard your underseat luggage against the demands of travel while still being easy to maneuver.

Laptop Protection Needs

Two essential considerations for laptop protection are a large zip-around back section with a padded laptop pocket and a separate padded tablet pocket, both of which can provide a safeguard against damage during travel.

You’ll want to verify that the luggage can fit your laptop, so look for one that can accommodate devices up to 17.3 inches. Additionally, a separate padded tablet pocket will give you extra peace of mind when carrying your tablet.

When choosing underseat luggage, you should also consider the material used. A durable weather-resistant fabric, such as 800D ballistic nylon, can help protect your laptop from external damage.

In addition, RFID blocking pockets can protect your personal data from being accessed or stolen during travel. Another feature to look for is deep SpeedThru pockets that allow for quick storage of your laptop at security checkpoints, making the travel process more efficient.

Organization and Compartments

When selecting underseat luggage, consider a design with multiple compartments and dividers to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible. This will allow you to find what you need quickly and efficiently, making your travel experience less stressful.

Look for a laptop pocket with padding that can fit devices up to 16 or 17.3 inches, and a separate tablet pocket for added convenience. A front organizer section with zip-down pockets can provide quick access to frequently needed items like paperwork or travel documents.

For extra security, opt for RFID-blocking pockets that block radio frequencies that can access sensitive information. Additionally, a deep SpeedThru pocket can be a lifesaver at security checkpoints, allowing you to quickly store items and speed through the process.

Weight and Portability

As you prioritize organization and accessibility in your underseat luggage, don’t overlook the importance of weight and portability in making your travel experience even more seamless.

A lightweight underseat luggage can make a significant difference in reducing fatigue during travel, as every extra pound can feel like five when carrying a bag through the airport. Look for bags that weigh between 2-4 pounds, which are generally considered portable and easy to maneuver.

The material used also plays a role in the bag’s weight, with durable yet lightweight options like 800D ballistic nylon being a great choice.

However, you must find a balance between portability and features. Some underseat luggage features, such as removable sleeves or laptop pockets, can add weight but also increase the bag’s functionality and organization.

When considering an underseat luggage’s weight, think about your travel requirements and what you need from your bag. By finding a bag that meets your needs without weighing you down, you’ll be able to navigate the airport with ease and confidence.

Traveler’s Specific Needs

Considering your specific travel requirements is essential to choosing the right underseat luggage that meets your unique needs and preferences.

If you’re a laptop user, you’ll want luggage with padded laptop pockets, like the Briggs & Riley ZDX Luggage that fits up to 17.3-inch laptops.

If organization is key, look for bags with multiple compartments and dividers, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack, which has zippered compartments and a laptop pocket.

As a frequent traveler, you’ll benefit from luggage with airport-friendly features, like the Solo New York 16-Inch Laptop Rolling Case, which has a removable sleeve for faster security checks.

If you need to carry work gear and clothes, choose luggage with sufficient capacity, like the Briggs & Riley ZDX Luggage, which has a total capacity of 24 liters.

Overnight travelers require luggage with dedicated overnighter sections, such as the Solo New York 16-Inch Laptop Rolling Case, which has an overnighter section and a quick access pocket.

Price and Value Ratio

You’ll get the most bang for your buck by evaluating the price and value ratio of underseat luggage based on your unique travel habits and requirements.

This means considering the quality of materials, durability, and features in relation to the cost. Don’t assume that a higher-priced item always guarantees better value. Instead, think about how often you travel and what type of travel you do.

If you’re an infrequent traveler, a budget-friendly option with limited features might be the best value for you. On the other hand, if you’re a frequent traveler, a more expensive option with advanced features might be justified.

Compare prices across different brands and models to identify the best value, and read customer reviews and ratings to get insight into the product’s performance and durability.

Ultimately, balance the price and value ratio with your personal priorities, such as comfort, convenience, and style, to guarantee you choose the right underseat luggage for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Underseat Luggage Fit Under All Airplane Seats?

You’re wondering if underseat luggage can fit under all airplane seats? Unfortunately, it’s unlikely, since seat sizes vary across airlines and planes, and some seats have limited clearance, making it hard to find a one-size-fits-all solution.

Are Underseat Luggage Bags Suitable for International Travel?

As you soar across continents, your trusty underseat companion is like a loyal shadow, always by your side. Yes, underseat luggage bags are suitable for international travel, perfect for short trips or as a supplement to checked bags.

Can I Use Underseat Luggage for Overnight Trips?

You’re wondering if underseat luggage is suitable for overnight trips. The answer is yes, you can use it, but consider packing light and choosing a bag with ample storage for essentials like a change of clothes and toiletries.

Are Underseat Luggage Bags Typically Durable and Long-Lasting?

You’re wondering if underseat luggage bags are built to last? Let’s just say they’re tougher than you think! Most are made with rugged materials and reinforced stitching, so you can bet they’ll withstand the rigors of frequent travel.

Do Underseat Luggage Bags Usually Have Dedicated Laptop Sleeves?

You’ll find that most underseat luggage bags usually have dedicated laptop sleeves, providing a safe and organized space for your device. These sleeves are often padded and designed to fit laptops of various sizes.

Conclusion

You’ve found the perfect underseat luggage that fits your style and needs – now it’s time to take off!

Like a puzzle piece, the right luggage slides into place, making your travels seamless and stress-free.

With these top picks, you’ll be gliding through security checks and maneuvering through tight spaces with ease.