11 Underseat Luggage Options That'll Revolutionize Your Travel Game

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These 11 Underseat Luggage Picks Are Game-ChangingBeis


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Listen, whether you're jet-setting with the grace of a celebrity or simply rolling out of bed and heading straight to the airport, I'm here for it all. (Your style, your choice!) But admist all that fashion freedom, there's one thing I won't compromise on: your under-seat bag game. Since you've landed here, I sense you're on the hunt for an underseat bag that's not just practical, but downright convenient. I'm talking about a bag that effortlessly stores and grants you access to all your essentials, while still managing to look chic as ever, even after countless trips.

In the rare case I haven't tempted you to start scrolling already, prepare to drool over

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Whether you like to jet-set in style or are cool with rolling out of bed and heading straight to the airport, I'm here for it all. Do you! But one thing I won't compromise on? Your underseat luggage game. Everyone needs a good mini suitcase, travel backpack, tote bag, or weekender to use as an airline-approved personal item, especially for quick trips. I mean, it's just so convenient: you can slide it right under the seat in front of you—no "OMG, there's no more overhead space," panicking required.

Indeed, the perfect piece of underseat luggage will keep all your must-haves close and look good at the same damn time, no matter how many miles it's clocked. And there are so many great options out there—like, an overwhelming amount, tbh. But that's why I'm here. I spent literal hours sifting through them all to bring ya the cream of the crop. These aren't your roommate's hand-me-downs: they're sleek, they're chic, and they're sure to turn heads whether you're strutting through the airport, the train station, or anywhere else you might be short on space.

Keep scrolling for 11 of the best underseat luggage picks for every type of traveler—whether you're a sucker for organization, prefer a backpack, or can't resist a soft-shell bag with a pretty print. Trust me, you're gonna want to read on for the complete list.

Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

This cute lil bag is perfect for those who are highly skilled at packing light...or those who are in the exact opposite boat and need a lil extra room alongside their checked bag (✋). I'm absolutely obsessed with how practical this design is. The 360-degree spinning wheels are a dream when you're racing to catch a connecting flight, and the secure laptop compartment keeps your devices safe and sound. The main compartment is also really thoughtfully laid out—it's basically a fun-sized version of a full-sized suitcase!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.calpaktravel.com%2Fproducts%2Fhue-mini-carry-on-luggage%2Fmauve&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg60256255%2Fbest-underseat-luggage%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage</p><p>calpaktravel.com</p><p>$165.00</p>

Travel Backpack

I've spotted this travel backpack at the airport countless times, so I took it as a sign to add it to my cart, too. It's seriously genius—pretty much a carry-on in backpack form—and ideal if you'd rather sling a bag on your back than wheel it around. I love it for weekend getaways because it opens up just like a suitcase, complete with security straps and plenty of organizing pockets. It's even got a spot to hook up a USB cord, so you can charge your goodies while you're on the move.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZTXQ6T6?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Travel Backpack</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$32.29</p>

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Travel Backpack

amazon.com

$32.29

Underseat Carry-On Spinner

Samsonite is unquestionably a luggage leader, and this cute 'n' compact carry-on is the brand's underseat It Girl. If you're all about pockets on pockets, meet 👏 your 👏 match 👏. With a padded laptop section and compartments galore for stashing and grabbing essentials fast and easily, it's bound to leave all you Type A travelers drooling.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H8SWKPC?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Underseat Carry-On Spinner </p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$95.74</p>

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Underseat Carry-On Spinner

amazon.com

$95.74

Softside Underseat Rolling Work Bag

I don't know about you, but Vera Bradley bags dominated the fashion scene of my youth. Consequently, I thought I had my fill of paisley print for a lifetime, but boy, was I wrong, because I am lusting after this softside roller. Their new styles are v modern, with travel treats like built-in USB ports, TSA-approved locks, and interior compression straps. What I'm loving about this particular bag is the trolley sleeve (for stacking it on top of a roller bag), padded laptop compartment, and of course, pretty floral print!

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BM54S5FM?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Softside Underseat Rolling Work Bag</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$156.00</p>

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Softside Underseat Rolling Work Bag

amazon.com

$156.00

Large Le Pliage Tote

Another brand I'm falling in love with all over again? Longchamp. I wore my old Le Pliage Tote every day in the 2010s, and now I'm itching to snag a fresh new one. What's stuck with me is how incredibly durable it was (I, unfortunately, threw uncapped pens into mine, which led to its demise), as well as the fact that it goes with damn near every outfit. The design is as simple as can be—no fancy pockets or compartments, just one big space to load up with all your essentials. And when you're not using it, you can fold it up into a teeny-tiny rectangle for easy storage. So chic! So practical!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F3241956&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg60256255%2Fbest-underseat-luggage%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Large Le Pliage Tote </p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$155.00</p>

The Everywhere Bag

Lately, I've been loving eye-catching designs, but don't get me wrong, my love for minimalism runs deep. And this Away bag? Yeah, it nails the neutral aesthetic. The interior layout is brilliant, boasting zippered and slip pockets, a padded laptop slot, and even a detachable key clip so you'll never have to frantically scramble around for your house keys ever again. I adore traveling with it, but pro tip: it also makes the perfect gym bag, thanks to its interior water bottle holder and room for sneakers.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.awaytravel.com%2Ftravel-bags%2Feverywhere-bag&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg60256255%2Fbest-underseat-luggage%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Everywhere Bag</p><p>awaytravel.com</p><p>$195.00</p>

Maxlite 5 Lightweight Underseat Carry-On

My biggest gripe with non-roller bags is that some of them make me feel like I'm lugging around a sack of bricks (fun!), leaving me sweaty and miserable at the airport. But this one is probably the lightest I've ever tried, and I'm not alone in thinking that. Tons of Amazon shoppers rave about its feather-light yet ultra-durable design. And the open-concept interior might just surprise you with how much it can fit in it for a weekend getaway (trust me!).

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BKKMZWN?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p> Maxlite 5 Lightweight Underseat Carry-On</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$84.99</p>

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Maxlite 5 Lightweight Underseat Carry-On

amazon.com

$84.99

15-Inch Carry-On Suitcase

I know you're probably thinking I'm a bit too obsessed with underseat bags by now, but hear me out—this one's different from the other rolling options on this list. If you're all about stuffing your suitcase with beauty minis, then this is the one for you. The U-shaped zipper opens up into a toiletry bag with lots of little sections, which is major for organizing. (Say byeee to digging through a chaotic mess of products.) There's also a spacious main compartment, and a side pocket for your water bottle, plane tickets, and any other items you might need fast access to.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0761Y7F8K?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>15-Inch Carry-On Suitcase</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$109.99</p>

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15-Inch Carry-On Suitcase

amazon.com

$109.99

V4 Bento Bag

If you're in the mood to treat yourself, you've gotta check out this seriously chic bag. Yes, it's a little spendy, but it's impossible not to fall head over heels for it. Why? Well, it opens down the middle like a suitcase, but then zips up to the size of a personal item. It comes with all the bells and whistles of a suitcase, too, like toiletry and tech pouches (both lifesavers at security), a stretchy key leash, an outer water bottle holder, and even an adjustable (and removable!) shoulder strap. Perhaps the coolest feature, though? The trolley sleeve on the back, which can also zip into a pocket when not in use.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnomadlane.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-bento-bag%3Fvariant%3D48289627275569%26currency%3DUSD%26tw_source%3Dgoogle%26tw_campaign%3D20260924073%26gad_source%3D1%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwkuqvBhAQEiwA65XxQB7D6ARSkh0I64iEZh_RlxmFrUXcWMNLdyugJfPCw9t2zCRpHylCSBoCE68QAvD_BwE&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg60256255%2Fbest-underseat-luggage%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>V4 Bento Bag</p><p>nomadlane.com</p><p>$298.00</p>

The Mini Weekender

Shay Mitchell is the real MVP for bringing Béis into the world. This weekender bag went viral on TikTok for all the right reasons, especially the separate bottom compartment designed specifically for your shoes. I can attest that this feature is a huge game-changer, especially if you happen to step in something less than pleasant and don't want your dirty shoes mixing with your clean clothes. Oh, and if that alone doesn't sell you, just look at the adorable colorways this bag is available in. They truly couldn't be chicer.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbeistravel.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-mini-weekender-in-beige&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Flifestyle%2Fg60256255%2Fbest-underseat-luggage%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Mini Weekender</p><p>beistravel.com</p><p>$98.00</p>

Chatelet 2.0 Softside Luggage Under-Seater

This underseater looks like a vintage gem your grandparents might dig out from their closet. But don't let the old-school vibe fool you, it's anything but outdated. The fabric is made with recycled water bottles, and the bag features vegan leather trim, so it's environmentally conscious, just like you! Plus, the rounded square shape easily slides under the seat in front of you, and there's a sneaky hidden pocket in the front where you can stash all your plane snacks (which is the most important thing to note, obviously).

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09R2LYTRN?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10049.g.60256255%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Chatelet 2.0 Softside Luggage Under-Seater</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$289.99</p>

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Chatelet 2.0 Softside Luggage Under-Seater

amazon.com

$289.99

How big is underseat luggage?

Great question! Before you purchase any ol' underseat bag to use as a personal item, it's absolutely imperative you check out the exact dimension restrictions for your flight. (Annoying, I know.) The good news is the restrictions aren't wildly different between airlines, for the most part. If you're like me and aren't tied down to one specific airline (ballin' on a budget over here), I highly recommend grabbing a bag with dimensions that are sure to fit every everyone's requirements.

For some context: American Airlines, Allegiant Airlines, and Spirit require a personal item that's 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller, whereas United Airlines is even tighter, at 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Delta's a bit more chill, they just want it to slide under the seat in front of you, which is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. If all these numbers seem overwhelming, pretty please don't stress too much about the specifics. This shopping guide has plenty of options.

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Things to consider when buying underseat luggage:

Dimensions are obviously the first order of business, or else it's all a flop! But here are some other very important things to consider when buying underseat luggage:

Consider the storage capacity.

Since every bag is built differently, each has a unique storage capacity. Often measured in liters (L), this number will give you an idea of how much stuff you can cram in there. Our list includes options ranging from a cozy five liters to a spacious 35 liters, so there's something for every type of packer. Since most airlines don't have weight restrictions for personal items, you can go HAM filling your bag to the brim to save some $$ if you can avoid checked bag fees.

Think about how you like to organize your stuff.

We all have our own approach to packing. Some prefer tossing everything into one main compartment, while others like to neatly divide their belongings into specialized spots. (I fall somewhere in between chaos and order, personally.) While it's easy to be swayed by a bag's exterior appearance, don't forget to take a peek inside to make sure it matches your packing preferences.

Make sure it's practical to move around with.

I've packed this list with a variety of bag styles, because there are so many different ways to haul stuff from place to place. Maybe you prefer to keep things out of sight and out of mind by throwing a bag on your back, or perhaps you prefer to let wheels carry the load. Whatever your style, there's something here for everyone! Look out for things like 360-degree spinner wheels, cushy handles, adjustable straps, and lightweight designs to ensure your journey is as comfy as can be.

Study up on special features.

IMHO, the cherry on top of any underseat bag is a cool extra feature! Some of my favorites are nifty key leashes, convenient water bottle holders, and even built-in USB ports to keep your phone juiced up. These small but mighty touches can turn a blah travel experience into an awesome one. (Believe me, as someone whose phone is perpetually on life support, having a built-in charger has saved my life on multiple occasions.) The TLDR: Think about what features would make your life easier, and find an underseat bag that checks all your boxes.

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Hearst Owned

Why trust Cosmo?

As you probably know, Cosmo's lifestyle team spends all day, every day scouring the internet, testing products, and reading reviews so we can bring you the type of high-quality content we'd want for ourselves (and our standards are preeeetty darn high, TBH).

It's also really important to us that each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge, and we try to make sure the products we feature are good for both you and our planet. If we wouldn't buy something for ourselves, we sure as heck won't recommend it to you—and we're always gonna keep it really, really real. Pinky swear.

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Hearst Owned

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