10 Best Underseat Bags For Airplanes 2026 in the United States

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Underseat Carry-On Travel Tote is a solid option for those seeking a compact and lightweight bag for air travel. With dimensions of 11 x 18 x 8 inches and a weight of just 1.6 pounds, it's designed to fit comfortably under the seat of most airlines, making it ideal for short trips or weekend getaways. The bag is crafted from durable polyester fabric with a water-repellent coating, which adds to its longevity and protection against spills or moisture. Its ergonomic zipper pulls and handy H20 Guard interior lining further enhance its usability.

One of the standout features is its organizational capabilities. The roomy interior, combined with built-in pockets, allows for easy packing and access to your items, keeping everything neatly stored. The rear strap for secure stacking is a thoughtful addition, enabling you to attach it to a larger suitcase when needed. Carrying options are versatile as well, with a top handle and a removable padded shoulder strap.

There are a couple of points to consider. While the fabric is durable, it may not be as scratch-resistant compared to hard-sided options, which could be a concern for frequent travelers who prioritize appearance. The bag's size, while convenient for most airlines, might not be suitable for those who need to carry larger items or more extensive travel gear, as it does prioritize compactness. The bag’s warranty covers damage from airlines, but it's important to register it after purchase to take advantage of this benefit. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is a great choice for travelers looking for a lightweight, user-friendly underseat bag that emphasizes organization and easy handling, making it particularly beneficial for casual travelers and weekend warriors.

The Samsonite Better Than Basics Weekender Duffle is a well-designed travel bag that fits nicely under most airplane seats and is great for short trips or weekend getaways. Its dimensions (18.9" x 14.2" x 9.8") keep it compact enough to avoid bulk while still offering plenty of space. A standout feature is the drop-bottom compartment, which allows you to separate shoes or bulkier items from your clothes, helping keep things organized. The bag is lightweight at just 2.9 pounds, making it easy to carry without adding extra weight to your luggage. It includes a padded compartment that comfortably fits laptops up to 14 inches, protecting your device during travel.

Several pockets inside and outside help keep essentials handy and organized, including a front zippered pocket for quick access. The adjustable, padded shoulder strap and SmartSleeve trolley strap enhance carrying comfort and convenience when moving through airports. The bag's durable RPET lining suggests good quality and eco-friendliness, which is a nice bonus.

On the downside, while the bag is spacious for its size, those needing to carry more than a weekend's worth of items might find it a bit limiting. Also, it lacks rigid structure, so it may not protect fragile items as well as some hard-sided bags. This duffle offers a smart balance of organization, size, and comfort, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking a versatile underseat bag for quick trips.

The LUGGEX Underseat Carry On Luggage is designed to be a practical option for travelers who need a lightweight and airline-approved personal item. Its dimensions of 15.7 x 13.4 x 7.7 inches ensure it fits under most airplane seats, making it a great choice for short trips. Weighing in at 4.75 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability, which is ideal for those who prefer to travel light.

This bag stands out with its thoughtful compartments, including a padded section for a 15.6-inch laptop and front organizers for easy access to essentials like tickets and chargers. The main compartment is spacious enough for clothes and toiletries, catering well to weekend getaways. Its smooth-rolling wheels and ergonomic handle enhance mobility, allowing you to navigate through busy airports without hassle.

One potential drawback is the recommendation not to overfill the front pocket to comply with airline regulations, which might limit how much you can pack. While the material is soft-sided, some users might prefer a more rigid structure for added protection of their belongings. The bag does come with a 3-year protection plan, which reflects the manufacturer's commitment to quality and customer service, a reassuring factor for buyers.

If you're frequently on short trips and need a reliable underseat bag, the LUGGEX offers a blend of convenience and style. However, be mindful of space limitations if you tend to pack a lot. It's best suited for travelers looking for something lightweight and easy to handle, rather than those requiring a hard-shell or oversized options.