I ended up taking my Kanken on a trip to Ohio in February. I had it stuffed to the gills with my essential items, including an extra pair of boots since I was wearing light shoes and it was blizzarding there. Boyfriend thought I was being paranoid and only brought his wallet and a book so I put some of his stuff in there too. The airline ended up losing our luggage. Moral of the story, buy a Kanken and ignore your boyfriend.
Great video! It would also be nice to see it from a female point of view since purses usually get left out of the conversation, although I guess it could sometimes be a substitute for the sling bag. As someone who likes ALL THE BAGS it's hard for me to choose proper steps and not over pack. When I travel, a purse is always something extra I pack into the day pack... a bag in a bag. Anybody else?
Same! I never actually use my purse as a bag while traveling but I have it in my larger bag for use when I’m where I’m going. I tend to travel with a backpack style carry-on (EBags mother lode junior is my current go-to) and then a larger tote (often my “work bag”, or some other tote if not a work trip) as my personal item. I’ve actually found on a small plane I can often get the backpack under the seat if not overpacked, and the tote in the tiny overhead bin, meaning I don’t have to gate check anything. I’m slightly obsessed with one bag/light travel, so I enjoy the challenge of limiting my stuff. If I do decide to go with a traditional roll aboard carry-on, then my personal item is a regular backpack (I have one from Patagonia I love). Watching this video I just remembered I have a packable Patagonia backpack that is rectangular and would be great for travel, but since I also like ALL THE BAGS I forgot I owned…
I carry a convertible wristlet for the flight, containing a slim wallet, phone, earphones and travel documents. After the flight I just switch the wrist strap for a crossbody strap and now you have a small purse. They've never bothered me over it since it's not really a second bag. More like a big pouch or wallet.
Thanks for sharing, Malarie! I've passed your comment about having a female point of view along to the team. I think we've all found ourselves in a bag-ception and wondered how we got there 😂 - Austin
I pack one nice small cross body to have “something for the dress” . Since this item is not practical during flights, I use it as a camera gear storage in my cabin luggage.
I learned a trick with the Kanken Backpack my most recent flight. I wore a thick jacket so that I wouldn't need to pack it, but then found myself getting overheated in some parts of the airport. I rolled my jacket tight and put it ontop of my bag and then was just barely able to clip the hand straps over it. For extra security I then put my hero clip carabiner over the handles in case it came undone. Obviously this is a very specific use-case, but it was extremely useful in the moment to not have one more thing to carry by hand.
I've heard it was best to travel in layers, as it could get cold on a flight, or wherever destination you choose happens to be cold. I've heard of someone using said jacket as an extra compartment space, though they never really stated HOW! ^^
No matter how many times I pack a personal bag, I always love watching videos to see if anyone does the same as I do, or if there's any new tricks of the trade I can pick up. Another great video from you guys. Cheers.
I use my 17” kånken as my main bag and my kånken sling for the things I need easy access to I usually pack 2 jeans, 3 shirts, 7 underwear and 7 socks for a week. I usually hand wash my travel leggings so I can use them for travelling on the way home
I highly recommend downloading books, audiobooks, music, and/or movies orto your phone before traveling. Not all airlines have inflight entertainment and the ones that do can’t guarantee that it’ll be working during the flight. Also, your phone is something that you will be bringing anyway so it’s not an additional item. Make sure to bring a portable charger also. I’m a flight attendant and it happens rarely on my airline but it does happen that our inflight entertainment doesn’t work or the charger at your seat may be down for that flight.
Just a tip: wear the sling as a fanny, people are much less likely to question it or think twice since it comes off more as a belt than another gear hauler. Once last the gate, throw that sucker back over your shoulder for your headphones, wipes and snacks.
For bigger airlines this will probably be ok. But definitely not with smaller, discount airlines. Be prepared to have that thing crammed into your bag last minute just in case.
Love the video concept! As a caution to those who like the personal item + mini sling combo, I have had issues a coupqle of times when I have had "2 bags" without paying for an overhead carryon. I tried explaining that I was not putting anything in the overhead bin (the smaller bag/oversized wallet would either stay on my person or go under the seat with the personal item bag) but they still made me attempt to stuff the smaller sling inside the personal item bag until I was actually in my seat. 🤷♀️
Yeah they will count a sling as a perosnal item. If it works for you, I suggest a "running" waist pack that's slim for your wallet/ID/phone/Boarding pass and hide it under your shirt after going through tsa. Or turn it around and have it toward your back, buckle in front, still under your shirt.
For sure they can ask you to pay for the extra bag if you can’t stuff it in your personal item. I mean, that’s what we agree to when we buy the ticket, but I’ve seen people at the get getting upset at the gate agents. Them’s the rules! I always make sure I can cram my purse into my personal item. If I can’t, that means I need another bag. And that means I have to pay for it. It’s pretty simple, but people forget it. So thanks for the reminder!
One time my back pack didn’t pass the fit test , nurse cratchet got me ,,, it had swollen too large for the trip home with Purchases. I took stuff out right there at the gate during boarding ,and started layering it in my body . Lol Got on the flight sat down and started peeling them back off and stuffing into the sack .
Just finished up 2 one bag travel trips to avoid carry on fees. Staying with friends and being able to do a load of laundry half way through each trip has saved weight and cash! My backpack was a freebie from HP (yeah, the printer company) but it’s the perfect size for a budget airline personal item size.
I use a lightweight purse organizer and pack all the things I might need on the plane in it. Book, tablet, phone, Lip balm, earphones or ear buds, snacks, meds, etc in it. I love that it has both a large compartment in the middle as well as many small compartments on both sides so I can organize all my little stuff. I have a hero clip as well as an extra carabiner hooked on. I take the whole thing out of my personal item bag when I'm getting settled into my seat. I hang this from the seat in front of meme. I also clip my water bottle onto it or hook a carabiner over the edge of the tray table hinge. Everything I need is right there and I don't have to bend over and rummage around in my personal item. Before leaving the plane I slide the whole thing right back inside my personal item.
Lip balm is like… a must. I do not care what I’m doing. I could be sitting at home all day or I could be on a 12 hour flight, I will have lip balm on me
@@Homepage. I have a lip balm in my pocket, one in my purse organizer and a third one somewhere in my purse. In other words, I can never be without lip balm!
I use variously coloured and sized transparent zip-lock bags. The contents of each bag can be quickly viewed, and the different colours can also be used to identify contents. Need tech items, grab the green bag. Toiletries, the blue bag, etc.
Ziploc bags are the forgotten heroes of travel. Nearly weightless, transparent, cheap, and pretty sturdy. We would pay good money for all of the above attributes in one product, but we forget about ziplocs because they’re not cool.
as a minimalist traveller, I steer clear from top loading packs. these include cinched, drawpulled, roll-down, flapped designs. they make accessing items a hassle, and also packing without having full directional access to the space can be very frustrating and challenging. look for packs that zip and open up fully like a luggage.
i use a 25 L tom bihn bag and i love it. never had a problem fitting it under the seat as a personal item in any flight and its designed to fit around and balance a 32oz water bottle which i love bc they are heavy and alway having them in a side pocket always throws the balance off
A small stuff sack filled with the things I need while in my seat, like chapstick, lotion, a pen, and Kleenex, with a carabiner to attach to the back of the seat in front of me, holds them within easy reach so I don’t need to bend down
One of my favorite hacks is to save any small-sized packaging materials, like small baggies, tins, boxes, etc. and use them to organize smaller items. I think organization for smaller items is often overlooked but is super helpful in keeping a bag neat and organized, especially in personal items, and it's a great way to save money! I also love having some rubber bands and binder clips on hand (in a mini baggie, using my last hack haha); they take up very little space I find them useful for keeping cords straight (especially earbuds!), holding cash or credit cards, and other odds and ends.
I use a small sling as a pouch that has all my important documents, money/ credit/debit cards, earbud headphones, and the small things I'll need while navigating the airport so when I get through the security checkpoint, I can take the sling out and use it while on the airport and it'll fit back in my day pack when boarding the flight.
my first ever trip to europe i did it with a 25 liter bag for 1 month and a half, you and chase reeves made me realize i can do it around 4 years ago and i always do one bag travel now
The Topo Designs accessory bags have been the perfect solution for me to store tech and slide it into that area of the bottom of the outer pocket of my bag. That area was an awkwardly shaped empty black hole till now. I would suggest going for the nylon versions rather than the canvas (which I went for) so it slides in and out easier. Tip: they have stores at the Denver Airport and sometimes have their products on sale.
I’ve flown etihad for the last few years and had no idea that some of the things we take for granted are not considered common in some airlines (inflight entertainment, our carryons have never been measured or paid for at checkin, etc). Thanks for all your helpful videos, have learned a ton, I overpacked way too much last year for a winter vacay but was able to pack all my clothes in a carryon last time I flew.
@@mandyhuynh5756 There's usually two clips, open them both and lay the jacket with the hood at the top. Close the top clip and then fold the hood over in half and secure the bottom strap
After managing to snag the seat WITHOUT a working entertainment system on two separate very long flights, please do NOT rely on the monitors to work for your flight! Bring entertainment! Also, great video. I've learned a lot from these even after extensive travel over the years.
Some airlines like TAP Portugal allow two items of cabin baggage but the personal item bag can only have a max weight of 2 kg. which is not a lot really. Sometimes passengers with larger type personal items bags as show here are often told to put them in the overhead bins.
Quite a few products not available in the UK - like Topo / Husky pouches, Peak design are nice but quite expensive. For pouches I've found Magpul and Nite Ize really good, high capacity, semi-see through and ideal for storing bits and bobs. The 5.11 LV10 sling is very handy - decent storage, can wear on your front and has good capacity
Made a big mistake on my first internation flight. My personal item bag was way too big and I had no room for my feet for the long very uncomfortable 10 hour flight to Iceland. Couldn't put it in the overhead bin because of the things I needed during the flight. I tried to make it do dual duty and brought things that should have been in my no-fee checked luggage.
I use the Osprey Questa 26 for short trips (3 days) And I have a bumbag that I use as a crossbody bag with my important personal items. And it works perfectly for me. when the bumbag is an issue with he airline I make sure it still fits in my backpack so that I have 1 personal item.
I remember when people didn't bring anything on the plane, I usually brought nothing in the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. I only brought a backpack when I was actually going backpacking, which was only 3 times. One time I brought on a Rick Steves carry-on and put it under the seat. It is a good bag, but after that trip I just checked it. It's very light. You should review the Rick Steves carry-on. It is called the Classic Back Door Bag.
@@PackHacker You might want to review the Civita Day Bag too. It weighs almost nothing but is very sturdy. I used it every day to bring things to work and it is still in great shape. It can pack away easily.
I will say having a quick note on your phone can be brilliant to note the things you want to remember for next trip and actually be able to find the note next time you take a trip
I try to keep my bag to a few tech items, snacks, change of clothes, and travel documents. Honestly when it comes to clothes I’ll just pay the fee for the checked bag
I’ve actually been able to get away with using my Peak Designs 30L V2 as my personal item on both Spirit and Frontier on about 3 round trip flights now! One bag travel keeps things simple and less stressful!
I've used the Prvke 31 liter which barely meets the personal item dimensions for spirit and frontier airlines when compressed. Fits a week's worth of stuff!
This may sound weird but I have a 26L Tortuga Setout as an EDC (Every Day Carry) and sometimes when I can’t take my backpack with me (like inside of a supermarket) I just undo the weight straps, I cross them together and I make a sling so that I can leave my backpack at costumer service. Does this add to the conversion? No, but its something funny that I do, lol.
I recommend a drawstring bag as your personal item and only luggade if You travel on Ryanair. I have packed the small bag for a two week holiday, no problem!
I always only travel with my big ol' dakine backpack (33L) and budget european airlines have never stopped me or charged me more money, maybe I've just gotten lucky or maybe yhey don't pay employees enough to care!
Just a quick tip: the measurements on the RyanAir, WizzAir etc websites are only a rough estimate. I have always carried 48cm tall backpacks (instead of 40) as under seat ones and sometimes even deeper than the maximum. Although this can be easily fixed by not packing the backpack fully to the brim. I was never required to measure my backpack by the airline personell. At the moment I'll be using my new TNF Recon for such cases. In the past I used several Osprey packs (ie. Daylite Plus 48 cm tall, Syncro 20 48cm tall 27 deep instead of 20 and was fully packed) without any issues at all.
Thanks for your advice! I really appreciate it since the next time I travel, I want it to be light! I always had trouble with packing more than I needed for a single trip, which isn't helpful with flying!
I travel across Europe once per month and I use the North Face Surge from 2021, it is my only carry on as I travel between homes...I only ever carry clothes if they are new bought in the UK to wear in Slovenia...It carries my laptop and ipad very well plus headphones and a headrest (Memoryfoam wedge from Jzsk) and anything else I bring back with me...never had a problem putting it under the seat and I never get asked to check it.
Great video, as per your usual!! I'm an amateur photographer so I always include my camera and a few lenses in my carryon. I guess cel phones have replaced cameras for many, but I do enjoy travelling with one. So, I make a point of putting my expensive equipment in my carryon. Any tips you may have for travelling with camera gear would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!
Hi Malik! We have a guide to help you select the best camera kit for your travels. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for your support! - Austin packhacker.com/guide/the-best-camera-kit-for-your-travels/
Hi Elda! We're fans of the Peak Design Packing Cubes. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/packing-cubes/
Could you guys PLEASE do a video on good carry-on bags that are accepted on easy jet and Ryan air? I've been looking for a bag for a weekend trip with easy jet because I highly doubt my 40L REI Ruckpack will be allowed. Something I can fit 2-5 days worth of clothes and mini toiletries. Thank you!
Hey there! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below: - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/ packhacker.com/release-radar/
In addition to a personal item bag, pack a sling on your person underneath a baggy shirt. If you look pregnant or chubby, you can’t be harassed for that.
Actually I tried your tips and it really works. But the sling/shoulder bag it counts as personal bag so I had to squeeze into my backpack. Its unusual because they don't care my shoulder bag but you were right to mention different airlines has different rules. The airlines is cheap but they are strict with the luggage or bags item. Good thing my shoulder bag holds only passport, cash, cards - small so it can squeeze in. I rather go back to AirCanada even its expensive at least I'm comfortable and no luggage issues.
Is the kanken 15'' laptop bag a good personal item for ryanair flights? I know dimension wise it exceeds 3cm the width of their limits. But maybe it could do.
Hi there! That's the Fjallraven Raven 20L Backpack. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/fjallraven/raven-20l-backpack/
In your experience, what is the average range of capacity you are allowed to take as a Personal Bag? 20L? Not the smallest, but average of more standard airlines
Hey Kim! We featured the Patagonia Atom Sling. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/patagonia/atom-sling/
still confused what is allowed. I thought a small backpack like this one counts as carry on. But you can have this AND a Osprey Farpoint 40 for example?
Hi Louis! That is The North Face Daypack. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/daypack-2/
Another great video. 👏🏻 I often use a Patagonia Toromiro (unfortunately discontinued) when looking to maximize personal item packing space. It is 22L and fits the exact dimensions of all personal item spaces that I've encountered. That said, the bag isn't really structured and I usually don't like carrying it around the city (generally prefer a tote style bag or sling for that)... Would love to find something that can serve both purposes so I don't have to pack an extra tote bag inside my bag anymore... I also frequently carry a mirrorless Fuji camera body with 1-2 lenses and would love to not need one of those clunky bag inserts (again the bag inside a bag conundrum) 🙃 If ya have any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated :-)
Glad you like the video, Will! The camera insert conundrum is tough to address unless you have a bag that is designed to accommodate it. Some bags, like the WANDRD PRVKE and Peak Design Everyday have side access zippers that open to the camera cube. I'll drop some links below! packhacker.com/travel-gear/wandrd/prvke-21l/ packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/everyday-backpack-20l-v2/
I carry my dslr in the biggest case logic "holster" they had at target when I went looking for one, it's perfect for the camera, one lens, a couple batteries, and some other accessories like an otg cable to plug it into my phone. It's barely adds any bulk to the camera so it still fits in the same spot in my dedicated camera bag so I can have it ready and just carry around a much smaller bag when I leave camp or wherever. It also protects the camera if I decide to not take my whole camera bag and just throw it into my backpack.
Hey there! Although we have haven't tested them, there are definitely some solution out there. I'll drop some links below! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/vanquest/hydra-water-bottle-holder/ packhacker.com/travel-gear/banana-backpacks/side-hustle-water-bottle-holder/
Can you recommend a comfortable EDC backpack to carry with a larger capacity 25-35 liters that has a trolley strap/sleeve so you don't need to haul around a heavy pack while traveling and can strap it onto your suitcase? I've been looking for a while and don't find too many good options. Ive been looking at the ebags motherlode junior, Vera Bradley journey, love the north face/osprey packs but they don't have the luggage strap. Any recommendations?
Hey Tim! That packable jacket is from Patagonia. They offer multiple options - I'll drop a link below! - Austin ruclips.net/video/lrEQXh0tyWE/видео.html
Hi Ryan! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below: - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/ packhacker.com/release-radar/
Hey there! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below: - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/ packhacker.com/release-radar/
My favorite under the seat bag is my Tumi Medium Travel Tote. It holds both my iPads and all my incidentals. Everything I need during the flight fits in there with plenty of room left over. I don't even have to expand it.
Use code BCPACK for 15% off your first purchase at Backcountry 👉 packha.kr/yqqk (exclusions may apply).
I ended up taking my Kanken on a trip to Ohio in February. I had it stuffed to the gills with my essential items, including an extra pair of boots since I was wearing light shoes and it was blizzarding there. Boyfriend thought I was being paranoid and only brought his wallet and a book so I put some of his stuff in there too. The airline ended up losing our luggage. Moral of the story, buy a Kanken and ignore your boyfriend.
Wise words 😂
Thanks for sharing!
- Austin
I'm not gonna say it. I'm not gonna say it! Uh oh, I have to say it. OHIO IS WEIRD
@@imjustasillygooberwithcheesewow so funny
Did you ever get the luggage back??
Great video! It would also be nice to see it from a female point of view since purses usually get left out of the conversation, although I guess it could sometimes be a substitute for the sling bag. As someone who likes ALL THE BAGS it's hard for me to choose proper steps and not over pack. When I travel, a purse is always something extra I pack into the day pack... a bag in a bag. Anybody else?
Same! I never actually use my purse as a bag while traveling but I have it in my larger bag for use when I’m where I’m going. I tend to travel with a backpack style carry-on (EBags mother lode junior is my current go-to) and then a larger tote (often my “work bag”, or some other tote if not a work trip) as my personal item. I’ve actually found on a small plane I can often get the backpack under the seat if not overpacked, and the tote in the tiny overhead bin, meaning I don’t have to gate check anything. I’m slightly obsessed with one bag/light travel, so I enjoy the challenge of limiting my stuff. If I do decide to go with a traditional roll aboard carry-on, then my personal item is a regular backpack (I have one from Patagonia I love). Watching this video I just remembered I have a packable Patagonia backpack that is rectangular and would be great for travel, but since I also like ALL THE BAGS I forgot I owned…
I carry a convertible wristlet for the flight, containing a slim wallet, phone, earphones and travel documents. After the flight I just switch the wrist strap for a crossbody strap and now you have a small purse. They've never bothered me over it since it's not really a second bag. More like a big pouch or wallet.
Thanks for sharing, Malarie! I've passed your comment about having a female point of view along to the team.
I think we've all found ourselves in a bag-ception and wondered how we got there 😂
- Austin
@@PackHacker No doubt! Thanks Austin.
I pack one nice small cross body to have “something for the dress” . Since this item is not practical during flights, I use it as a camera gear storage in my cabin luggage.
I learned a trick with the Kanken Backpack my most recent flight. I wore a thick jacket so that I wouldn't need to pack it, but then found myself getting overheated in some parts of the airport. I rolled my jacket tight and put it ontop of my bag and then was just barely able to clip the hand straps over it. For extra security I then put my hero clip carabiner over the handles in case it came undone.
Obviously this is a very specific use-case, but it was extremely useful in the moment to not have one more thing to carry by hand.
Sometimes smart travel means coming up with solutions on the fly. Thanks for sharing, Matthew!
- Austin
I've heard it was best to travel in layers, as it could get cold on a flight, or wherever destination you choose happens to be cold. I've heard of someone using said jacket as an extra compartment space, though they never really stated HOW! ^^
I do the same with my rolled travel yoga mat - it just fits under the handles.
No matter how many times I pack a personal bag, I always love watching videos to see if anyone does the same as I do, or if there's any new tricks of the trade I can pick up. Another great video from you guys. Cheers.
Thanks for the support!
- Austin
This video was meant for cheapskates humans//
Yes, I do that also. Either videos are a great source of reminders of previously heard/used tips or a packing tip of which I hadn't yet heard. 😁❤️✈️🧳💺
Leave room (or bring a second, packable bag) for souvenirs, etc.! Don't forget: you can mail yourself items that won't fit!
I use my 17” kånken as my main bag and my kånken sling for the things I need easy access to
I usually pack 2 jeans, 3 shirts, 7 underwear and 7 socks for a week. I usually hand wash my travel leggings so I can use them for travelling on the way home
I highly recommend downloading books, audiobooks, music, and/or movies orto your phone before traveling. Not all airlines have inflight entertainment and the ones that do can’t guarantee that it’ll be working during the flight. Also, your phone is something that you will be bringing anyway so it’s not an additional item. Make sure to bring a portable charger also. I’m a flight attendant and it happens rarely on my airline but it does happen that our inflight entertainment doesn’t work or the charger at your seat may be down for that flight.
Thanks for the insights 🤙
-Eric
Just a tip: wear the sling as a fanny, people are much less likely to question it or think twice since it comes off more as a belt than another gear hauler. Once last the gate, throw that sucker back over your shoulder for your headphones, wipes and snacks.
Good tip! Thanks for sharing, Paul!
- Austin
For bigger airlines this will probably be ok. But definitely not with smaller, discount airlines. Be prepared to have that thing crammed into your bag last minute just in case.
Love the video concept! As a caution to those who like the personal item + mini sling combo, I have had issues a coupqle of times when I have had "2 bags" without paying for an overhead carryon. I tried explaining that I was not putting anything in the overhead bin (the smaller bag/oversized wallet would either stay on my person or go under the seat with the personal item bag) but they still made me attempt to stuff the smaller sling inside the personal item bag until I was actually in my seat. 🤷♀️
Hi there! Thanks for sharing your experience. Glad you like the video!
- Austin
Yeah they will count a sling as a perosnal item. If it works for you, I suggest a "running" waist pack that's slim for your wallet/ID/phone/Boarding pass and hide it under your shirt after going through tsa. Or turn it around and have it toward your back, buckle in front, still under your shirt.
I make sure that I have enough space in my backpack if it becomes an issue with the airline
For sure they can ask you to pay for the extra bag if you can’t stuff it in your personal item. I mean, that’s what we agree to when we buy the ticket, but I’ve seen people at the get getting upset at the gate agents. Them’s the rules! I always make sure I can cram my purse into my personal item. If I can’t, that means I need another bag. And that means I have to pay for it. It’s pretty simple, but people forget it. So thanks for the reminder!
One time my back pack didn’t pass the fit test , nurse cratchet got me ,,, it had swollen too large for the trip home with Purchases.
I took stuff out right there at the gate during boarding ,and started layering it in my body . Lol
Got on the flight sat down and started peeling them back off and stuffing into the sack .
Just finished up 2 one bag travel trips to avoid carry on fees. Staying with friends and being able to do a load of laundry half way through each trip has saved weight and cash! My backpack was a freebie from HP (yeah, the printer company) but it’s the perfect size for a budget airline personal item size.
Love it! Thanks for sharing, Steph!
- Austin
I use a lightweight purse organizer and pack all the things I might need on the plane in it. Book, tablet, phone, Lip balm, earphones or ear buds, snacks, meds, etc in it. I love that it has both a large compartment in the middle as well as many small compartments on both sides so I can organize all my little stuff. I have a hero clip as well as an extra carabiner hooked on. I take the whole thing out of my personal item bag when I'm getting settled into my seat. I hang this from the seat in front of meme. I also clip my water bottle onto it or hook a carabiner over the edge of the tray table hinge. Everything I need is right there and I don't have to bend over and rummage around in my personal item. Before leaving the plane I slide the whole thing right back inside my personal item.
Awesome hack, Sheri! Thanks for sharing!
- Austin
This is brilliant!! Love this!
Lip balm is like… a must. I do not care what I’m doing. I could be sitting at home all day or I could be on a 12 hour flight, I will have lip balm on me
@@Homepage. I have a lip balm in my pocket, one in my purse organizer and a third one somewhere in my purse. In other words, I can never be without lip balm!
@@SheriWinston it’s literally like…muscle memory. Every couple hours I just automatically put lip balm on 😭😂
I use variously coloured and sized transparent zip-lock bags. The contents of each bag can be quickly viewed, and the different colours can also be used to identify contents. Need tech items, grab the green bag. Toiletries, the blue bag, etc.
Sounds like a solid system. Thanks for sharing!
- Austin
Ziploc bags are the forgotten heroes of travel. Nearly weightless, transparent, cheap, and pretty sturdy. We would pay good money for all of the above attributes in one product, but we forget about ziplocs because they’re not cool.
as a minimalist traveller, I steer clear from top loading packs. these include cinched, drawpulled, roll-down, flapped designs. they make accessing items a hassle, and also packing without having full directional access to the space can be very frustrating and challenging. look for packs that zip and open up fully like a luggage.
Thanks for the tips and advice! Certain features while traveling are pretty helpful, and some just get in the way.
-Eric
i use a 25 L tom bihn bag and i love it. never had a problem fitting it under the seat as a personal item in any flight and its designed to fit around and balance a 32oz water bottle which i love bc they are heavy and alway having them in a side pocket always throws the balance off
Thanks for sharing, Rowan!
- Austin
A small stuff sack filled with the things I need while in my seat, like chapstick, lotion, a pen, and Kleenex, with a carabiner to attach to the back of the seat in front of me, holds them within easy reach so I don’t need to bend down
The carabiner trick is a favorite of ours. Thanks for sharing!
- Austin
One of my favorite hacks is to save any small-sized packaging materials, like small baggies, tins, boxes, etc. and use them to organize smaller items. I think organization for smaller items is often overlooked but is super helpful in keeping a bag neat and organized, especially in personal items, and it's a great way to save money! I also love having some rubber bands and binder clips on hand (in a mini baggie, using my last hack haha); they take up very little space I find them useful for keeping cords straight (especially earbuds!), holding cash or credit cards, and other odds and ends.
Totally agree, Michael! We even have a video about this. I'll drop the link below!
- Austin
ruclips.net/video/0DExNkI9b68/видео.html
I use a small sling as a pouch that has all my important documents, money/ credit/debit cards, earbud headphones, and the small things I'll need while navigating the airport so when I get through the security checkpoint, I can take the sling out and use it while on the airport and it'll fit back in my day pack when boarding the flight.
my first ever trip to europe i did it with a 25 liter bag for 1 month and a half, you and chase reeves made me realize i can do it around 4 years ago and i always do one bag travel now
Gald we could help, Allen!
- Austin
The Topo Designs accessory bags have been the perfect solution for me to store tech and slide it into that area of the bottom of the outer pocket of my bag. That area was an awkwardly shaped empty black hole till now. I would suggest going for the nylon versions rather than the canvas (which I went for) so it slides in and out easier. Tip: they have stores at the Denver Airport and sometimes have their products on sale.
Thanks for sharing, Joe! Spoken like a Pro 😎
- Austin
Fjällräven Kånken Pen Case fits in side pocket :)
For my super efficient folks out there who can pack for an endless trip in your underseat personal item bag, extreme kudos to you! I'm getting there
🤜💥🤛
I’ve flown etihad for the last few years and had no idea that some of the things we take for granted are not considered common in some airlines (inflight entertainment, our carryons have never been measured or paid for at checkin, etc). Thanks for all your helpful videos, have learned a ton, I overpacked way too much last year for a winter vacay but was able to pack all my clothes in a carryon last time I flew.
I like to use a backpack designed to carry a skateboard. The straps are super helpful for carrying bulky jackets etc
Cool idea! I'm sure that comes in handy for winter travel!
- Austin
I have one of thoses back packs! Can you explain how you can Carry jackets?
@@mandyhuynh5756 There's usually two clips, open them both and lay the jacket with the hood at the top. Close the top clip and then fold the hood over in half and secure the bottom strap
Are you from “the” Peralta family of Powell Peralta?
@@Johnnyrouger No, not to my knowledge
After managing to snag the seat WITHOUT a working entertainment system on two separate very long flights, please do NOT rely on the monitors to work for your flight! Bring entertainment!
Also, great video. I've learned a lot from these even after extensive travel over the years.
Thanks for watching!
- Austin
Some airlines like TAP Portugal allow two items of cabin baggage but the personal item bag can only have a max weight of 2 kg. which is not a lot really.
Sometimes passengers with larger type personal items bags as show here are often told to put them in the overhead bins.
I bought the UNDERSEAT PRO backpack, same style as the Fjallraven Kanken (but half the price) it is my favorite travel backpack.
Quite a few products not available in the UK - like Topo / Husky pouches, Peak design are nice but quite expensive. For pouches I've found Magpul and Nite Ize really good, high capacity, semi-see through and ideal for storing bits and bobs.
The 5.11 LV10 sling is very handy - decent storage, can wear on your front and has good capacity
Thanks for sharing!
- Austin
Forever loving how practical are your videos!
So glad you like them! Thanks for the support!
- Austin
Made a big mistake on my first internation flight. My personal item bag was way too big and I had no room for my feet for the long very uncomfortable 10 hour flight to Iceland. Couldn't put it in the overhead bin because of the things I needed during the flight. I tried to make it do dual duty and brought things that should have been in my no-fee checked luggage.
I use the Osprey Questa 26 for short trips (3 days) And I have a bumbag that I use as a crossbody bag with my important personal items. And it works perfectly for me. when the bumbag is an issue with he airline I make sure it still fits in my backpack so that I have 1 personal item.
I remember when people didn't bring anything on the plane, I usually brought nothing in the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. I only brought a backpack when I was actually going backpacking, which was only 3 times. One time I brought on a Rick Steves carry-on and put it under the seat. It is a good bag, but after that trip I just checked it. It's very light.
You should review the Rick Steves carry-on. It is called the Classic Back Door Bag.
Review a bag from the legend himself? I'll pass this on to the team. Thanks for the suggestion, Canyon!
- Austin
@@PackHacker You might want to review the Civita Day Bag too. It weighs almost nothing but is very sturdy. I used it every day to bring things to work and it is still in great shape. It can pack away easily.
I use an Ameribag. Packs everything. Then I sling it behind my back and put on a light jacket and pack my overhead bag.
I will say having a quick note on your phone can be brilliant to note the things you want to remember for next trip and actually be able to find the note next time you take a trip
I try to keep my bag to a few tech items, snacks, change of clothes, and travel documents. Honestly when it comes to clothes I’ll just pay the fee for the checked bag
To each their own - thanks for sharing!
- Austin
This is all I take when travelling, definitely travelling light 👍
I love this. Definitely gotta organize my cords, earbuds, etc in one pouch next time.
Glad we could help, Jennifer!
- Austin
I’ve actually been able to get away with using my Peak Designs 30L V2 as my personal item on both Spirit and Frontier on about 3 round trip flights now! One bag travel keeps things simple and less stressful!
Frontier is amazing and so far I haven’t had an issue with my Kelty bag.
Good data Gray - thanks for sharing!
- Tom
How was the fit under seat?any wiggle room?I have a 5.11 rush 24 37l that I want to use
I've used the Prvke 31 liter which barely meets the personal item dimensions for spirit and frontier airlines when compressed. Fits a week's worth of stuff!
Nice!
5S method everywhere you go. Love it!
This may sound weird but I have a 26L Tortuga Setout as an EDC (Every Day Carry) and sometimes when I can’t take my backpack with me (like inside of a supermarket) I just undo the weight straps, I cross them together and I make a sling so that I can leave my backpack at costumer service.
Does this add to the conversion? No, but its something funny that I do, lol.
Wear a Scottevest jacket onto the plane and you essentially wear a second carry on bag
the Topo Rover Mini si such a sleeper! Glad you guys gave it some credit
Glad you like it - thanks for the support!
- Austin
My interest is in having underseat carry on only for personal travel. Up to a month travelling with limit of around 7kg maximum.
I recommend a drawstring bag as your personal item and only luggade if You travel on Ryanair. I have packed the small bag for a two week holiday, no problem!
FYI - The expression is "A place for everything and everything *in* its place."
I always only travel with my big ol' dakine backpack (33L) and budget european airlines have never stopped me or charged me more money, maybe I've just gotten lucky or maybe yhey don't pay employees enough to care!
I switch between the Nordace sienna and the Osprey Questa for short 3 day
trips
Thanks for sharing, Marjan!
- Austin
Just a quick tip: the measurements on the RyanAir, WizzAir etc websites are only a rough estimate. I have always carried 48cm tall backpacks (instead of 40) as under seat ones and sometimes even deeper than the maximum. Although this can be easily fixed by not packing the backpack fully to the brim. I was never required to measure my backpack by the airline personell. At the moment I'll be using my new TNF Recon for such cases. In the past I used several Osprey packs (ie. Daylite Plus 48 cm tall, Syncro 20 48cm tall 27 deep instead of 20 and was fully packed) without any issues at all.
Ahh nice I needed to hear this
About to travel for a month with a 28L bag! Love this video
Have fun!
Thanks for your advice! I really appreciate it since the next time I travel, I want it to be light! I always had trouble with packing more than I needed for a single trip, which isn't helpful with flying!
Thanks for watching! 😃
-Eric
On long haul flights, I keep my socks (or down booties) in my down sweater pockets in my personal bag. 🙂
Good call, Greg!
-Eric
Love these vid, as a traveling Nomad, there is always a tip I could use
Great to hear! Thanks for the support!
- Austin
It’s funny how you annunciate every sentence with the same inflection!
I bet it makes it easy for friends to do a take off! 😂
I travel across Europe once per month and I use the North Face Surge from 2021, it is my only carry on as I travel between homes...I only ever carry clothes if they are new bought in the UK to wear in Slovenia...It carries my laptop and ipad very well plus headphones and a headrest (Memoryfoam wedge from Jzsk) and anything else I bring back with me...never had a problem putting it under the seat and I never get asked to check it.
Thanks for sharing your insights 🤙
-Eric
Great video, as per your usual!! I'm an amateur photographer so I always include my camera and a few lenses in my carryon. I guess cel phones have replaced cameras for many, but I do enjoy travelling with one. So, I make a point of putting my expensive equipment in my carryon. Any tips you may have for travelling with camera gear would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!
Hi Malik! We have a guide to help you select the best camera kit for your travels. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for your support!
- Austin
packhacker.com/guide/the-best-camera-kit-for-your-travels/
@@PackHacker I'll check it out, thanks!
Also what are your thoughts on compression sacks?! Do you guys have any favorites? Thanks!!
Hi Elda! We're fans of the Peak Design Packing Cubes. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/packing-cubes/
Awesome video. Really helpful! What color is the Konken backpack from the video?
Pack by catogery, type, size..etc. Me as computer guy. Haven't I heard this somewhere before? :D
Could you guys PLEASE do a video on good carry-on bags that are accepted on easy jet and Ryan air? I've been looking for a bag for a weekend trip with easy jet because I highly doubt my 40L REI Ruckpack will be allowed. Something I can fit 2-5 days worth of clothes and mini toiletries. Thank you!
We've got you covered! I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
ruclips.net/video/hl0TN3YIWzU/видео.html
They never check a backpack size
@Vincent Vega i can say at least from my experience, I’ve never had my backpack size checked. Even when flying with low-cost airlines
Hey Packhackers! What is the small duffle that was shown in the video? Looked like a great addition to my carry-on backpack...
Hey there! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below:
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/
packhacker.com/release-radar/
Can you please share a link to the jacket at 4:49 ? The packing size is amazing
Use a neck pillow to stuff in your tshirts.. remove the pillow and put your tshirts in the neck cover!
In addition to a personal item bag, pack a sling on your person underneath a baggy shirt. If you look pregnant or chubby, you can’t be harassed for that.
In Europe you get a personal item and a carry on for free with you on a flight!
Not me taking that same exact bag haha woah
Start at 4:20 unless you want info on how to buy a bag.
Has anyone tried using any of the Blogilates backpacks as a personal item? Do they work well for travel?
Actually I tried your tips and it really works. But the sling/shoulder bag it counts as personal bag so I had to squeeze into my backpack. Its unusual because they don't care my shoulder bag but you were right to mention different airlines has different rules. The airlines is cheap but they are strict with the luggage or bags item. Good thing my shoulder bag holds only passport, cash, cards - small so it can squeeze in. I rather go back to AirCanada even its expensive at least I'm comfortable and no luggage issues.
Why are these not available in India
Guess have to bring them when I travel abroad
I fit a 42l Allpa pack as a personal item under the seat one time 😂
Now that’s a squeeze! 😆
-Eric
what is the watch he wear in every video ? is it a smartwatch ?
Is the kanken 15'' laptop bag a good personal item for ryanair flights? I know dimension wise it exceeds 3cm the width of their limits. But maybe it could do.
thank you
Thanks for watching, Barbara! 😃
-Eric
Thanks for sharing ❤ 🥀 👍
Thanks for watching! 😊
-Eric
Leaving the switch behind 😳 blasphemy
It was with a heavy heart... 😂
- Austin
Hey, curious what the pinkish backpack is in the top left corner of the background is? It’s a pretty color!
Hi there! That's the Fjallraven Raven 20L Backpack. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/fjallraven/raven-20l-backpack/
Can you please do a video like this, but geared towards people who carry camera equipment.
Hi will! I’ve passed this along to the team. Thanks for the suggestion!
- Austin
@@PackHacker Thank you
Random, but what are the over-the-ear headphones showcased in the video!
Hello! Those are Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H4's 😃
-Ahmad
Where do you by your pocket clothes?
Why do so many bags not actually fit the size description posted by airlines.
Which wrist was mr. Tom wearing?
In your experience, what is the average range of capacity you are allowed to take as a Personal Bag? 20L? Not the smallest, but average of more standard airlines
What sling/ sling bags were featured in this video? Thanks!
Hey Kim! We featured the Patagonia Atom Sling. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/patagonia/atom-sling/
still confused what is allowed. I thought a small backpack like this one counts as carry on. But you can have this AND a Osprey Farpoint 40 for example?
Well said, Zebra Last!
- Austin
What is that blue North Face backpack that’s used throughout?
Hi Louis! That is The North Face Daypack. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/daypack-2/
Another great video. 👏🏻 I often use a Patagonia Toromiro (unfortunately discontinued) when looking to maximize personal item packing space. It is 22L and fits the exact dimensions of all personal item spaces that I've encountered. That said, the bag isn't really structured and I usually don't like carrying it around the city (generally prefer a tote style bag or sling for that)... Would love to find something that can serve both purposes so I don't have to pack an extra tote bag inside my bag anymore... I also frequently carry a mirrorless Fuji camera body with 1-2 lenses and would love to not need one of those clunky bag inserts (again the bag inside a bag conundrum) 🙃 If ya have any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated :-)
Glad you like the video, Will! The camera insert conundrum is tough to address unless you have a bag that is designed to accommodate it. Some bags, like the WANDRD PRVKE and Peak Design Everyday have side access zippers that open to the camera cube. I'll drop some links below!
packhacker.com/travel-gear/wandrd/prvke-21l/
packhacker.com/travel-gear/peak-design/everyday-backpack-20l-v2/
I carry my dslr in the biggest case logic "holster" they had at target when I went looking for one, it's perfect for the camera, one lens, a couple batteries, and some other accessories like an otg cable to plug it into my phone. It's barely adds any bulk to the camera so it still fits in the same spot in my dedicated camera bag so I can have it ready and just carry around a much smaller bag when I leave camp or wherever. It also protects the camera if I decide to not take my whole camera bag and just throw it into my backpack.
Can I take 2 bags one small for personal n one carryon back bag.?
Check the rules and regulations of the airline that you’ll be flying with 😃
-Eric
is there any peak design personal item bags?
Yes! Here are some of them:
packhacker.com/travel-gear/?term=peak+design+Everyday
- Austin
Paack. Hiya!~ useful take care~💪
Thanks, you too!
I have a bag without a water bottle holder. Is there any good gear to keep a bottle secure in the main compartment?
Hey there! Although we have haven't tested them, there are definitely some solution out there. I'll drop some links below!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/vanquest/hydra-water-bottle-holder/
packhacker.com/travel-gear/banana-backpacks/side-hustle-water-bottle-holder/
@@PackHacker thanks
Do a WANDRD bag review💕
Hey Lee! I'll drop a link to our WANDRD reviews below. Thanks for the comment!
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/wandrd/
Can you recommend a comfortable EDC backpack to carry with a larger capacity 25-35 liters that has a trolley strap/sleeve so you don't need to haul around a heavy pack while traveling and can strap it onto your suitcase? I've been looking for a while and don't find too many good options. Ive been looking at the ebags motherlode junior, Vera Bradley journey, love the north face/osprey packs but they don't have the luggage strap. Any recommendations?
Craghoppers 25l anti theft back pack has the trolley sleeve you are after.
You have great skin
Which jacket is the pachable jacket?
Hey Tim! That packable jacket is from Patagonia. They offer multiple options - I'll drop a link below!
- Austin
ruclips.net/video/lrEQXh0tyWE/видео.html
What brand is the duffel from 1:51?
Hi Ryan! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below:
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/
packhacker.com/release-radar/
What is the small duffle @ :53?
Hey there! That's the Tom Bihn Old School Carry All, which we recently featured on our Release Radar page. I'll drop some links below:
- Austin
packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/old-school-carry-all/
packhacker.com/release-radar/
My favorite under the seat bag is my Tumi Medium Travel Tote. It holds both my iPads and all my incidentals. Everything I need during the flight fits in there with plenty of room left over. I don't even have to expand it.
Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙
-Eric
Really good video thank you
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
- Austin