👉🏻 Here are the bags I demonstrate in this Personal Item Bags Showdown, in order: Pacsafe Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack - www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=pl&ti=7313&pw=253893&mi=19681&pt=3&pri=25&ctc=RUclips Peak Design Everyday Totepack - peak-design.pxf.io/qnernq Nomad Lane Bento Bag - bit.ly/42pSUIX (this link includes a special 10% discount!) Knack Bags Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack® - knack-bags.pxf.io/q44nZy
Sorry N. - I know how it sounds but I prefer downloading $700 for bottle of Champagne not pink backpack 🎒. That easily coming into theft eyes (remember we talking not fashion show but eventually traveling to…Moscow where even camaraderie Lenin paid close attention to ha hat. /hope yo know a joke/
@@NoraDunn First Lady that not isn’t concerned sipping or pouring down Cristal or Krug. Your sentence should say - I prefer pink back pack or whatever brings attention as travel equipment plus(and here mandatory; glass of…
To help with the leg room for long-legged folks, we will move the bag after take off and put it behind our knees. It gives us some extra support under the knees and more foot room. Of course, we put it back for landing.
@@Pluscelamemechose I just pick it up as I stand up and put it on the seat. I usually take those as time for a stretch break. With as crammed in as planes are these days, no one is getting past without me moving anyway.
Nora… I’m focused on backpack weight… (Knack is over two pounds!) I found HERSHEL! Wow! It is SO LIGHT! A HUGE AMOUNT OF SPACE in a small backpack! 24 L! No special compartments to make it heavier! I can place my own lightweight pouches inside! I added a trolley sleeve myself with FABRICTAC! (Glues fabric like sewing!) Biggest plus is how comfortable it is. The padded shoulder straps are awesome! MUCH more comfy than PacSafe! EASY to make it pickpocket proof by putting the zipper pull through both zippers. I even tore apart an old bag and used FABRICTAC to put the lightweight zippered pouch inside the Hershel. I don’t need “slash proof” material. And the price is right! HERSHEL IS GREAT! I’ll be hopping on and off trains a lot. 24 L! You have to try it.
@@lindacormack365 I bought a London Fog underseater, with a sturdy handle and only 2 wheels. I used it and my purse (which could fit inside it to go on Ryanair), and it held my needs for 3 1/2 weeks from the Costa del sol to Sweden in April, so chilly and hot weather. I also broke my wrist on my second day, and with this bag, still managed just great for the rest of my trip despite the cast on my left arm. I did sew extra pockets into my light wool jacket, to hold all the stuff I really needed on me.
I must say, that this is a very important topic that Nora selected (as always). Seems that it does not matter - what personal bag you could use (especially for not very experienced traveller) - but I understand that importance. First - should be comfortable and not very heavy, but steady. You take all necessary items there and this personal bag stays in front of you, you might get into that bag at least several times during the flight (getting pen, some food, drink perhaps, some warmer clothing, book, phone etc. Your electronics should be protected there. Second - it would be great if this bag can serve as additional support for your legs, during the long flight you will see the difference. And - finally - the bag should be comfortably located above your carry-on (if you fly with carry-on) as you will have long walks in airport.
Great tips, An - thank you! I'll be doing another video in the new year about packing a personal item bag for flight comfort, and these kinds of tips are invaluable. Thank you!
I like my Osprey Ozone Boarding Bag, it's 20L and fits nicely under the seat. I use it in conjunction with my Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack which is 45L so all together I get 65L of capacity and for my typical 20-30 day trips this is a great setup. I wear a Patagonia Atom Sling Pack like a fanny pack which is usually empty while getting on to the plane and then use that as my daily bag but also have a Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack in my Carry-on for when I go hiking and need more storage for gear.
I’ve got an Osprey 20 litre personal item bag too. Very happy for it for short trips. For longer work trips I use a larger 5.11 RUSH 72 rucksack so I use a smaller chest pouch/sling as my personal item.
I use a Rubalino diaper bag backpack. Lots of nice organizational pockets, two exterior water bottle holders, lightweight, and is the right size for personal item on most airlines. Also not expensive. Comes in many colors. I’m a senior citizen so this is its only purpose for me.
I adore my Fjallraven kanken. I have the 15" inch laptop one. Super simple, comfortable, and the position of the locks makes it easy to use an s clip or small lock to keep it secure. I know there's lots of fancier, more organized bags out there but personally I enjoy the freedom of one big bucket and a few extra pockets.
Nice! I'm testing out yet another personal item bag on my upcoming trip, and like yours, it has way fewer pockets etc than I'm accustomed to. I'll be interested to see how much I like (or don't like) it.
My last Euro trip I brought a firm soft sided cooler (think Yeti knock-off) as my personal item as I was mainly camping. It also worked great as a footstool during the long flight. I don't need that much stuff during a flight... I am going to try one of those neck pillow sacks for this year's trip
I recently acquired the Pacsafe bag and just returned from taking it on a 10 day trip to Europe. I totally agree with your frustration over the top zipper!!! The bag does conform to airline regs(Air Canada in this case) and fit easily under the seat even on a small connector plane. I didn’t take a laptop with me, but the laptop sleeve was tight for my iPad I appreciated the luggage sleeve so I could carry it on my rolling bag and also used the backpack straps when I needed to grab and go quickly. I do regret buying this bag as it will be small for my longer trips planned foe the future.
Sorry you were disappointed by the Pacsafe bag! If one doesn't have a laptop and too much tech stuff, I think it's a great size, but for longer trips (and/or, lots of tech)....
Thank you for taking time to do the comparison. the quality of the channel *hotdups* is better, I bought it here, and you can ask them to take a photo for confirmation before shipping.
this past christmas, i went through 4 airports and i wandered a lot. I actually heard more than a few gates cracking down on all the carry-on abusers. 2 gates plus one of my own absolutely enforced the 1+1 carryon and told people that they will not board with more than 2. One gate even announced that removing big jackets also counted as a carryon if they didn't keep it with them in the seat. Amazing to see, and it's about time..
I bought a smaller carry on and a smaller personal item for this exact reason a few years ago. The rule abuse is fine when it’s small and easy to ignore but people have gotten so bold with it that you have to be within the exact restrictions to fly
On my last trip (to spend time with family in Ohio) I used my United By Blue (R) Evolution 27 L Mini Duffle. It fit pretty well on the handle of my carry-on but was awkward inside the plane. I had also purchased an Osprey Transporter bag but ended up using it as my work bag because it's waterproof, though I may still use it next trip. Like you, I don't really like shoulder straps (due to chronic neck and shoulder pain), so I'll probably try my Cotopaxi Luzon Eighteen backpack next. It's a simple, lightweight bag but has the chest strap so will be secure.
I finally bought you a cup of ☕️ Nora. Thank you for your videos. My fear is having to check my hard shell carry on because of potential lack overhead bin storage. Seems I always get on last and peoples coats and bags are stuffed into the overheads. I had to check my carry on in a flight and I’ve only flown maybe 5 times. I was so 😡 because my whole plan was to not have checked luggage. So I wonder if it will be better to take a duffel along with my backpack so as to make stuffing easier. You think??
Yeah, gate-checking carry-on luggage can happen. Sorry it happened to you! The good news is, often (but not always) when you gate-check a bag, you don't have to wait around for it at the luggage carousel; they store it in a separate hold and make it available at the gate. Not sure what you mean about taking a duffel; do you mean using a duffel instead of a hard-shell so it stuffs into the overhead bin easier? If yes, then YES - that is a viable strategy. It's one of the reasons I like softshell luggage overall for carry-on: ruclips.net/video/wj_aNrF651s/видео.htmlsi=ur_HIozO_p5-L0EQ Thanks for the coffee! 🙏
Hi Nora - thanks for your videos. I am just flying from Sydney to Do dohar in Qatar. Because I am anxious about transiting from this flight to my flight to Tanzania, ( same day- and gates do change) I have booked a service person to meet me in Qatar and make sure I get to the correct departure gate on time. The service I am using is Al Maha service, gold transit. Other travellers may also find this transit service reassuring. :)
I started with a backpack but I need to use a personal roller bag. If they take my carry on my back can't handle big bulky bags. I think most the smaller roller personal bags are all the same, but I would love to see a video on those I'd love it.
My challenge with personal roller bags are twofold: 1) Rolling that plus my rolling luggage would be awkward (though I guess with a pass-thru strap I could roll both as one) 2) I worry about the weight and space that the wheels would take up; I need to maximize personal item bag space for my tech stuff. But.....that's just me! I'll look into it and see what I can drum up. Do you have a bag you like?
@@NoraDunn I do. It's a Delsey. I would like the inside configured better I guess. I took it and my carry on suitcase to Europe this year. It was great because of course at the last minute they said I had to check my luggage. So for me this was a life saver. It also did fit on top of my other roller so all was good. Thanks.
Great review! I just purchased the Pacsafe® GO anti-theft 34L carryon backpack. It's a clamshell, so it unzips like a suitcase, which is what I was looking for. It meets American Airlines personal item dimensions exactly, and can be compressed to probably fit others, Volume : 34 litres Height : 18.5 inch x Width : 12.6 inch x Depth : 7.9 inch. Weight : 1.64 lbs. I often stay 3 weeks to a month in one place (usually Paris) so I wanted to take a "few more clothes" for weather changes and this drove my criteria. Here's what I can fit inside, without overstuffing it. 2 pairs jeans, 3 short sleeve tees, 1 cardigan, 5 undies, 2 bras, 1 set long pajamas, 1 pair sneakers. In the outside pocket -- iPad, electronic cables, iPhone 15 Pro, Anker power strip, Toiletries ziplock, medicines. I'll try it on my next trip this fall, in addition to my usual Samsonite Black Label (now called Cosmolite) spinner that weighs only 3.8 lbs.
@@NoraDunn I'm 70 and have been traveling solo since my husband died ten years ago. Lightweight is very important to me. My usual rental has 64 old, spiral steps up! I'm so glad you showed the Bento bag. I considered it, but thought about that unbalanced shoulder weight, too. I wished I'd tried the Knack you mention before deciding on the PacSafe. It looks like a great option, too. My most recent trip, I used a shoulder bag personal item and it worked okay. My total combined weight of my two bags was 25 lbs, which I consider my limit for safety and balance. I've had my spinner since 2018, and I can't believe how heavy many of the new spinners are! My older Tumi is 7.8lbs and I just don't carry it anymore. BTW, I've packed that 2014 Tumi Voyager, then packed my Samsonite. All the same clothes fit it, but the hard side doesn't have the pockets. Anyway, I enjoy your videos and tips.
My personal item is a TravelPro wheelie bag. I’m old, it holds my pills and a change of clothes and my tech stuff, and I can roll it rather than wear it. I wear a waist pack to put my ear buds and immediate use pills in and hang it on the tray table. It all works fine
What tech gear do you bring to make your videos?? No water bottle holder is a deal breaker for me. Great video, Nora, thank you! Yours is one of my favorite channels!
Thanks Mia! For tech gear, I have: Lighting - Lume Cube Filming - iPhone (though I did just get a GoPro Mini which I'll use for action shots and setting up a second camera for some gear videos Microphone: Rode Wireless And then various telescoping tripods and adaptors and such for setting everything up in any scenario.
Nora, I love my outbound Marino men’s t in XL. I decided to wear on the long flight to Israel. TMI: I sweat a lot going through TSA, from nervousness or fear. It went unnoticed in this shirt . 😅
It’s funny how on my recent flight on ANA, I was so over the top worried about the weight of my carry on and personal bag not exceed 10kg combined. I was ready to stuff my jacket pockets full of stuff. In the end they didn’t even bother checking! I think I’ve only had my bags weighed/checked three times over 20+ on regular flights. I still feel anxious EVERY TIME I board a flight.
Ha! That anxious feeling is common. I don't tend to fully relax until I've arrived, cleared customs, gotten my bags (if checking), and found my accommodation. ha!
Can you imagine in medieval Europe, kings courier needs all packing into such small bag. Plus horse food and armor (not always, sometimes they travelled light) .
I have trekked in Europe with my horse, 30 pounds maximum including tent and stuff for the horse. Totally doable. Of course you do become a bit of a stinky vagrant, but in my experience at that point a place where we could rent a room at a riding establishment or a camping ground with washing facilities where we could do our laundry would turn up. We packed very little food and stopped at village stores to get groceries.
This is good info - I would prefer a backpack style and limit it to 15 liters in size since I'm 5-11 and have clunky feet which need some space for comfort (especially on long haul flights). With a backpack, you can keep your hands free to deal with your carry on suitcase, when at the check-in counter, navigating crowded areas, etc. Also, the smaller the bag, the more likely the air carrier will allow it onboard. On a recent trip to the Philippines, EVA Air was really cracking down on baggage weight. They specify 7 kilos (15.43 pounds) as the limit for carry-on suitcases, my weighed just shy of 8 kilos (~17 pounds) and I had to check it in. That made for a fun experience at baggage claim in Manila 🤣
United Air Lines: 17" x 9" x 10" -- perhaps the most stingy personal item bag (under the seat) in the U.S. One of the few that meets this requirement is the Tom Bihn Night Flight Travel Duffel (20 liters) that was specifically designed to meet those specs. I am able to carry the NFTD and a carry-on. Looking all over online, there are very, very few bags that actually meet the UAL specs.
It's odd, isn't it? Because so many bags can actually fit under the seat in front (including all of the bags I feature in this video). But the airlines tend to specify much smaller dimensions. Perhaps, to allow for leg room.
@@NoraDunn Leg room seems not to find itself at the top of the airlines' priority lists. One factor for UAL may be the number of aircraft they had with very intrusive legacy under-seat enclosures for the entertainment systems. Bags stuffed in, and not quite getting all the way under, does create a safety/egress problem. The Tom Bihn bag works well, and has the advantage the main bag and the end compartments all opening from the top.
I use the Tenba DNA 16 Slim Messenger Bag and my wife uses the Sherpani Sojourn Tote Pack 15L - BOTH are sized at the smallest International Personal Item Size of 15.75” x 11.8” x 5.5” (40 x 30 x 15cm) which makes picking a “personal Item Bag” a no-brainer since it meets the requirement of EVERY airline we fly.
Awesome! Do you have thoughts/feedback on either bag you'd like to share? It's a shame they're both so small in capacity, but like you say if they fit all requirements then at least there's never any doubt.
@@NoraDunn Well - I am a hobbiest photographer, so the Tenba is my camera bag - big enough for my essential camera gear, a laptop a tablet and everything I’d need in a flight. I rely on my carryon for all other essentials and it works fine. My wife always has extra space in her personal item, so if we pick up something extra, she has the ability to move it (pending it’s TSA compliant) and such. One very nice thing both bags have is easy access points, so even in crammed economy, we can access all the bag contents without even the need to bring the bag up from beneath the seat in front of us. The Tenba is a messenger bag, and that works for me and my wife’s bag is a backpack, which works for her. Tenba, btw, has a unique feature on their messenger bags - the flap has a zipper allowing you to access the whole bag without the need to open the main flap. I hope that offers some insight!
You're pretty. And, you're a Doll. Don't worry, I'm a MO! :)) This is wonderful- detailed and so helpful. I will be flying on British Airways, and neither THEY nor anyone else seems to know their dimensions for that personal items bag! Thanks!
@@christy9850I recently bought poles from SmartCrutch-USA. They’re not the cheapest but they’re sturdy and fairly lightweight-around 1.5 lbs for the pair.
Love the channel ND! I'm headed to Asia in a few months from the US. I will use your recommendations to select a good carry on. But I am curious is my older Osprey Nebula backpack could be used as my personal carry on, especially if it's mostly empty? It will just be for my electronics and inflight needs. I believe it's a 35 or 45l when fully loaded.
Good question! If you plan to use the Nebula as your personal item, you might have some challenges depending on how flexible it is to squish into a personal item sizer. If you use it as your carry on luggage, it should be fine.
@@NoraDunn Thank you for such a speedy reply. It's 6 years old and has very little structure and I've taken it all around the world on my back but used it as my carry on, I didn't realize there was a difference between carry on and personal carry. It can fold rather small. I'll be flying Korean Air for the first time.
Nora, thank you so much for your great information on all things travel. Perhaps you can help me with this. I am traveling to Italy in the fall and two of our flights are with “ Lufthansa German Airlines Operated by United Airlines”. On the departing flight from Dulles to Rome, it is a direct flight as noted above. On the way home, we have a flight from Milan to Newark, NJ on “Lufthansa operated by United Airlines” and a connecting flight to Dulles on United. Should I be planning for luggage sizes and restrictions related to United for all flights, or Must I also comply with Lufthansa regulations for two flights? I am thinking since all flights are on United I am only concerned with their regulations, but I need to confirm. You probably covered this at some point, and if so, I apologize. Thanks much!
No I haven't covered this kind of situation so thanks for asking! Personally I would check with both airlines to be sure. Because on the flight back from Milan, even though it's operated by United Airlines, the gate is going to be Lufthansa and you may be subject to Lufthansa's rules.
Hey Nora! I would love to see you do a video on options for both carry on and a personal item to use on Air Transat flights from Toronto (or Canada) to Europe. Super strict dimensions for both outside of most norms for other Airlines and it is stressing me out! I do not want to check a bag for my trip in September to Italy. 🙏
Hi Christine! I haven't flown Air Transat for many years, but there are a few airlines out there that have super strict guidelines. Two tips: 1) I don't know if you can pay for an "upgrade" to your luggage allowance or seat that in turn allows more/larger carry on bags, but that can be worthwhile. If you compare the cost of your airfare plus the upgrade, vs major airlines that include luggage in their prices, it should still be cheaper if not comparable. 2) There's no shame in checking a bag! If their dimensions are too strict and you can't upgrade, there's no point getting stressed out about it.
What I usually do is once in flight, pull out my personal item from under the seat in front of me and slide it under my legs and rest in front of my seat, thus I'm able to put my legs over it and under the seat in front of me. Then, when landing, I slide it back under the seat in front of me again. It kind of gets in the way of the people getting out if I have the aisle or middle seat, but then I just put in on my seat when letting them out to use the restroom, for example. I tell you though, even a 26L bag these days is tight in the seats unless you get a seat with extra leg room. I'm starting to go less and less with my personal item and now trying to go down to 22L or 21L. I just pack an extra couple t-shirts, swimsuit or shorts, couple underwear and socks, all my medicine and emergency drugs, 3-1-1 stuff, other toiletries, electronic batteries and cords and chargers, iPad or laptop, and full-sized noise cancelling headphones. It's a lot. Whatever I pack, I pack it full. That's why there's no wiggle room. The group I travel with all has a check on suitcase and either a carry on and a personal item, or just a personal item. I used to pack just carry on and personal item, but I found myself always waiting around for everyone to get their check on anyhow, so I figured why not use the extra packing space and join the crowd? I found that as long as I just had a personal item and no carry on, they never question it. I suppose it's because if anything, it could be a carry on if it were to be too big. Also, I found that if it has no wheels, they automatically consider it a personal item. I've seen more times where the wheeled pieces get flagged for measurement. A few other good companies I've used for personal item bags are Goruck (21L & 26L), Evergoods panel loaders and travel bags (22L to 26L), and Cotopaxi travel packs (28L). Goruck doesn't have a luggage passthrough, but you can buy a water bottle pocket. The others have luggage passthroughs and water bottle sleeves.
Thanks for sharing your experience! In recent months I have taken to checking my luggage - even though it's carry-on sized. I do it for ease of getting around the airport (especially luxurious if I have a layover), as well as not having to worry about overhead bin space, or having my luggage/personal item scrutinized and getting penalized at the gate. In so doing, I've also noticed that checked luggage tends to arrive to the conveyor belt pretty quickly (I remember having to wait for ages most of the time; hasn't happened yet).
No brand names off the top off my head, but if I were looking for a less expensive alternative, I would use the criteria and ideas from this video then visit a brand discount store to see what they have.
Hi Nora, I'm taking my first international trip to Bali, Indonesia and going on Delta via Korean Air and coming back via Virgin Australia and back to Delta. Delta of course takes pretty much any personal item size. My problem is that my personal item is either the Monos Metro Duffel OR the July Weekender. Both are under the "normal" personal item size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Do you think I will have a problem with the size of either of these bags with Korean Air or Virgin Australia? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Thank you so much!
It's a great question, and I will suggest you check the Korean Air and Virgin Australia websites to see what their personal item size limits are. I'd hate to misguide you.
How do you feel about Calpak? I got their Luka bag. It’s soft, roomy and (so far) fits under multiple different airlines seats. Have you had any experience with Calpak?
I’m going to be flying on Lufthansa and they want a personal item to be 4” thick. For many of the better bags, the padding and pockets equal over 4 inches. Most other airlines allow 10”. I’m taking an inexpensive backpack. One of the problems with many bags is that bulky items all fall to the bottom so that increases the thickness of the bags.
4" is pretty thin, indeed! If your personal item bag is soft-sided, even if the bulky items fall to the bottom, they can be re-distributed when the bag goes into a sizer.
The major issue with the Bento Bag is the need for 'wheels' for the long haul walks in the airports. There are small foldable trolleys available. Have any of you used these? Are they worth the effort? Thanks for any info you can share.
I don't use trolleys for my personal item bag, since I'm already wheeling my luggage. The Bento Bag does have a pass-thru strap so you can slide it over your luggage handle, but this pre-supposes you have the right kind of luggage to do this. If you're just bringing the Bento Bag and nothing else, a trolley could work.
Worked in aviation as a mechanic and aviation has been a hobby from my teens and retired. Viewed videos on the chanes in the newer aircraft and space under seat is decreasing greater so personal items will also. My personal item is a Biggs and Riley the Convertible Duffle Pack. Never an issue but use business class on EvaAir mostly some on Singapore Air but never ever on USA brand airlines. Most to Asian countries and I live in Cebu Philippines with my wife. 18 hour flight. We have travel in China no issues with this. I carry a tablet with Bluetooth keyboard and she has her laptop. Unless you use the laptop for work I would leave at home, heavy and large. Also many foreign airlines have a weight limit of 7kg/15 lbs and they check. In some European countries the liquids have been cut down in size. Understand some travelers had problems, think one was France but I will never go there again as I was sent for 6 months to work. They dispise north Americas and are arrogant jerks. Do not remember the others she named.
I got the $20 Peak Design Packable zippered Tote as my personal item bag. I put everything in there and shove it under the seat and it conforms to the under the seat space.
It would be great to find a personal item bag that rolls. I have a bad back to carrying a bag or backpack is not possible for me. Can you find a rolling bag that would be a personal item bag?
Anything that fits under the seat is usually considered a personal item, at least in my experience. There are several under seat rolling bags. I have one I found at Marshalls.
I recently did a lot of online searching for the “perfect personal item” for an upcoming trip. I did not want a rolling one, but it seemed like there are loads of personal item size rolling bags to choose from. Good luck with your purchase!
As Tony and Susan have noted here, you can definitely find a personal item sized bag with wheels. I don't have any specific suggestions for the moment, but I'll keep my eyes peeled. :-)
I spent days researching a rolling underseat bag for my wife. She used it on a 10 day Europe trip & really liked it. It was a: Travel Pro Maxlite® 5 Carry-On Rolling Underseat Bag
Have you tried any of the Moment travel wear backpacks? I have the 21 L and really want the 28L for the extra room. It is a little too big for the airline restrictions. I’m wondering if I could squish it down if I don’t overpack. Any thoughts?
I wouldn't trade my JanSport Big Campus Backpack in black for any of these. It weighs only 4 oz.; is 10x13x17 inches with a 26.5L capacity. And it's guaranteed for life! Still looks brand new after years of use. Unfortunately, I can't find it on Amazon tonight....
I've been on any number of puddle jumpers, not to mention the occasional bug smasher, and I've yet to have them say no to ANY baggage except for 2 90 lb dogs in extra large carriers. We had to charter a private yacht from St. T to St. C, for $1,000. My bags get on the plane. I'm not sure what the fuss is about. Buy a decent ticket and don't fly through Denver or Newark. (Dual ends of the luggage black hole.) It's budget airlines that put you through these contortions. I like the bento bag, but I keep remembering the little lunches in Japan. It makes me laugh.
@@NoraDunn it's amusing to see people react to the pilot holding open his window until he straightens up for take off. It's even funnier when he asks his passenger in the copilot seat to do the same. Still, how else would the rest of us have any air conditioning?
If I want to make sure my personal carry on is within regulations I can just add the (height, length, width) and compare that to the added height, width, length of the airline regulated size correct?
Thank you! If mine is a little larger, just don’t pack it full (bag is mushsble), right? Should that work for one of the major airlines if I’m traveling within the US? The bag used to pass in the “old days.” I can’t find a style I like enough to buy a new one.
Dear Nora, did you recommend somewhere insulated bottles (preferably with not very small opening, and steel preferable) - something where you could keep hot water for at least 2-3 hours, which does not take lot of space and - very important - does not leak? I was using thermos by Thermos (0.5 litres) with little cup/cover screwed at the top, was very happy with that and found that it started leaking at opening - no wonder, it served for a very long time. Very useful in a plane and even in a hotel as well (where you could just keep warm or cold water). Try to find something very similar. Thank you very much.
I strongly strongly recommend a Sigg ‘Hot and Cold’. If I make a coffee at the beginning of the working day it’s still a bit too hot to drink at the end of the working day (insert joke about my short working day here…) Since then I’ve also added a couple of beer bottle ‘stubby coolers’ around it, which work really well to add insulation. Really good top either to pour or sip from. Never leaked and my gear gets thrown around a lot.
Hi An - I don't tend to travel with an insulated bottle, because it takes up too much space. But @bob_the_bomb4508 Bob's recommendation below is excellent.
I have the ultralight THERMOS with no issues. I also have a Kojirushi ultralight hot/cold. I love them both and they take very little footprint in my water bottle holder on my personal bag. Well worth it.
Oh, people pull their bag up against the seat after takeoff so the space under the seat in front is available. I don’t know how comfortable this is but it’s an idea
Many Asian airlines are VERY strict about all baggage sizes, including personal, carry on and checked (I'm talking about you Singapore Airlines @singaporeair)
All of these bags are a bit heavy due to materials and organizational features. I prefer the Flowfold Downeast Weekender Bag made of strong but lightweight EcoPak fabric (weighs 14 oz.). It is 20L and is shaped like the Bento Bag (and also has no shoulder straps). I pack lighter items in it if I am traveling without a spinner carryon. It is compliant with most airlines at 13" H x 14.5" W x 6.5" D. Uses YKK Vision Tooth zippers and has a dual purpose pass through that can be closed to form a pocket when not used over a luggage handle. Looks spiffy too. Price competitive at USD$150. I got it on Black Friday sale for USD$97.
@@NoraDunn It's so versatile. I've returned 6 backpacks that are supposed to be amazing edc or travel bags. Aer, evergoods, bellroy, go ruck. I thought I was going to keep my evergoods until I got a surprise knack pack. I was like wtf is this and gave it a chance and it's so good 😎 It's like a Tom bihn synik but with better internal organization.
@@jcap8391 I'm with you! Knack Packs are awesome. I do prefer their Series 2 though. I compare them in this video: ruclips.net/video/z-6SJS4rkDE/видео.htmlsi=KpN1-WFblzTSKkyI
In the video on your personal items bag, I thought you were making a joke. I have never been on a plane that had enough room, on the floor under the seat, for a bag of that size. ALL the space is designed for petite people.
Wish that reviewers wouldn't show bags/luggage that doesn't adhere to size parameters. It's not the reviewer that will get caught at the airport and have trouble but the person who listened so someone who told them bad information about size of bags. Maybe then companies would start making them the size they should be.
"The size they should be"? As mentioned in the video, airlines have different size/weight requirements. Requirements also vary internationally. Every manufacturer lists the dimensions of their products online and on the tags. It's up to the consumer to check the dimensions when selecting luggage for a trip. Don't blame the reviewers.
I guess if a reviewer is too lazy or not diligent to check the see, they shouldn't be reviewing items. Other reviewers measure them and say if they are too big. @@MCNY7
I have several different sizes and brands of personal bags depending on what airline I’m flying. My favorite for Allegiant is my daughter’s Jansport backpack she used in middle school. My sister & I are getting ready to fly on Allegiant to visit our other sister. I’ve warned my sister about their personal bag size requirement. She’s asked me to show her the size of personal bag I’ve used so she can make sure she has one that will fit. I’m going to let her borrow my husband’s bag if necessary.
I think she is. She deleted a comment I posted about a travel backpack I used as a personal item bag that was 1/4 to 1/ 7 the price of her recommended bags. The backpack I recommended by Coowoz was less stylish, but well-built and exceptionally functional. However, they don’t get her the same commissions she would earn if someone bought a $200 or $300 bag through her links. Note: I did not post a link to the bag, only gave the name of the manufacturer, and the place I bought it, Amazon. I thought I’d be doing a service to those who might wish to spend a bit more of their travel budget on the experience, than the luggage (I.e. The savings compared to the bags Nora recommended could make the difference between street food and a Michelin star restaurant for dinner). Plus my recommendation was for a gender-neutral item that would be totally suitable for men, not just the chic ladies bags she featured.
@@WisGuy4 I have no recollection of your other comment, and I certainly would not have deleted a comment of yours if it makes a suggestion which would help other viewers like you. I am insulted that you think I might be so driven by dollars that I would delete helpful comments promoting other items. If you sift through the many thousands of comments on other videos on my channel, you'll see hundreds of comments suggesting alternative products and services, some of which I've then bought myself to test out so I can create helpful reviews.
There is no point in being selectively angry. So you don’t believe in buying fake bags, a purchase is a purchase, regardless of the intention. I personally think it's crazy to care too much about how people want to spend their money. I bought real coach, marc jacobs, and mcm. If it's more than 1500, I'll buy a replica niceshopx . Guess what else I have in the bank, I'm a homeowner and drive a Lexus. I saw someone on RUclips who had tons of luxury items, lived in their mom's house, and was broke
👉🏻 Here are the bags I demonstrate in this Personal Item Bags Showdown, in order:
Pacsafe Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Backpack - www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=pl&ti=7313&pw=253893&mi=19681&pt=3&pri=25&ctc=RUclips
Peak Design Everyday Totepack - peak-design.pxf.io/qnernq
Nomad Lane Bento Bag - bit.ly/42pSUIX (this link includes a special 10% discount!)
Knack Bags Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack® - knack-bags.pxf.io/q44nZy
Sorry N. - I know how it sounds but I prefer downloading $700 for bottle of Champagne not pink backpack 🎒. That easily coming into theft eyes (remember we talking not fashion show but eventually traveling to…Moscow where even camaraderie Lenin paid close attention to ha hat. /hope yo know a joke/
@@TLK677 Ha ha! To each their own
@@NoraDunn First Lady that not isn’t concerned sipping or pouring down Cristal or Krug. Your sentence should say - I prefer pink back pack or whatever brings attention as travel equipment plus(and here mandatory; glass of…
To help with the leg room for long-legged folks, we will move the bag after take off and put it behind our knees. It gives us some extra support under the knees and more foot room. Of course, we put it back for landing.
OMG great call about putting it behind your knees! I NEVER thought of that! Mind blown.
That's great for you, but anyone wanting to get up and past you has to deal with it. Just don't go to sleep.
@@Pluscelamemechose Oh yes that's a good point. Perhaps a strategy best reserved for those in window seats
@NoraDunn I've had to traverse the armrests to get past people. Other people laughing usually wakes them up.
@@Pluscelamemechose I just pick it up as I stand up and put it on the seat. I usually take those as time for a stretch break. With as crammed in as planes are these days, no one is getting past without me moving anyway.
Nora… I’m focused on backpack weight… (Knack is over two pounds!) I found HERSHEL! Wow! It is SO LIGHT! A HUGE AMOUNT OF SPACE in a small backpack! 24 L! No special compartments to make it heavier! I can place my own lightweight pouches inside! I added a trolley sleeve myself with FABRICTAC! (Glues fabric like sewing!) Biggest plus is how comfortable it is. The padded shoulder straps are awesome! MUCH more comfy than PacSafe! EASY to make it pickpocket proof by putting the zipper pull through both zippers. I even tore apart an old bag and used FABRICTAC to put the lightweight zippered pouch inside the Hershel. I don’t need “slash proof” material. And the price is right! HERSHEL IS GREAT! I’ll be hopping on and off trains a lot. 24 L! You have to try it.
Thanks for the tip! Love it.
Thanks, you are so polished and informative.
Thank YOU, Marianne! Your support is greatly appreciated!! 😊
I’m 81, I bought a wheeled personal bag since I can’t carry a backpack anymore. It fits under the seat. I’m so happy with it.
Nice one, Kathleen!
I'm with you! There are some great backpacks for undersea, but my shoulder can't take it...I'm all about wheels!
Would you please share brand and style? A link would be helpful if available. I too can no longer do backpacks die to shoulder issues. TIA
My bag is from Walmart. Protege Arendale soft side 16” under-seat luggage. I got the purple but it’s out of stock, only black is available.
@@lindacormack365 I bought a London Fog underseater, with a sturdy handle and only 2 wheels. I used it and my purse (which could fit inside it to go on Ryanair), and it held my needs for 3 1/2 weeks from the Costa del sol to Sweden in April, so chilly and hot weather. I also broke my wrist on my second day, and with this bag, still managed just great for the rest of my trip despite the cast on my left arm. I did sew extra pockets into my light wool jacket, to hold all the stuff I really needed on me.
I must say, that this is a very important topic that Nora selected (as always). Seems that it does not matter - what personal bag you could use (especially for not very experienced traveller) - but I understand that importance.
First - should be comfortable and not very heavy, but steady. You take all necessary items there and this personal bag stays in front of you, you might get into that bag at least several times during the flight (getting pen, some food, drink perhaps, some warmer clothing, book, phone etc. Your electronics should be protected there.
Second - it would be great if this bag can serve as additional support for your legs, during the long flight you will see the difference.
And - finally - the bag should be comfortably located above your carry-on (if you fly with carry-on) as you will have long walks in airport.
Great tips, An - thank you! I'll be doing another video in the new year about packing a personal item bag for flight comfort, and these kinds of tips are invaluable. Thank you!
I like my Osprey Ozone Boarding Bag, it's 20L and fits nicely under the seat. I use it in conjunction with my Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack which is 45L so all together I get 65L of capacity and for my typical 20-30 day trips this is a great setup. I wear a Patagonia Atom Sling Pack like a fanny pack which is usually empty while getting on to the plane and then use that as my daily bag but also have a Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack in my Carry-on for when I go hiking and need more storage for gear.
I’ve got an Osprey 20 litre personal item bag too. Very happy for it for short trips.
For longer work trips I use a larger 5.11 RUSH 72 rucksack so I use a smaller chest pouch/sling as my personal item.
What a great setup! Thanks for sharing!
I use a Rubalino diaper bag backpack. Lots of nice organizational pockets, two exterior water bottle holders, lightweight, and is the right size for personal item on most airlines. Also not expensive. Comes in many colors. I’m a senior citizen so this is its only purpose for me.
Wow - very clever!
@@NoraDunn and costs less than $50
OT: have you ever flown Tap Air Portugal? Their prices intrigue me.
@@SusanFrevert I have flown TAP Air Portugal, and they're decent!
I adore my Fjallraven kanken. I have the 15" inch laptop one. Super simple, comfortable, and the position of the locks makes it easy to use an s clip or small lock to keep it secure. I know there's lots of fancier, more organized bags out there but personally I enjoy the freedom of one big bucket and a few extra pockets.
Nice! I'm testing out yet another personal item bag on my upcoming trip, and like yours, it has way fewer pockets etc than I'm accustomed to. I'll be interested to see how much I like (or don't like) it.
I look forward to your upcoming review. I’ll be taking a long flight in May, and can use some tips on strategic packing of the personal item.
@@susanwillis6125 Awesome! Stay tuned ;-)
What I dislike about the kanken is that you either have very short or very long straps. Have you found a solution for that?
@@claudiakarl2702 That's odd that the straps aren't adjustable!
My last Euro trip I brought a firm soft sided cooler (think Yeti knock-off) as my personal item as I was mainly camping. It also worked great as a footstool during the long flight. I don't need that much stuff during a flight... I am going to try one of those neck pillow sacks for this year's trip
Ooh - interesting!
I recently acquired the Pacsafe bag and just returned from taking it on a 10 day trip to Europe. I totally agree with your frustration over the top zipper!!! The bag does conform to airline regs(Air Canada in this case) and fit easily under the seat even on a small connector plane. I didn’t take a laptop with me, but the laptop sleeve was tight for my iPad I appreciated the luggage sleeve so I could carry it on my rolling bag and also used the backpack straps when I needed to grab and go quickly. I do regret buying this bag as it will be small for my longer trips planned foe the future.
Sorry you were disappointed by the Pacsafe bag! If one doesn't have a laptop and too much tech stuff, I think it's a great size, but for longer trips (and/or, lots of tech)....
Thank you! I’m a bag junkie . BTW haircut looks fab
Marie
Thanks Marie! Glad I'm not alone in my love of bags LOL
Dear Nora, thanks for the video. You always prepares useful videos, and there is a lot of work behind your advice. Thank you.
Thank you so much! Indeed - it's a TON of work, so I'm thrilled when you find it useful.
Thank you for taking time to do the comparison. the quality of the channel *hotdups* is better, I bought it here, and you can ask them to take a photo for confirmation before shipping.
this past christmas, i went through 4 airports and i wandered a lot. I actually heard more than a few gates cracking down on all the carry-on abusers. 2 gates plus one of my own absolutely enforced the 1+1 carryon and told people that they will not board with more than 2. One gate even announced that removing big jackets also counted as a carryon if they didn't keep it with them in the seat. Amazing to see, and it's about time..
Thanks for the intel!
I bought a smaller carry on and a smaller personal item for this exact reason a few years ago. The rule abuse is fine when it’s small and easy to ignore but people have gotten so bold with it that you have to be within the exact restrictions to fly
On my last trip (to spend time with family in Ohio) I used my United By Blue (R) Evolution 27 L Mini Duffle. It fit pretty well on the handle of my carry-on but was awkward inside the plane. I had also purchased an Osprey Transporter bag but ended up using it as my work bag because it's waterproof, though I may still use it next trip. Like you, I don't really like shoulder straps (due to chronic neck and shoulder pain), so I'll probably try my Cotopaxi Luzon Eighteen backpack next. It's a simple, lightweight bag but has the chest strap so will be secure.
Nice. Thanks for sharing, Betsy!
Thank you so much for sharing! We LOVE having you in the Nomad Lane family.
Thanks for making such a slick bag! :-)
I purchased Pacsafe Cityysafe CX for European cruise and trio, and it was perfect!! Thank you for your review.
Awesome! Thanks Justyn! Glad you like it. :-)
kislux I love you so much and watching your videos makes my day brighter
I finally bought you a cup of ☕️ Nora. Thank you for your videos.
My fear is having to check my hard shell carry on because of potential lack overhead bin storage. Seems I always get on last and peoples coats and bags are stuffed into the overheads. I had to check my carry on in a flight and I’ve only flown maybe 5 times. I was so 😡 because my whole plan was to not have checked luggage. So I wonder if it will be better to take a duffel along with my backpack so as to make stuffing easier. You think??
Yeah, gate-checking carry-on luggage can happen. Sorry it happened to you! The good news is, often (but not always) when you gate-check a bag, you don't have to wait around for it at the luggage carousel; they store it in a separate hold and make it available at the gate.
Not sure what you mean about taking a duffel; do you mean using a duffel instead of a hard-shell so it stuffs into the overhead bin easier?
If yes, then YES - that is a viable strategy. It's one of the reasons I like softshell luggage overall for carry-on: ruclips.net/video/wj_aNrF651s/видео.htmlsi=ur_HIozO_p5-L0EQ
Thanks for the coffee! 🙏
Hi Nora - thanks for your videos. I am just flying from Sydney to Do dohar in Qatar. Because I am anxious about transiting from this flight to my flight to Tanzania, ( same day- and gates do change) I have booked a service person to meet me in Qatar and make sure I get to the correct departure gate on time. The service I am using is Al Maha service, gold transit. Other travellers may also find this transit service reassuring. :)
This is great info, Linda - thank you! Good to know services like these exist.
I started with a backpack but I need to use a personal roller bag. If they take my carry on my back can't handle big bulky bags. I think most the smaller roller personal bags are all the same, but I would love to see a video on those I'd love it.
My challenge with personal roller bags are twofold:
1) Rolling that plus my rolling luggage would be awkward (though I guess with a pass-thru strap I could roll both as one)
2) I worry about the weight and space that the wheels would take up; I need to maximize personal item bag space for my tech stuff.
But.....that's just me! I'll look into it and see what I can drum up. Do you have a bag you like?
@@NoraDunn I do. It's a Delsey. I would like the inside configured better I guess. I took it and my carry on suitcase to Europe this year. It was great because of course at the last minute they said I had to check my luggage. So for me this was a life saver. It also did fit on top of my other roller so all was good. Thanks.
@@ChristineF55 Nice! Thanks for sharing Christine.
Great review! I just purchased the Pacsafe® GO anti-theft 34L carryon backpack. It's a clamshell, so it unzips like a suitcase, which is what I was looking for. It meets American Airlines personal item dimensions exactly, and can be compressed to probably fit others, Volume : 34 litres Height : 18.5 inch x Width : 12.6 inch x Depth : 7.9 inch. Weight : 1.64 lbs. I often stay 3 weeks to a month in one place (usually Paris) so I wanted to take a "few more clothes" for weather changes and this drove my criteria. Here's what I can fit inside, without overstuffing it. 2 pairs jeans, 3 short sleeve tees, 1 cardigan, 5 undies, 2 bras, 1 set long pajamas, 1 pair sneakers. In the outside pocket -- iPad, electronic cables, iPhone 15 Pro, Anker power strip, Toiletries ziplock, medicines. I'll try it on my next trip this fall, in addition to my usual Samsonite Black Label (now called Cosmolite) spinner that weighs only 3.8 lbs.
AWESOME! Thanks for sharing :-)
@@NoraDunn I'm 70 and have been traveling solo since my husband died ten years ago. Lightweight is very important to me. My usual rental has 64 old, spiral steps up! I'm so glad you showed the Bento bag. I considered it, but thought about that unbalanced shoulder weight, too. I wished I'd tried the Knack you mention before deciding on the PacSafe. It looks like a great option, too. My most recent trip, I used a shoulder bag personal item and it worked okay. My total combined weight of my two bags was 25 lbs, which I consider my limit for safety and balance. I've had my spinner since 2018, and I can't believe how heavy many of the new spinners are! My older Tumi is 7.8lbs and I just don't carry it anymore. BTW, I've packed that 2014 Tumi Voyager, then packed my Samsonite. All the same clothes fit it, but the hard side doesn't have the pockets. Anyway, I enjoy your videos and tips.
@@ffcwatercolors5552 Awesome - thanks for sharing, and happy travels! I think you still did well with Pacsafe.
Thank you so much for thus video omg, it was so helpful
Yay! I'm so glad.
My personal item is a TravelPro wheelie bag. I’m old, it holds my pills and a change of clothes and my tech stuff, and I can roll it rather than wear it. I wear a waist pack to put my ear buds and immediate use pills in and hang it on the tray table. It all works fine
Great strategy!
What tech gear do you bring to make your videos??
No water bottle holder is a deal breaker for me.
Great video, Nora, thank you! Yours is one of my favorite channels!
Thanks Mia!
For tech gear, I have:
Lighting - Lume Cube
Filming - iPhone (though I did just get a GoPro Mini which I'll use for action shots and setting up a second camera for some gear videos
Microphone: Rode Wireless
And then various telescoping tripods and adaptors and such for setting everything up in any scenario.
I love your presentations. Where can I get the Pacsafe soft wheeled carryon?
Sadly, they discontinued it. But they have a pretty fantastic lineup of other kinds of bags/backpacks/slings/wallets/etc.
Nora, I love my outbound Marino men’s t in XL. I decided to wear on the long flight to Israel. TMI: I sweat a lot going through TSA, from nervousness or fear. It went unnoticed in this shirt . 😅
Ha ha - that's awesome!
It’s funny how on my recent flight on ANA, I was so over the top worried about the weight of my carry on and personal bag not exceed 10kg combined. I was ready to stuff my jacket pockets full of stuff. In the end they didn’t even bother checking!
I think I’ve only had my bags weighed/checked three times over 20+ on regular flights. I still feel anxious EVERY TIME I board a flight.
Ha! That anxious feeling is common. I don't tend to fully relax until I've arrived, cleared customs, gotten my bags (if checking), and found my accommodation. ha!
Excellent video 👍
Thank you very much!
Can you imagine in medieval Europe, kings courier needs all packing into such small bag. Plus horse food and armor (not always, sometimes they travelled light) .
Ha! There's some perspective.
I have trekked in Europe with my horse, 30 pounds maximum including tent and stuff for the horse. Totally doable. Of course you do become a bit of a stinky vagrant, but in my experience at that point a place where we could rent a room at a riding establishment or a camping ground with washing facilities where we could do our laundry would turn up. We packed very little food and stopped at village stores to get groceries.
Very helpful info🇨🇦❤️❤️❤️👍👍🥰
Glad it was helpful!
@NoraDunn Thank you Nora and keep up the nice work 🇨🇦❤️❤️❤️👍👍🥰
@@1mazforall You're welcome....and thank YOU!
That purple bag looks massive. I bought an esmart backpack that’s 40l expanded and it looks tiny compared to the purple bag
I know, it looks so large! But it's one of the more compliant bags LOL. It could also be the camera angle....
I use a 40 liter backpack / duffel bag version. Plus a hard-shell carry on
Is the 40L is your personal item bag? Seems large.
This is good info - I would prefer a backpack style and limit it to 15 liters in size since I'm 5-11 and have clunky feet which need some space for comfort (especially on long haul flights). With a backpack, you can keep your hands free to deal with your carry on suitcase, when at the check-in counter, navigating crowded areas, etc. Also, the smaller the bag, the more likely the air carrier will allow it onboard. On a recent trip to the Philippines, EVA Air was really cracking down on baggage weight. They specify 7 kilos (15.43 pounds) as the limit for carry-on suitcases, my weighed just shy of 8 kilos (~17 pounds) and I had to check it in. That made for a fun experience at baggage claim in Manila 🤣
Wow - crazy that they wouldn't let you go with the additional 1.6 pounds! Sheesh. ;-)
The agents in Manila are really strict…by too much…at least for Asiana as I found.
United Air Lines: 17" x 9" x 10" -- perhaps the most stingy personal item bag (under the seat) in the U.S. One of the few that meets this requirement is the Tom Bihn Night Flight Travel Duffel (20 liters) that was specifically designed to meet those specs. I am able to carry the NFTD and a carry-on. Looking all over online, there are very, very few bags that actually meet the UAL specs.
It's odd, isn't it? Because so many bags can actually fit under the seat in front (including all of the bags I feature in this video). But the airlines tend to specify much smaller dimensions. Perhaps, to allow for leg room.
@@NoraDunn Leg room seems not to find itself at the top of the airlines' priority lists. One factor for UAL may be the number of aircraft they had with very intrusive legacy under-seat enclosures for the entertainment systems. Bags stuffed in, and not quite getting all the way under, does create a safety/egress problem. The Tom Bihn bag works well, and has the advantage the main bag and the end compartments all opening from the top.
@@Gallery90 Ah yes - good point!
I use the Tenba DNA 16 Slim Messenger Bag and my wife uses the Sherpani Sojourn Tote Pack 15L - BOTH are sized at the smallest International Personal Item Size of 15.75” x 11.8” x 5.5” (40 x 30 x 15cm) which makes picking a “personal Item Bag” a no-brainer since it meets the requirement of EVERY airline we fly.
Awesome! Do you have thoughts/feedback on either bag you'd like to share? It's a shame they're both so small in capacity, but like you say if they fit all requirements then at least there's never any doubt.
@@NoraDunn Well - I am a hobbiest photographer, so the Tenba is my camera bag - big enough for my essential camera gear, a laptop a tablet and everything I’d need in a flight. I rely on my carryon for all other essentials and it works fine. My wife always has extra space in her personal item, so if we pick up something extra, she has the ability to move it (pending it’s TSA compliant) and such. One very nice thing both bags have is easy access points, so even in crammed economy, we can access all the bag contents without even the need to bring the bag up from beneath the seat in front of us. The Tenba is a messenger bag, and that works for me and my wife’s bag is a backpack, which works for her. Tenba, btw, has a unique feature on their messenger bags - the flap has a zipper allowing you to access the whole bag without the need to open the main flap. I hope that offers some insight!
@@Vromiaris778 Thank you! Very clever with the easy access features.
You're pretty. And, you're a Doll. Don't worry, I'm a MO! :)) This is wonderful- detailed and so helpful. I will be flying on British Airways, and neither THEY nor anyone else seems to know their dimensions for that personal items bag! Thanks!
Thanks! I believe BA has it on their site, but it's buried and difficult to find.
@@NoraDunn I found it! Thanks, dear lady!
Can you recommend good, but lightweight and compact hiking poles? Thank you!
Great question! Sadly I don't know of any, since I don't travel with them.
@@NoraDunn Thank you for responding!
@@christy9850I recently bought poles from SmartCrutch-USA. They’re not the cheapest but they’re sturdy and fairly lightweight-around 1.5 lbs for the pair.
Love the channel ND! I'm headed to Asia in a few months from the US. I will use your recommendations to select a good carry on. But I am curious is my older Osprey Nebula backpack could be used as my personal carry on, especially if it's mostly empty? It will just be for my electronics and inflight needs. I believe it's a 35 or 45l when fully loaded.
Good question! If you plan to use the Nebula as your personal item, you might have some challenges depending on how flexible it is to squish into a personal item sizer.
If you use it as your carry on luggage, it should be fine.
@@NoraDunn Thank you for such a speedy reply. It's 6 years old and has very little structure and I've taken it all around the world on my back but used it as my carry on, I didn't realize there was a difference between carry on and personal carry. It can fold rather small. I'll be flying Korean Air for the first time.
@@MikeMcIntyreintechrity Happy travels!
You've convinced me to mail my heavier clothes. I have a puppy as a personal item.
You should compare underseat puppy carriers.
Great suggestion! Thanks :-)
Nora, thank you so much for your great information on all things travel. Perhaps you can help me with this. I am traveling to Italy in the fall and two of our flights are with “ Lufthansa German Airlines Operated by United Airlines”. On the departing flight from Dulles to Rome, it is a direct flight as noted above. On the way home, we have a flight from Milan to Newark, NJ on “Lufthansa operated by United Airlines” and a connecting flight to Dulles on United. Should I be planning for luggage sizes and restrictions related to United for all flights, or Must I also comply with Lufthansa regulations for two flights? I am thinking since all flights are on United I am only concerned with their regulations, but I need to confirm. You probably covered this at some point, and if so, I apologize. Thanks much!
No I haven't covered this kind of situation so thanks for asking! Personally I would check with both airlines to be sure. Because on the flight back from Milan, even though it's operated by United Airlines, the gate is going to be Lufthansa and you may be subject to Lufthansa's rules.
Thankyou!
Hey Nora! I would love to see you do a video on options for both carry on and a personal item to use on Air Transat flights from Toronto (or Canada) to Europe. Super strict dimensions for both outside of most norms for other Airlines and it is stressing me out! I do not want to check a bag for my trip in September to Italy. 🙏
Hi Christine!
I haven't flown Air Transat for many years, but there are a few airlines out there that have super strict guidelines.
Two tips:
1) I don't know if you can pay for an "upgrade" to your luggage allowance or seat that in turn allows more/larger carry on bags, but that can be worthwhile. If you compare the cost of your airfare plus the upgrade, vs major airlines that include luggage in their prices, it should still be cheaper if not comparable.
2) There's no shame in checking a bag! If their dimensions are too strict and you can't upgrade, there's no point getting stressed out about it.
What I usually do is once in flight, pull out my personal item from under the seat in front of me and slide it under my legs and rest in front of my seat, thus I'm able to put my legs over it and under the seat in front of me. Then, when landing, I slide it back under the seat in front of me again. It kind of gets in the way of the people getting out if I have the aisle or middle seat, but then I just put in on my seat when letting them out to use the restroom, for example.
I tell you though, even a 26L bag these days is tight in the seats unless you get a seat with extra leg room. I'm starting to go less and less with my personal item and now trying to go down to 22L or 21L. I just pack an extra couple t-shirts, swimsuit or shorts, couple underwear and socks, all my medicine and emergency drugs, 3-1-1 stuff, other toiletries, electronic batteries and cords and chargers, iPad or laptop, and full-sized noise cancelling headphones. It's a lot. Whatever I pack, I pack it full. That's why there's no wiggle room.
The group I travel with all has a check on suitcase and either a carry on and a personal item, or just a personal item. I used to pack just carry on and personal item, but I found myself always waiting around for everyone to get their check on anyhow, so I figured why not use the extra packing space and join the crowd? I found that as long as I just had a personal item and no carry on, they never question it. I suppose it's because if anything, it could be a carry on if it were to be too big. Also, I found that if it has no wheels, they automatically consider it a personal item. I've seen more times where the wheeled pieces get flagged for measurement.
A few other good companies I've used for personal item bags are Goruck (21L & 26L), Evergoods panel loaders and travel bags (22L to 26L), and Cotopaxi travel packs (28L). Goruck doesn't have a luggage passthrough, but you can buy a water bottle pocket. The others have luggage passthroughs and water bottle sleeves.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
In recent months I have taken to checking my luggage - even though it's carry-on sized. I do it for ease of getting around the airport (especially luxurious if I have a layover), as well as not having to worry about overhead bin space, or having my luggage/personal item scrutinized and getting penalized at the gate.
In so doing, I've also noticed that checked luggage tends to arrive to the conveyor belt pretty quickly (I remember having to wait for ages most of the time; hasn't happened yet).
Thanks for the video. These are all great options, but pretty expensive. Do you have any affordable options you can recommend (ie. less than $100)?
No brand names off the top off my head, but if I were looking for a less expensive alternative, I would use the criteria and ideas from this video then visit a brand discount store to see what they have.
What is best carry on for a teach bag??
I did not see that video
Thanks
James C
I'm not sure what you mean by "teach bag"...
Hi Nora, I'm taking my first international trip to Bali, Indonesia and going on Delta via Korean Air and coming back via Virgin Australia and back to Delta. Delta of course takes pretty much any personal item size. My problem is that my personal item is either the Monos Metro Duffel OR the July Weekender. Both are under the "normal" personal item size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Do you think I will have a problem with the size of either of these bags with Korean Air or Virgin Australia? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Thank you so much!
It's a great question, and I will suggest you check the Korean Air and Virgin Australia websites to see what their personal item size limits are. I'd hate to misguide you.
How do you feel about Calpak? I got their Luka bag. It’s soft, roomy and (so far) fits under multiple different airlines seats. Have you had any experience with Calpak?
I don't have any experience with Calpak! I'll check them out though - thanks for the suggestion!
Beis mini weekender ❤
I’m going to be flying on Lufthansa and they want a personal item to be 4” thick. For many of the better bags, the padding and pockets equal over 4 inches. Most other airlines allow 10”. I’m taking an inexpensive backpack. One of the problems with many bags is that bulky items all fall to the bottom so that increases the thickness of the bags.
4" is pretty thin, indeed! If your personal item bag is soft-sided, even if the bulky items fall to the bottom, they can be re-distributed when the bag goes into a sizer.
@@NoraDunn thanks. I’ve been watching too many RUclips videos and I’m paranoid they won’t let me redistribute. 🫣
@@iknownothing-49 Don't worry! You'll be fine :-)
@@NoraDunn thanks. I am a worry wart
The major issue with the Bento Bag is the need for 'wheels' for the long haul walks in the airports. There are small foldable trolleys available. Have any of you used these? Are they worth the effort? Thanks for any info you can share.
I don't use trolleys for my personal item bag, since I'm already wheeling my luggage. The Bento Bag does have a pass-thru strap so you can slide it over your luggage handle, but this pre-supposes you have the right kind of luggage to do this. If you're just bringing the Bento Bag and nothing else, a trolley could work.
Worked in aviation as a mechanic and aviation has been a hobby from my teens and retired. Viewed videos on the chanes in the newer aircraft and space under seat is decreasing greater so personal items will also. My personal item is a Biggs and Riley the Convertible Duffle Pack. Never an issue but use business class on EvaAir mostly some on Singapore Air but never ever on USA brand airlines. Most to Asian countries and I live in Cebu Philippines with my wife. 18 hour flight. We have travel in China no issues with this. I carry a tablet with Bluetooth keyboard and she has her laptop. Unless you use the laptop for work I would leave at home, heavy and large. Also many foreign airlines have a weight limit of 7kg/15 lbs and they check. In some European countries the liquids have been cut down in size. Understand some travelers had problems, think one was France but I will never go there again as I was sent for 6 months to work. They dispise north Americas and are arrogant jerks. Do not remember the others she named.
Thanks for sharing all this info!
I got the $20 Peak Design Packable zippered Tote as my personal item bag. I put everything in there and shove it under the seat and it conforms to the under the seat space.
Nice!
It would be great to find a personal item bag that rolls. I have a bad back to carrying a bag or backpack is not possible for me. Can you find a rolling bag that would be a personal item bag?
Anything that fits under the seat is usually considered a personal item, at least in my experience. There are several under seat rolling bags. I have one I found at Marshalls.
I recently did a lot of online searching for the “perfect personal item” for an upcoming trip. I did not want a rolling one, but it seemed like there are loads of personal item size rolling bags to choose from. Good luck with your purchase!
As Tony and Susan have noted here, you can definitely find a personal item sized bag with wheels. I don't have any specific suggestions for the moment, but I'll keep my eyes peeled. :-)
I spent days researching a rolling underseat bag for my wife. She used it on a 10 day Europe trip & really liked it. It was a: Travel Pro Maxlite® 5 Carry-On Rolling Underseat Bag
@@kevinferrasciomalley3276 Thank you! I'll check it out.
Have you tried any of the Moment travel wear backpacks? I have the 21 L and really want the 28L for the extra room. It is a little too big for the airline restrictions. I’m wondering if I could squish it down if I don’t overpack. Any thoughts?
I haven't tried them! I'll have a look. If it's softsided and not full, I figure it could squish.
Hi, is there four inches of depth on one side of the Bento bag to put a mirrorless sony camera?
That was a silly question, sorry. It clearly does not. Besides, the bag will get so heavy, I will die if I don't go the backpack route. Thank you.
Good call on needing backpack straps if you plan on carrying heavy stuff!
Have you tried any of the Tom Bihn bags yet?
I have not! What do you like about them?
I wouldn't trade my JanSport Big Campus Backpack in black for any of these. It weighs only 4 oz.; is 10x13x17 inches with a 26.5L capacity. And it's guaranteed for life! Still looks brand new after years of use. Unfortunately, I can't find it on Amazon tonight....
That sounds fantastic! What kind of organizational features does it have?
I've been on any number of puddle jumpers, not to mention the occasional bug smasher, and I've yet to have them say no to ANY baggage except for 2 90 lb dogs in extra large carriers.
We had to charter a private yacht from St. T to St. C, for $1,000.
My bags get on the plane. I'm not sure what the fuss is about. Buy a decent ticket and don't fly through Denver or Newark. (Dual ends of the luggage black hole.)
It's budget airlines that put you through these contortions.
I like the bento bag, but I keep remembering the little lunches in Japan. It makes me laugh.
"Bug smasher" - ha ha!
"dual ends of the luggage black hole" - another giggle!
"bento boxes" - gfaw!
Thanks for making me smile. Love your comment.
@@NoraDunn it's amusing to see people react to the pilot holding open his window until he straightens up for take off.
It's even funnier when he asks his passenger in the copilot seat to do the same.
Still, how else would the rest of us have any air conditioning?
@@Pluscelamemechose Ha ha! Exactly! I've been on those planes.
If I want to make sure my personal carry on is within regulations I can just add the (height, length, width) and compare that to the added height, width, length of the airline regulated size correct?
You got it!
Thank you! If mine is a little larger, just don’t pack it full (bag is mushsble), right? Should that work for one of the major airlines if I’m traveling within the US? The bag used to pass in the “old days.” I can’t find a style I like enough to buy a new one.
@@jow.2450 Yep, US domestic travel + a mushable bag should do you just fine! :-)
Dear Nora, did you recommend somewhere insulated bottles (preferably with not very small opening, and steel preferable) - something where you could keep hot water for at least 2-3 hours, which does not take lot of space and - very important - does not leak?
I was using thermos by Thermos (0.5 litres) with little cup/cover screwed at the top, was very happy with that and found that it started leaking at opening - no wonder, it served for a very long time. Very useful in a plane and even in a hotel as well (where you could just keep warm or cold water). Try to find something very similar. Thank you very much.
I strongly strongly recommend a Sigg ‘Hot and Cold’. If I make a coffee at the beginning of the working day it’s still a bit too hot to drink at the end of the working day (insert joke about my short working day here…)
Since then I’ve also added a couple of beer bottle ‘stubby coolers’ around it, which work really well to add insulation.
Really good top either to pour or sip from. Never leaked and my gear gets thrown around a lot.
Very helpful, thank you
Hi An - I don't tend to travel with an insulated bottle, because it takes up too much space. But @bob_the_bomb4508 Bob's recommendation below is excellent.
I have the ultralight THERMOS with no issues. I also have a Kojirushi ultralight hot/cold. I love them both and they take very little footprint in my water bottle holder on my personal bag. Well worth it.
@@696969bold Thanks for sharing!
I love my Bento Bag, but it’s too large to be a personal item on European airlines.
Good to know.
Oh, people pull their bag up against the seat after takeoff so the space under the seat in front is available. I don’t know how comfortable this is but it’s an idea
Totally! I have done this. Helps if it's a window seat; the bag can lean against the wall of the aircraft, and there's room beside for your feet.
"North American airlines tend to be the most lenient", except for Canada. Particularly Sunwing.
True. Budget/charter airlines are the exception to all rules - ha ha!
Actually Air Canada is probably among the world’s best.
@@arlencarlson for Canada maybe. It's personal item limits aren't any better that some of the budget US carriers
@@RetroDiver They have no weight restriction for personal. And don’t tend to size the personal items either.
Many Asian airlines are VERY strict about all baggage sizes, including personal, carry on and checked (I'm talking about you Singapore Airlines @singaporeair)
Ha ha! Thanks for the intel.
All of these bags are a bit heavy due to materials and organizational features. I prefer the Flowfold Downeast Weekender Bag made of strong but lightweight EcoPak fabric (weighs 14 oz.). It is 20L and is shaped like the Bento Bag (and also has no shoulder straps). I pack lighter items in it if I am traveling without a spinner carryon. It is compliant with most airlines at 13" H x 14.5" W x 6.5" D. Uses YKK Vision Tooth zippers and has a dual purpose pass through that can be closed to form a pocket when not used over a luggage handle. Looks spiffy too. Price competitive at USD$150. I got it on Black Friday sale for USD$97.
Fantastic suggestion! Thanks for sharing :-)
???? Can you find a bag that meets Iceland Air’s personal item restrictions? Good luck!
What are their personal item restrictions?
Knack pack series 1 destroys all of these as an edc.
Interesting! Why do you think so?
@@NoraDunn It's so versatile. I've returned 6 backpacks that are supposed to be amazing edc or travel bags. Aer, evergoods, bellroy, go ruck. I thought I was going to keep my evergoods until I got a surprise knack pack. I was like wtf is this and gave it a chance and it's so good 😎 It's like a Tom bihn synik but with better internal organization.
@@jcap8391 I'm with you! Knack Packs are awesome. I do prefer their Series 2 though. I compare them in this video: ruclips.net/video/z-6SJS4rkDE/видео.htmlsi=KpN1-WFblzTSKkyI
What bag would Santa use? That's what we want to know.
😂 That IS the question ;-)
@@NoraDunn what are his under seat requirements?
@@Pluscelamemechose ...and that is the NEXT question! ;-)
@@NoraDunn I'd say his seat is extra 1st class.
@@Pluscelamemechose 😆
I am short, and I use my personal item for my legs…
Very smart!
Nora: based on your luggage collection I always feel like we were separated at birth… :)
🤣
Asian airlines are more strict on weight.
Yes, as well as Australian airlines.
My Pacsafe Venturesafe 25 liter is my main bag for most trips. My personal item is a Pacsafe fanny pack. Go lighter!
Wow - 25 liters as a main bag? You go ULTRAlight!
In the video on your personal items bag, I thought you were making a joke. I have never been on a plane that had enough room, on the floor under the seat, for a bag of that size. ALL the space is designed for petite people.
It's a squeeze to be sure! Ha.
Those look like checked full size bags.
Ha ha! Must be the camera angle.
Wish that reviewers wouldn't show bags/luggage that doesn't adhere to size parameters. It's not the reviewer that will get caught at the airport and have trouble but the person who listened so someone who told them bad information about size of bags. Maybe then companies would start making them the size they should be.
"The size they should be"? As mentioned in the video, airlines have different size/weight requirements. Requirements also vary internationally. Every manufacturer lists the dimensions of their products online and on the tags. It's up to the consumer to check the dimensions when selecting luggage for a trip. Don't blame the reviewers.
Thanks for your support, @MCNY7 :-)
I guess if a reviewer is too lazy or not diligent to check the see, they shouldn't be reviewing items. Other reviewers measure them and say if they are too big. @@MCNY7
I have several different sizes and brands of personal bags depending on what airline I’m flying. My favorite for Allegiant is my daughter’s Jansport backpack she used in middle school. My sister & I are getting ready to fly on Allegiant to visit our other sister. I’ve warned my sister about their personal bag size requirement. She’s asked me to show her the size of personal bag I’ve used so she can make sure she has one that will fit. I’m going to let her borrow my husband’s bag if necessary.
@@Csquared1685 Nice! Thanks for sharing.
Are you afraid of the competition, Nora?
Thanks for the recommendation - I'll have to check it out!
I think she is. She deleted a comment I posted about a travel backpack I used as a personal item bag that was 1/4 to 1/ 7 the price of her recommended bags. The backpack I recommended by Coowoz was less stylish, but well-built and exceptionally functional. However, they don’t get her the same commissions she would earn if someone bought a $200 or $300 bag through her links.
Note: I did not post a link to the bag, only gave the name of the manufacturer, and the place I bought it, Amazon. I thought I’d be doing a service to those who might wish to spend a bit more of their travel budget on the experience, than the luggage (I.e. The savings compared to the bags Nora recommended could make the difference between street food and a Michelin star restaurant for dinner). Plus my recommendation was for a gender-neutral item that would be totally suitable for men, not just the chic ladies bags she featured.
@@WisGuy4 exactly. My preference is a reviewer with integrity. I wish you well in your endeavors.
@@WisGuy4 I have no recollection of your other comment, and I certainly would not have deleted a comment of yours if it makes a suggestion which would help other viewers like you.
I am insulted that you think I might be so driven by dollars that I would delete helpful comments promoting other items.
If you sift through the many thousands of comments on other videos on my channel, you'll see hundreds of comments suggesting alternative products and services, some of which I've then bought myself to test out so I can create helpful reviews.
@@696969bold Please see my reply to WisGuy4's comment. I don't understand why or how my integrity ever came into question.
There is no point in being selectively angry. So you don’t believe in buying fake bags, a purchase is a purchase, regardless of the intention. I personally think it's crazy to care too much about how people want to spend their money. I bought real coach, marc jacobs, and mcm. If it's more than 1500, I'll buy a replica niceshopx . Guess what else I have in the bank, I'm a homeowner and drive a Lexus. I saw someone on RUclips who had tons of luxury items, lived in their mom's house, and was broke