These minor carry-on cases are designed to fit neatly beneath the seat in front of you during your journey and are lightweight, compact, and easy to handle. These are a great alternative to typical carry-on luggage because they provide easy access to your items.
Top Picks
Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:
- Best Convertible Backpack Briefcase: 10X Laptop Travel Bag (click to view) - a versatile backpack briefcase that can be converted from a messenger bag, to a backpack, and can be used as a briefcase too. Made from full grain leather.
- Best Stylish 17-inch Laptop Bag: City Large Laptop Bag (click to view) - a professional large laptop bag for a 17-inch laptop, made from full grain leather, and with two large internal compartments, as well as an external zipped pocket.
- Best Professional Tote Bag: Elegance Tote Bag (click to view) - a stylish zipped tote bag that's ideal for work or travel. The full grain leather looks impeccable, and the detachable shoulder strap makes it versatile for multiple uses.
- Best Traditional Business Briefcase: No.1 Briefcase (click to view) - a classically-styled leather briefcase, ideal for formal business situations. Multiple compartments, including a dedicated laptop compartment.
- Best Stylish Laptop Backpack: Prime Backpack (click to view) - a stylish laptop carry-on backpack made from full grain leather. Handmade in Italy.
- Best Small Shoulder Bag: Isabella Shoulder Bag (click to view) - a cute leather shoulder bag with detachable shoulder strap. Made from high quality full grain leather.
Best Underseat Luggage 2023
10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag
Best for business travel with a touch of luxury. The 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:
Product | 10X Laptop Travel Bag |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Backpack Straps and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 31 cm (12 in) |
Height | 42 cm (17 in) |
Depth | 17 cm (7 in) |
Weight | 2 kg (0.9 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the 10X product video below:
Browse more images of the 10X:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Fits most laptops up to 16 inches | |
Designed for easy travel and convenience | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |
Essential Modern Briefcase
Best for business trips with a modern edge. The Essential Modern Briefcase is sleek and functional, perfect for carrying your work essentials in style.
Essential Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Essential Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 31 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.3 kg (0.6 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Essential product video below:
Browse more images of the Essential:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Modern and stylish design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Spacious and versatile | |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |
City Large Leather Laptop Bag
Best for urban professionals who need to carry a laptop and essentials in style. The City Large Leather Laptop Bag is sleek and functional.
City Large Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
Product | City Large Laptop Bag |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 17 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 45 cm (18 in) |
Height | 34 cm (13 in) |
Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
Weight | 1.6 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the City Large product video below:
Browse more images of the City Large:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Fits most laptops up to 17 inches | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |
Liberty Leather Backpack
Best for chic city breaks with hands-free convenience - Liberty leather backpack is perfect for exploring new destinations in style.
Liberty Backpack Product Highlights:
Product | Liberty Backpack |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Adjustable Straps |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 33 cm (13 in) |
Height | 40 cm (16 in) |
Depth | 12 cm (5 in) |
Weight | 1.4 kg (0.6 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Liberty product video below:
Browse more images of the Liberty:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and versatile design | Not waterproof |
Multiple compartments for organization | May not be ideal for carrying extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to wear | |
Durable and long-lasting | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Can be easily cleaned and maintained |
Prime Leather Backpack
Best for chic city explorations with hands-free convenience - Prime Leather Backpack.
Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
Quality Assurance | Comes with a certificate of leather origin |
Manufacturing | Made in Florence, Italy |
Interior Lining | Fine Italian cotton lining |
Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK zippers |
Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
Laptop Sleeve | Dedicated sleeve for up to a 14" laptop |
Carry-on Compliant | Meets airline size standards for carry-on luggage |
Personalized | Personalize this backpack with a laser engraving, perfect as a gift |
Color Options | Solid brown, classic tan, deep red, elegant black |
Watch the Prime product video below:
Browse more images of the Prime:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and versatile design | Not waterproof |
Multiple compartments for organization | Not ideal for carrying extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to wear | |
Durable and long-lasting | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Can be easily cleaned and maintained |
Elegance Leather Tote Bag
Best for business trips with a touch of sophistication. The Elegance Leather Tote Bag is perfect for carrying your laptop and documents in style.
Elegance Tote Bag Product Highlights:
Material Origin | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany |
Laptop Sleeve | Specifically designed slot for up to a 14" laptop |
Interior Quality | Robust Italian cotton canvas lining, pleasant to touch |
Zipper Durability | Renowned Japanese YKK zippers ensuring longevity |
Craftsmanship | Handcrafted in family-owned studios in Florence, Italy |
Sustainability Commitment | Supports traditional craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices |
Leather Treatment | Leather treated with sustainable methods, ensuring quality and origin |
Wear Resistance | Designed for frequent use without excessive wear and tear |
Handle Strength | Handles crafted to carry laptops, documents, and books securely |
Watch the Elegance product video below:
Browse more images of the Elegance:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage | |
Stylish design |
Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Briefcase
Best for business trips with a touch of elegance. The Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
Exquisite Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Exquisite Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 29 cm (11 in) |
Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Exquisite product video below:
Browse more images of the Exquisite:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Sleek and sophisticated appearance | Not completely waterproof |
Slim design for easy portability | Limited storage space compared to larger bags |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
Perfect for both casual and professional use | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Sufficient storage for laptop and essentials |
Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag
Best for business travel with a touch of sophistication. The Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
Elegant Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | Elegant Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Elegant product video below:
Browse more images of the Elegant:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Slim and compact design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Elegant and professional appearance | |
Fits most laptops up to 15.6 inches | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage |
No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase
Best for business travel with a touch of luxury. The No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase exudes sophistication and practicality for the modern professional.
No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
Design | Spacious triple-gusset design suitable for a laptop up to 15.6 inches |
Interior Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
Zipper | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
Security | Locking feature for unattended safety |
Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly practices |
Engraving | Option to personalize with engravings |
Shoulder Strap | Padded for extra comfort, adjustable and detachable |
Personalized | Custom engraving options available for a unique touch |
Usage | Ideal for professionals, travelers, and students; versatile for work, meetings, and travel |
Watch the No.1 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.1:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Classic and stylish design | |
Suitable for both professional and casual use |
No.3 Leather Messenger Briefcase
Best for business trips with a touch of sophistication - No. 3 Leather Messenger Briefcase is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
No.3 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | No.3 Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 13 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 38 cm (15 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 9 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.5 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the No.3 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.3:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and professional design | Not completely waterproof |
Ample storage space for essentials | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to carry and handle | |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Easy to clean and maintain | |
Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
Suitable for work, school, and travel |
City Leather Laptop Bag
Best for business trips and city travel with a sleek leather design and spacious compartments for laptops and documents.
City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
Color Options | Solid Brown, Elegant Black, Deep Red |
Laptop Compatibility | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop |
Inner Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
Design | Professional and spacious design for work or travel essentials |
Adjustable Strap | Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap |
Inner Pockets | Stitched 100% cotton canvas lining |
Compartments & Pockets | 1 large zipped main compartment divided by a zipped padded pocket |
Personalized | Option to personalize with initials or a special message. |
Watch the City product video below:
Browse more images of the City:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
Ample storage space and compartments | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
Comfortable to carry and handle | |
Durable and long-lasting construction | |
Develops a unique patina over time | |
Easy to clean and maintain |
Bella Women's Small Leather Backpack
Best for hands-free city exploring with a touch of elegance - Bella Small Leather Backpack.
Material | Premium Italian full-grain leather |
Size | Carry-on compliant, personal-item compliant |
Features | Durable lining and YKK zipper |
Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
Bag Dimensions | Width: 27 cm, Height: 22 cm, Depth: 13 cm |
Fit | Can fit a DSLR camera, mini iPad, and 0.5-liter water bottle |
Adjustable Straps | Back shoulder straps are adjustable |
Color Options | Classic Tan, Elegant Black |
Personalized | Option to personalize with initials or a special message |
Watch the Bella product video below:
Browse more images of the Bella:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Compact size | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Designed for women | |
Multiple compartments for organized storage | |
Stylish design | |
Comfortable to wear as a backpack |
Isabella Shoulder Bag
Best for city explorers who want a chic and practical bag to carry essentials, with a versatile strap for cross-body or shoulder wear.
Isabella Shoulder Bag Product Highlights:
Material | Premium Italian full-grain leather |
Closure | Magnetic snap closure |
Origin | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany |
Craftsmanship | Made in Florence, Italy by skilled artisans |
Inner Lining | Fine Italian cotton lining |
Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK zippers |
Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
Inner Pocket | One zipped pocket inside |
Shoulder Strap | Adjustable and detachable |
Versatility | Can be carried as a crossbody bag or clutch purse |
Personalized | Option to personalize with initials or a special message |
Unique and Thoughtful Gift | Suitable for any occasion, showcasing thoughtfulness |
Watch the Isabella product video below:
Browse more images of the Isabella:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Multiple compartments for organized storage | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Designed for women | |
Stylish design | |
Can be worn as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag | |
Comfortable to wear |
No.2 Leather Messenger Briefcase
Best for business travel with a touch of class - No. 2 Leather Messenger Briefcase is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
No.2 Briefcase Product Highlights:
Product | No.2 Briefcase |
Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
Depth | 11 cm (4 in) |
Weight | 1.55 kg (0.7 lbs) |
Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the No.2 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.2:
Our review:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
Stylish and professional design | |
Suitable for both commuting and business use | |
Adjustable shoulder strap for comfort |
Key Features for Underseat Luggage
When selecting the best under-seat carry-on for your needs, including appearance, style, and even capacity, there are several factors to consider.
Weight
Most under-seat bags and cases are lightweight by design due to their lower dimensions. They’ll typically weigh only a few pounds when empty, but many are composed of robust and durable soft-side material like ripstop nylon.
Size
Each airline has its own guideline about the proper size for under-seat luggage, as is typically the case for luggage restrictions. Most under-seat bags must be smaller than ordinary carry-on luggage and measure roughly 16 x 14 x 8 inches as a rule of thumb.
Some low-cost airlines have recently revised their regulations and started charging a small fee for storing your carry-on bags in the overhead compartment. Dedicated underseat bags and cases are spacious enough to be helpful while compact enough to be classified as a free “personal item” on most flights because they are only a few inches smaller.
Compartments and Pockets
Remember that these are the smallest cases available. Thus, the primary storage area will only be enough for a night or two on the road. Some of the most outstanding examples also have a variety of zippered and mesh storage pockets to keep your smaller belongings safe and secure.
External pockets are also essential, as you’ll need quick access to your passport, boarding pass, wallet, phone, and the like while traveling.
Wheels
You could carry your bag with you, but why sweat the minor stuff when you can wheel it behind you neatly? Most of these cases have smooth-rolling, multi-directional spinning wheels, plus retractable handles for greater agility.
These minor cases are incredibly versatile, with additional grab handles for easy lifting when you need to and clever straps on the back that allow you to fit your underseat bag over the handle of your full-size spinner.
Other Features
Some bags have useful extras that boost value and convenience. Dedicated shoe pockets, for example, keep dirty shoes apart from clean apparel. At the same time, other storage solutions like card slots, organizer panels, and even key chains make it easy to stay organized.
USB ports are a convenient way for tech-savvy travelers to charge devices on their travels, but keep in mind that you’ll need to have your own power bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to fit a carry-on bag under the seat?
As many carry-on bags are too large to fit under airplane seats, it’s better to seek a case or bag that fulfills your airline’s personal item regulations.
Is it possible to fit a backpack under an airplane seat?
A variety of backpacks are available that fit under an airline seat. Ensure the backpack’s dimensions do not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Backpacks have the advantage of more give in the material and are easier to place beneath the seat than under-seat suitcases.
Related:
- Best Travel Bags
- Best Carry-on Luggage
- Best Travel Bags For Women
- Best Carry-On Bags for Women
- Best Lightweight Luggage
- Best Crossbody Bags For Travel
- Best Mens Travel Bag
Does under-seat luggage count as a personal item?
Under-seat luggage is often constructed with dimensions that fit beneath the front seat and meet the personal item requirements. Obviously, this hinges on the airline you fly with. American Airlines, for instance, classifies an individual item as 18 x 14 x 8 inches or less. It’s essential to the airline you’ll be flying with.
What’s the best way to pack an under-seat bag?
Since under-seat bags are substantially smaller than standard carry-ons, you must pack more carefully. Pack clothes that you can wear multiple times, leave things at home if possible, bring travel-sized versions of items, and roll your garments to have more space available.
Is it possible to place a duffel bag under an airplane seat?
If you fly with a minor duffel fitting under the seat in front of you, you will be allowed to bring it on board as a personal item. If you’re flying Basic Economy, use your duffel as overflow from your carry-on or as your only bag.
Related:
- Laptop Travel Bags
- Leather Carry On Luggage
- Travel Backpacks
- Travel Briefcases
- Women’s Leather Travel Bags
- Leather Travel Bags
- Best Soft Sided Luggage
- Best Luggage for Men
- Best Carry On Luggage with Laptop Compartment
- Best Designer Luggage
- Best Time To Buy Luggage
- Best Luggage Brands
- Best Luggage for Business Travel
- Best Luggage for European Travel
- Best Carry On Luggage for American Airlines
Does small luggage fit under the seat of a plane?
Although sizes and configurations vary, the best tiny carry-on luggage fits under the seats on most aircraft. You may even use these under-seat bags to pack for a short trip or carry that much-needed emergency change of clothes without taking up space in the overhead bin. Flight attendants will love you for it.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best underseat luggage bags.
If you have any questions or comments, contact us at info@vonbaer.com, or leave them in the comments.
Want to read more? Check out our Travel pages here.
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