3 ms·

I travel with a rectangular soft-walled carry-on backpack that's built to the maximum allowed dimensions. More than once, I've been near the end of the boardin

I travel with a rectangular soft-walled carry-on backpack that's built to the maximum allowed dimensions. More than once, I've been near the end of the boarding line, where they stop people from getting on the plane with their full-sized carry-ons because there's not enough room (which happens more and more frequently now). Every time, the backpack goes right through.

namdnay 7y ago
My secret is a soft roller to IATA size, but with a zip system that lets you expand the interior by 1-2 inches. If I'm flying for leisure in economy and they're checking luggage in bins, I'll pull out some clothes and wear them to pass the gate, then stop just after and cram them back in. Silly, but that's the game :(
FireBeyond 7y ago
I occasionally travel with a Pelican Air 1535, which is carry-on compatible, with my camera gear (about $5-15,000 depending on what I'm doing). I've heard of people suggesting one of two methods of handling forced check-ins: 1) I use an app called MyGearVault that shows the value of the kit (also offers insurance). Checked bags are only insured to a maximum of 3,500. You can extend this to 5,000 for $50, but no more. "I do not want to check my bag because it is not covered by your insurance". 2) carry $50/$100 - if asked to check your bag, look behind you. "Hey, is someone willing to check their bag in place of me, here's some incentive". I've never personally tried other method, but I've heard people claim success with either.