Air travel is an art form of sorts, and those who do it regularly know how to really nail it. While I consider myself a professional packer, simply because I can jam more than one would think humanly possible into a suitcase with my packing techniques, I’m not an expert in flight travel.
Like most of us, my air travel is limited to less than a handful of domestic flights and one, or if I’m fortunate, two, big trips a year. Following the pandemic, I didn’t travel by air for two and a half years, and I distinctly recall how strange it was in an airport.
When packing for my first trip (JFK to LAX), I remembered at the last minute that I had sold the under-the-seat carry-on I had used for almost a decade: my trusty Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM.
While the Neverfull isn’t a favorite of some because it doesn’t have a top zip, I, and many others, found the Neverfull to be a great bag to travel with. It really was never full, and its coated canvas material made it durable. However, the bag no longer suited my style, and because of its increase in value, the price was right, and off she went to her new home.
I’ve been without a decent carry-on since, and each time I go to pack for a trip, it dawns on me that, once again, I’ve still not replaced it. I’ve made it work each time with random canvas bags, but ahead of a ten-day trip to Paris this Spring, I’ve got my eye on a few different under-the-seat options.
Travel Style
I don’t have many requirements in mind, but I’ve started thinking that maybe I should. The main factors are durability, size, and style. I want a bag that’s not delicate as it will be shoved on the floor where people’s feet sit.
The size needs to be big but not too big (I like to store my phone, a book, some snacks, and other miscellanies inside + whatever purse I’m traveling with needs to be able to fit inside to adhere to one carry-on and one personal item. Lastly, I want it to feel stylish and like me (which is precisely why I sold the Neverfull).
I’m likely going the vintage route because I want something nice and designer, but I’m not about to spend thousands on something to put on the floor. I also love the idea that it’s already been well-loved and worn in, so I won’t be worried about the wear and tear it will endure.
I’m debating between a Vintage Louis Vuitton Epi Keepall, a Chanel Travel Ligne Duffle Bag, or a Vintage Loewe Amazona Weekender. All of which I’ve been eyeing on the resale market.
Which would you choose, and what’s your go-to under-the-seat bag?
My absolute favorite travel bag is the Longchamp Le Pliage! It’s lightweight, can be wiped down, and has a zipper. I have the large one in a dark color and use it exclusively for travel.
Definitely. Esp being able to wipe it down, so vital after it has spent hours in a not-that-clean spot under the seat. And the light weight is appreciated for that lonnnng walk to passport control.
Second this! I have the City version in coated canvas as well and it has held up beautifully. The new ones have a second, larger pocket that is super-useful for stuff you need to grab quickly.
I don’t use a designer bag for travel because the thought of one of my nice bags on the floor of the plane or on the security conveyor belt is revolting. I have a plain, unlined, leather bag (Kurt Geiger) that weighs nothing as is dedicated to air travel. I can put my good bag in it when going through security or onto the plane and it additionally holds my water bottle, snacks, iPad,etc.
It’s such a great bag that I bought two more just in case. My daughter “borrowed” one that I’m never getting it back.
I use my almost 20 year old Prada duffel bag when traveling.
I use my Goyard tote due to size. I have an insert to organize all my stuff. Honestly its whatever tote you like and fits your stuff. I have a Neverfull and Dior Tote and they all work the same. A zipper would be nice.
Herve Chapelier. It was very big in the ’80s and I over-bought (who, me?) Lots of different colors and sizes in indestructible nylon. It can actually be put in the washer. And it folds flat to pack. It is still useful and good looking.
Paravel’s Cabana Tote! Spill-proof, spacious, and looks beautiful. I constantly get compliments whenever I wear it.
I use a Goyard Artois. Roomy, and has a zip top.
A Moynat Oh! tote. As good a travel companion as a Neverfull but you don’t see them everywhere. If I absolutely need a zipper I use a Tumi duffle that is bulletproof and holds as much as a Keepall.
I have an all black Burberry tote from 2009 that is my go to for travel. She’s been all around the world. Two handles, detachable crossbody strap, lots of interior and exterior pockets, water resistant, dark color to hide wear, subtle branding – she’s perfect.
Not designer, but Cuyana makes a great zipped leather travel bag that has three compartments, some handy interior pockets, and a trolley sleeve for slipping on top of your wheeled carry on. With the way I stuff my bags, a trolley sleeve is a must.
Harvey’s wanderer! I absolutely love it. It’s soft sided, roomy and I have been able to fit it under every airplane seat I’ve tried.
Harvey’s only comes out with them occasionally and they often sell out fast. The bags last forever so they’re worth it.
I use my Saint Laurent Sac de Jour large size. It’s so roomy and fits a lot of my stuff