Jetsetters are on the move this August and many people are looking for affordable luggage for their vacation. Usually people focus on a new carry-on or checked suitcase, but when you think about it, the bag you use the most is your “personal item.” You’ll be constantly reaching for your passport and wallet and probably keeping your valuables in it too. So, yes, it’s an important purchase. Our advice? Before you make any hasty decisions, check out what air travel pros always carry over their shoulder.
We’ve highlighted many flight crew travel favorites, from comfortable shoes to carry-on luggage, but carry-on luggage seems to hold a special place in their hearts. If you’re looking for an unexpectedly spacious bag for under the seat, this duffel bag from Travelpro has the flight attendant seal of approval. Prefer a more casual option? Some flight attendants use this spacious backpack as a handbag/carry-on hybrid.
Check out the expert-recommended travel bags below so you can pack like a pro for your next trip.
Amazon
Looking for a bag that’s a little more casual and laid-back? “I’m a flight attendant and I wear it every day!” raved one delighted shopper. “I wear it as a handbag. I had to unpack something for a friend the other day and she couldn’t believe how much I had in it! It holds a lot and I got the medium size.” A 20% off coupon also means more flexibility in your travel budget!
$22 at Amazon
Amazon
This best-selling backpack has received over 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It’s packed with compartments and has enough room for everything from your laptop and toiletries to a few changes of clothes.
“I take it with me on all my travels,” raved this crew member. “(I) literally love it so much. It has so much space and opens all the way up, like a mini suitcase. 10/10.”
$39 at Amazon
Amazon
Reinforced edges, a steel frame and water-resistant fabric make this bag a sturdy option for the not-always-friendly skies. Other features include a padded laptop compartment, a USB charging port and 19—yes, 19—pockets.
“I’m a flight attendant and I saw some of my colleagues with this bag recently so I thought I’d give it a try,” wrote this curious shopper. “I love all the compartments to hold everything! I’m looking forward to using it. The USB charger is a bonus!”
$50 at Amazon
Amazon
Flight attendants have been recommending Travelpro products for ages, and this lightweight carry-on is one of their favorites. It’s compact enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, but roomy enough to hold all your essentials (and then some). Don’t forget to clip the on-page coupon valued at $10.20.
“I’m a flight attendant and I find the airline bags too heavy and too big,” said one five-star reviewer. “This one is the perfect size to fit my flight gear, electronics, cardigan, and essentials.”
$75 at Amazon
Of course, if you have Amazon Prime, shipping is free. Not a member yet? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, if you don’t have Prime, you still get free shipping on orders over $35.)
The reviews cited above reflect the most current versions at the time of publication.
