Are you tired of playing Tetris in the overhead bin with carry-on luggage? Yeah, that Rimowa is the best-in-class, but if there's a bunch of cheap carry-ons taking up all the space, what's the point. The most savvy travelers, like Esquire editors,know the secret to stress-free flying is the personal item bag. It's not just a small bag. It's a travel essential, squeezing under the seat in front while holding everything from your oversized headphones to that emergency snack stash.

We've tried bags, scoured reviews, and rounded up real-user feedback to bring you the 12 best personal item bags that have proven their worth on countless journeys. These bags are not only stylish and compact but also surprisingly spacious. So, whether you're a minimalist traveler trying to avoid baggage claim or someone who likes their essentials within arm's reach, this list is your ticket to packing like a pro. You might even earn a nod from the flight attendants.

Best Overall Personal Item Bag

Best Personal Bag for Everyday

Best For Adventure Travel

Away The Everywhere Bag

Calpak Luka Duffel

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L

July Carry All Weekender

Travelpro Crew UnderSeat

Solo New York Re:Define Laptop Backpack

Béis The Mini Weekender in Slate

This bag has gotten plenty of shine on TikTok, but we can say it holds up in real life, as well. It's a compact bag that's perfect for minimalists and efficient packers. Whether it's for an overnight stay or a weekend getaway, this bag toes the line with a manageable size and plenty of useful compartments.

It features a wide, easy-access opening that simplifies packing and includes a built-in padded laptop sleeve to keep gadgets secure. Additionally, it boasts a separate bottom compartment, perfect for shoes, toiletries, or segregating dirty laundry from clean. When it's time to move, the trolley passthrough pocket allows for easy attachment to suitcase handles, making it an ideal travel companion for those who prize both style and practicality.

As for the design, we know this is Esquire dot com, so we do have to acknowledge that Béis has more of a lock on the femme market with this purse-looking bag. That said, we've seen guys pull off a Béis bag in black, so if you're really into the functionality—we very much are—there's no reason to hold back on this one.