Improving Your Chances for Overhead Bin Space

If checking your bag isn’t necessary, there are ways to boost your odds of securing overhead bin space on flights.

Passengers with disabilities often have the legal right to board first. Additionally, certain groups, like families with young kids and military personnel, might also enjoy early boarding privileges.

After these groups, the rest of the passengers have to wait for their boarding groups to be called. This can depend on your ticket type and the airline’s policies.

Those in later boarding groups frequently face the risk of having to check their bags at the gate since overhead space can fill up quickly.

Experts suggest a handy tip for finding that elusive bin space. “The main reason to invest in an early boarding upgrade is to secure overhead bin access,” says Sara Wilcox from Fora Travel.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel market research expert, describes priority boarding as a “race to fit your carry-on in the overhead bins.”

Airlines may offer early boarding as an optional add-on when booking your flight or as the departure date approaches. Prices differ between airlines, and the length of the flight can also affect those costs, according to travel expert Sally French.

“If you care about overhead space, paying for priority boarding is essential,” she notes.

If you’re looking for alternatives to upgrade, Harteveldt recommends considering a travel credit card affiliated with the airline, which can help elevate your status over time. Travelers with elite status usually board first.

If you fly often, it might be worth maintaining a card associated with your preferred airline due to other perks, like waived or reduced baggage fees. Just be sure to read the card terms before signing up.

Booking a Premium Economy or Main Economy ticket can also help since it often includes earlier boarding. In contrast, those with discount or limited fare tickets may find themselves boarding last.

With a premium fare, you can choose your seat and benefit from early boarding, though it typically comes at a higher price.

Some passengers might even be able to use points or miles to upgrade to a better seat if the airline allows it.