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Summer 2024: Top Bag Picks for Spirit, Frontier, and Basic Economy Class

Keep budget airlines affordable. Here are 12 of our favorite bags for this summer season that fly on budget airlines for free.

Published June 09, 2024

An untitled image from "Summer 2024: Top Bag Picks for Spirit, Frontier, and Basic Economy Class"

1. Take OFF Suitcase 2.0 18 inch

This is our summer favorite because it seems practically designed for the BagsThatFly traveler. The Take OFF 2.0 helps you avoid bag fees by allowing you to remove its wheels. When the wheels come off, this suitcase will fit in most personal item sizers.

Its smooth shell and compact profile make it easy to slide under seats. The four 360-degree spinning wheels ensure effortless maneuvering.

Reviewers appreciate the suitcase's lightweight design and capacity. One user noted that they could fit six days' worth of clothes and additional items, while another highlighted the importance of not overpacking to maintain easy rolling. The built-in TSA lock provides added security, and the suitcase's compact size makes it suitable for shorter flights, though it may be less comfortable for longer trips due to limited legroom.

Note: This bag exceeds the free personal item size allownace on United Basic Economy and JetBlue Blue Basic fares

2. Ozuko Carry-On 18 inch

Ozuko's latest suitcase is designed to fit snugly under airplane seats, helping you avoid bag fees and maintain a low profile. In spite of its small form factor, this bag offers ample storage with its eight zippered pockets, ideal for organizing clothes, gadgets, and daily essentials.

The retractable handle and hidden handle zippered pocket provide flexibility, allowing you to switch between rolling and carrying the bag as a handbag. There's also a strap that allows you to secure this on top of a larger suitcase for when you're traveling with a larger carry-on or roller.

Note: This bag exceeds the free personal item size allowance on United Basic Economy and JetBlue Blue Basic fares

3. Wrangler 15 inch Underseat Spinner

The Wrangler 15" is a feature-packed bag designed to fit on any airline, including as a free personal item on JetBlue Blue Basic.

Fully featured and JetBlue friendly

Equipped with a side USB port, the Wrangler allows for on-the-go device charging (power bank not included). Its 4-wheel spinner system and in-line blade wheels provide effortless mobility, making it easy to navigate through crowded spaces and airports. The fully-lined interior features accessory pockets, a padded laptop compartment, and an open side pocket for quick access to essentials.

Durability is a key feature, with sturdy materials and a robust telescopic trolley handle system ensuring long-lasting performance. One reviewer noted the bag’s capacity to hold five days' worth of items, highlighting its depth and numerous handy pockets. Another praised its fit in multiple airline measurement bins and its ability to hold two laptops and various accessories with ease.

Note: While compact, this bag will not fly for free on United Basic Economy

4. KT20 Max Carry

While lesser known, KT20 scores favorably with its Max Carry underseat duffels. Why? Because it's one of only a few brands that cater specifically to United Basic Economy and JetBlue Blue Basic travelers.

Constructed from premium, hard-wearing fabric, the KT20 ensures durability and reliability, backed by a 2-year warranty. The main compartment is spacious enough to keep your items secure, while a front zipped pocket offers easy access to travel documents and essentials like books, headphones, and snacks. The bag can be carried by hand with its top handles, worn on your shoulder using the adjustable strap, or mounted over larger luggage thanks to a dedicated rear strap.

Reviewers appreciate its durability and capacity. One user noted it fit five days' worth of clothes and other essentials, withstanding airport handling without showing signs of wear. Another praised its ability to hold two laptops and accessories. Another highlighted the bag's flexibility and useful compartments, recommending it for weekend trips and frequent travelers on budget airlines.

Find more bags

These bags represent just a handful of our favorites for this upcoming travel season. Search thousands of other bags that will fit your travel needs using the BagsThatFly Bag Finder. Safe and happy travels!

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