Do this 1 thing if you want to ensure you get overhead space on a plane every time.
It's happened to all of us - they announce it's boarding time. Group 1 goes ahead, then Group 2, maybe Group 3 and then the announcement is made: "overhead cabin space is full so all passengers need to check any carry-ons and collect them at their destination."
Travel pros agree—if you want to guarantee overhead bin space every time you fly, being among the first to board is your best bet. Because passengers with disabilities or those needing special assistance typically go first, your odds improve if you’re part of an early boarding group. After that, it’s a scramble—and being in a later group often means your carry‑on might get gate-checked.
Don’t Wing It: Easy Ways to Snag Overhead Bin Space on Every Flight
If securing a spot in the overhead bin is a must for your trip, here’s the smartest move: board early. By law, passengers needing assistance—such as those with disabilities—or certain groups like families with young children or active military personnel often board first. After that, your boarding group depends on your fare class or airline status. Flying late in the process could leave you scrambling or forced to gate-check your carry-on.
Buying an early-boarding upgrade is often the only surefire way to score that overhead space.Don't sleep on priority boarding
Travel pros make it clear: priority boarding is the real deal. Sara Wilcox from Fora Travel notes that buying an early-boarding upgrade is often the only surefire way to score that overhead space. It’s typically offered when booking or closer to your flight, and prices fluctuate depending on airline or route.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_m3ckr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeHenry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, puts it plainly: “Priority boarding is basically the race to get our carry‑on suitcases in the overhead bins.”
United Airlines offers this to regular passengers starting at $15.
Check what perks your credit card offers
And the clever workarounds don’t stop there. NerdWallet’s Sally French suggests another path: using an airline-affiliated travel credit card can help fast-track elite status—meaning earlier boarding without paying extra. Plus, booking premium or mainstream economy tickets can elevate your boarding position—though it comes at a higher price. If you’ve got enough points or miles, upgrading your fare can also move you forward in the queue.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to air travel, securing overhead bin space doesn’t have to be a gamble. With a little planning—like upgrading your boarding group, using the right credit card, or booking a higher fare—you can breeze onto the plane with confidence, knowing your carry-on has a spot above you. While these perks might come with a price, they can save you the stress (and time) of gate-checking your bag. After all, a smoother boarding experience sets the tone for a smoother trip.
Yahoo CreatorBrenda ChuinkamCreator of TheankaraqueenHi there! I'm Brenda. A thirty something year old millennial who loves all things travel and fashion. Happy to share my tips and tricks when it comes to booking flights as well as dressing up.Follow
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