Regarding small bags in the bins... this is my typical strategy: I typically try to board ASAP (whether in F or Y). When I get to my seat, both bags immediately go in the bin (in a way to minimize wasted space). When boarding is wrapping up and it looks like they are going to start checking bags, I look for someone who isn't whining about having to check a bag and offer to put their bag in the bin in place of my smaller bag. I'm always the hero.

I'm 5'11" so I don't mind a bag at my feet, but I prefer not to have one. After takeoff, I just get out my laptop and put the bag behind my legs. This allows me to stretch out just fine...