Well I recently flew LGW - Berlin return.
The flight was full both ways. I had been assigned 17d at check-in and took my time to board. Out bound- Not enough overhead space for bags and coats and there was a lot o f scrambling around. As I had a small carry on I was asked by crew if I could put it at my feet, which is a joke as I have long legs and already had a winter coat on my lap.
On the way back from Berlin it was better policed and excess carry ons were being checked at the gate, making for a much better return flight.