As to what to do once you are at the gate I agree with this:
Originally Posted by
3Cforme
...faced with a demand for a gate, tell the GA you won't be separated from your bag - you want to be booked onto a later flight.
Or as said before, get on your knees and nicely ask NICELY the GA to look up for space and make your excuse sound legit (pills, fragile items, items of sentimental value to you). And say please at least 10 times (count them)
In terms of how to prevent the situation, also as said before:
-Have a bag that fits under the seat, put it there for take off and landing.
As of what NOT to do:
-NEVER argue with the GA/FA, if they say there is no space, it is very likely true to their perception. Absolutely pointless in trying to argue differently with the FA or here in FT.