Punki: I couldn't agree more.

I like 1st class window bulkhead seats, but there's no often place to put a bag. I travel with a smallish (fits under a coach seat) suitcase on wheels for my laptop computer and other work related items. I often find it difficult to store overhead because people bring so much stuff with them.

For years, I used to board at the final call so I could avoid the onslaught at the gate, but nowadays I've gotten to the point where I join the herd, just so I can make sure there's room in the overhead compartments for my little bag.

Has there ever been a thread on FlyerTalk: "I always check luggage" vs. "I never check luggage?" I'd be interested in seeing other FF's takes on the topic. And it might give a little insight into why there are so many bags in the overhead bins.