I have tried to find the answer by way of a search but couldn't. Please direct me to the correct thread if there is one.

I am in CE on an A319 outbound and A320 inbound. I plan to have a rucksack (how uncouth) by way of carry on. I am not precious about a window seat.
​​​​​​
Am I right in thinking row 1 isn't actually the best seat in CE if you have carry on as the over head bins are likely to be already full? And if so, am I right in thinking row 2 c/d are actually the 'best' seats as they are near the front so will get served quickly, disembark quickly and have easy access to overhead bins?

Also, other than simply asking the person I will be sharing the row with, what is the etiquette for putting carry on bags under the middle seat?

Thank you.