Travel experts, including etiquette gurus and a serving flight attendant, have shared the protocol for using overhead storage space on flights.
They say overhead bin space is not guaranteed above your seat; it is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and you should be prepared to check your bag at the plane door if there is no space.
Moving another passenger’s bag without permission is considered poor etiquette, though shifting bags to make space is acceptable.
Passengers should avoid placing small items in overhead bins, as this reduces space for larger bags; small items belong under the seat.
To maximize space, roller bags should be placed with wheels or handles facing outward, and passengers should wait for the seatbelt sign to turn off and crew’s signal before retrieving luggage to prevent injury.