Portland Gear Backpacks: Standard Size and Compact Size Sizing Issues When Taking Air Canada to Rome

Looking at pictures of the 'compact' bag it looks to not be very squishable, so even if not full, could be a problem to pass muster as an under seat bag..

Have you used it as an under seat bag in the past? How well does it fit? Foot room?

Given jet fuel prices, I doubt the airline is going to be lenient when it comes to passing on an opportunity to impose a bag fee.

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I have never used anything from Portland Gear before. I just ordered the Standard size Portland Gear Backpack as my carry-on and as I said, that seems to be a decent match requirements/dimensions-wise. It's the smaller one that I'm worried about. Excellent point about fuel prices, etc. I agree with you and might get their Compact Tote instead of the Compact Backpack...

Wow, how long is your trip?
I love my Portland Gear (black) compact size and it still looks new after multiple domestic and international flights. I use it as my personal item. The unique top design creates extra space- I have even carried my (lightweight) hikers. Or it can hold a small packing cube. Packed full it can be a tight fit under the seat, if upright- likely you'll have to put it in a sizer?
I am a minimalist packer but am wondering if you can really fit what you need for your trip in the standard size Portland Gear? You might consider a lightweight duffel? Or a slightly bigger backpack?
But they're definitely well made!

I like them, too, but I read that the compact size backpack from Portland Gear is, I think, too wide to be a personal item. Have your had any issues with it as a personal item when you have travelled internationally? Thanks!

By the way, our trip is 7 days in Rome. Very excited and can't wait until June 24th. We drive to Montreal and fly out from there to Rome. Luckily, the flight is less than 8 hours and is a direct flight, too.

Hi, Jen!
Oh, with careful packing and only a week, plus in warmer weather, you could pull this off?! (I rewear on the way home what I wore on the plane to the destination.)
Once or twice when the flight attendants did their final check I have had to push my foot against the bag to keep it upright and a little tilted and not sticking out somewhat if there was really limited under seat space. But I haven't had it fail the check in or boarding process. I typically have it by its trolley strap on my July (international size) wheeled carryon.
Weight, combined, has been more the issue on flights with restrictions for both bags, because fully loaded it is heavy....
If you're still concerned the tote concept might be the way to go.

I might just risk it and get that compact backpack...we'll see how daring I am in the next few weeks! Thanks for your advice and happy traveling!