The Béis Mini Weekender Is My Go-To Personal-Item Carry-On Bag — Here’s Why

I'm a newly minted frequent flyer — traveling domestically more than ever to visit family and friends and check new locations off my bucket list — who's always on the hunt for the cheapest flight options. That usually means flying no-frills airlines like Spirit and Frontier or getting basic economy seating. Airlines are charging a pretty penny for overhead storage space and checked bags, so I've become determined to find the best personal-item carry-on bags that I can stow under my seat.

I've been a fan of the chic luggage brand Béis, which was founded by actress Shay Mitchell, since I test drove its Weekender Bag. So when I found out the brand was creating a mini version that allegedly fit the personal-item carry-on qualifications of my airlines, I had to give it a go. Keep reading to see if the Béis Mini Weekender ($98) could handle the test of a three-day friends weekend in DC while still fitting under the seat in front of me.

I adore my original Weekender bag — it's super functional (so. many. pockets.) without sacrificing on style — so I had high expectations for the mini version. This bag does not disappoint, especially as a personal-item carry-on bag.

For starters, the Béis Mini Weekender Bag has the two main features I loved from the original version: the double-zip shoe compartment and the pass-through trolley sleeve. Plus, this bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; two exterior zip pockets; a large zip pocket on the inside; and two small slip pockets. It even has a key-ring strap where you can attach pouches, keys, or your wallet for easy access.

With this organizational setup, it was easy to consolidate, fold, and pack my things. The top section fit three dresses, a pair of leggings, two tank tops, jean shorts, undergarments, socks, a set of pajamas, a small pouch of medications, and plenty of KN95 masks. This was more than what was needed for a long weekend, but you can never deny the benefit of having options. I used the two slip compartments to store my charging accessories and toothbrush and other toiletries. The internal zip pocket came in handy when flying back; I used it to separate my dirty clothes. I kept my iPad in the padded laptop sleeve. The bottom shoe compartment fit a pair of Circus by Sam Edelman Janis Sandals, my flat iron, and my makeup case, featuring a few skin-care products, contacts solution, a tiny hairbrush, and my go-to makeup. I had enough leftover room to pack a few snacks and put my handbag inside.

The Mini Weekender Bag has top handles and a removable and adjustable crossbody strap, making it easy and convenient to carry around. I appreciated the thick and cushioned padding on the longer crossbody strap as well as rolled top handles. Another clever feature is the expandable, clamshell-like zip-top opening of the top compartment. The bag opens up quite wide, so you can easily see and access your stuff and take out your electronics, which came in handy when going through security. It also has metal feet on the bottom, so it can stand up on its own without slumping over and slouching.

Although the Béis Mini Weekender has the space to pack extra stuff, including backup clothing and shoes, that doesn't mean you should. Like the original Weekender bag, this bag does not have wheels, and you should pack according to how much weight you can carry. If this is the only bag you're carrying, it's best to pack smart and light so you won't feel tired or topple over from carrying excess weight. However, if you're bringing a suitcase, make life easier and slide the Béis bag on top using the zipper-pocket trolley pass-through sleeve on the back.

Another thing to keep in mind is that traveling is rough. The bag will get shoved underneath seats and into the TSA conveyor belts. It'll bump into seats and walls, inevitably going through the wringer. It's no surprise that the bag will most likely endure a few scuffs. I intentionally chose black so wear and tear aren't noticeable. The other colors that are lighter are so chic, but it's something you should consider when choosing your shade preference.

The Béis Mini Weekender is ideal for any traveler, whether you're a frequent flyer or someone who goes on the occasional vacation. It is great for overnight trips and was a dream to use on my quick weekend getaway. The dimensions of this bag fit most airline requirements for a personal-item bag. For my United Express flight, it perfectly slides horizontally underneath the seat in front of me. I was able to tuck the straps underneath the bag as well. If you prefer to fly the cheapest options (Spirit Airlines, Frontier, or basic economy seating), this bag will be your go-to for fitting all your vacation must haves and in-flight necessities.

With the costs of air travel increasing and the extra fees for carry-on luggage and checked bags, it's worth investing in a quality personal-item bag that can fit all your quick-trip needs. The price point of the Béis Mini Weekender bag is around the same as checking your bag for a round trip, and feels well worth the price of admission to me — at least for quick trips.

The Mini Weekender fits the right amount of clothing and necessities for a three-day trip, including a few extra outfits if you pack smart (like dresses and repeatable wardrobe essentials). It has a few internal and external pockets that make it easy to find my things and organize my bag.

TBH, I now find myself reaching for the Mini Weekender instead of my first love, the original Weekender Bag, when flying because it fits so nicely underneath the aircraft seat. (Meaning, I don't have to join the melee for space in the overhead bins.)

Rating:
★★★★★