A 26 incher most definitely not fit up front.

Yeah no way is that going to fit anywhere but sideways. I have the Costco/Kirkland 22" (two wheel not the four wheel roller) and a Strongbags 22". They both baaaaarely fit in wheels-first in a typical overhead, sometimes with a lot of coercion and door slamming. I always assumed the 26 inch bags were designed more for the Fedex type guys who live in base, are the only ones on the plane, and are gone for a week or more at a time.

After all my 26" talk...I decided to see the difference in person between the 26 and 22 inch bag. Much to my surprise, and in line with what everyone has been saying, my bag fit in the overheads because it is in fact a 22" bag. A ruler confirmed this last night.
Just to keep this thread going (as I sit with fingers crossed that my non rev home works out..and boredom) lets start the "which is best debate" between the 22" suiter, 22" computer front, and 22" no side pockets.

Cheers Boys...see y'all in a few months

All I can say is those side pockets, while bulky, are pretty darn handy to have.

Glad the overheads are getting bigger or the BDJs (Barbie Dream Jets) in my previous life anyone who showed up w the 26 was a fn *********. I flew The dash that had a tiny closet. I Fly the BBDJ now. So there was only 1 way to get all in and closed. 26 always went in last and was easily accessible. How convenient. And as many swaps as we did... world of ****ed off before 7am. I’m forced to basically pack sandals 11 months out of the year or a tote cause 1 pair of shoes takes 33% in the 22. Big socks I know.

Bag of Choice
 

Hey guys,

Since this is talking about bags...I am starting training in a few weeks. What is your preferred bag set up to have? Looking forward to starting!

Luggage Works Stealth 22. Steel frame is heavier and more expensive but can withstand a nuclear apolocalypse. The aluminum frame is lighter but can’t take as much abuse. If you commute, I’d go steel frame. Live in base, aluminum. Do not get a bag with a telescopic handle. They will jam and you will be stuck trying to Tetris your bag in a full MD-88 one day. Ask me how I know.

I have the strongbag vortex with the aerocoast pro crew something tote hanging off the hook. The vortex is fine and I suggest grabbing some vacuum bags to make extra space (they changed my life). The aerocoast bag has enough space for your gear and has a compartment for snack basket treasures.

And for what it's worth, it looks like strongbags made the Vortex a little smaller now. They're advertising their 21" at 21.25x14.25x7.25, which should be pretty nice. Too many 22" bags out there don't exactly fit without a lot of effort.

Correct. When you look at it, it’s definitely a little smaller and is measured at 21 but I can pack for a 4-5 day with no issue. At first I thought I’d miss the outside pockets but with the vortex I realized that those pockets make or break it fitting in the overhead haha.