[JamesianP]

Sometimes the plane will be too full and you'll get required to check your overhead bag. So you can't count on it for fragile/valuable stuff. In my case I bring a cloth handbag stuffed in there so I can take out the electronics and carry it as a personal item. I've had to use it a couple times.

[qazxcvbnmlp]

Yeah… I’ve been the person that has to tell (metaphorical)you that I am checking your bag.

It really makes our job easier when you have a backup plan for your electronics because it avoids a lot of conflict. Also.. we totally understand it sucks when we take your bag to check it.

[em-bee]

i am always wondering how that would play out for me because if i remove the valuable stuff, there is nothing left to check in.

and i always come with two bags. one is laptops and the other is a musical instrument. i would not allow you to check in either.

[qazxcvbnmlp]

If you want to be assured space in carry on:

1. Double check the rules before you go and verify everything you are taking is allowed.

2. Purchase some sort of ticket that has priority boarding (also make sure you are at the gate enough time ahead to take advantage of it). First / premium economy.

3. If we run out of space and you must check something. You may be upset: If you argue, and escalate the situation- it probably won’t convince us of anything, we will just call the police and have you removed from the flight. 99.9% of the customer services agent (and their supervisors) job is defined by clear procedures that they have no control over.