We are going to Disney World in November of 2012. It has been quite some time since we traveled by plane last, since 2003 to be exact, so I cannot remember how big the spaces is under the seats. There will be four of us traveling on this trip, myself, husband, 14-year-old daughter, and my daughter's 14-year-old friend. I would love to take as much as possible with us on the plane, not so much to avoid baggage fees, but to ensure we each have basic essentials for a couple of days if our luggage is delayed or lost.
I am looking a purchasing a weekender for myself and maybe my daughter as our carry-on bag. My daughter, however, already owns a Vera Bradley small duffel bag. Does anyone know if the weekender will hold more than her small duffel? Also, I am looking at purchasing a Vera Bradley tote for my daughter, her friend, and myself to use as a personal item. This is where I need the most help. I was thinking either the Villager or the Pleated Tote as a personal item because I like that they both zip at the top instead of being open. I think the villager looks like the ideal size and looks as if it should fit under a plane seat, but the Pleated Tote is on sale right now. I wouldn't mind taking advantage of the sale on the Pleated Tote, then we would also be able to carry more on since the Pleated Tote has a little more space than the Villager. But will the Pleated Tote, or the Villager for that matter, pass as a purse/personal item? And will either one of them fit underneath the plane seat?