On many flights, you’re allowed to bring a carry-on and one personal item, which presumes you’ll find space in the overhead bin.

But those bins fill up first, and if you’re not in boarding group one, two, or three, you may be out of luck and that carry-on will be checked.

So plan proactively before you get to the airport. Keep your medications, key travel documents, valuables, and yes, even a change of clothing in the personal item that can fit under your seat.

Airlines also lose gate-checked bags.