I can only speak for myself, obviously. But on our flights this summer, we were in exit rows, so did not have a place to stow our bags down near our feet. So we had to use an overhead bin. But on other flights when we are in normal seats, I always put my bag under my feet, then I can use it as a footrest too. I am small and short though, so I know this doesn't work for everyone.

I think that people who are not traveling for business do not realize the stress involved in checking your luggage. If you are on vacation and have to wear some wrinkled thing stuffed in a backback carry on for the first day, no big deal. There is no way I can show up like that for a meeting or conference--nor am I in any one place long enough for my luggage to catch up to me if it misses the connection. My suits must be with me at all times. In September I am going from NY to MN to ID to WA to NV---all in 9 days and with one 22" Tumi vertical suiter carry on. It rolls easily down the aisles, comes in UNDER the weight restriction, and fits with no problem in the overhead. And I promise, I will not smash anyone in the head to get it out of overhead, even if I have to wait for the entire plane to disembark before I do. Small price to pay to have my business clothes in my control.

GGreen, how many question marks do I
need to make a point? I think the number is 4.
If I came across with a superior attitude then I apologize to the members
on this thread. I don't feel that way
at all.

bugs - I think that is a really good point. I suspect that the need for a business traveler to use carry on is far more compelling than for those who travel for pleasure.