Worth 10,000 Words

Picture is better, but TikTok (below) is best (WSJ graphic)

Airlines have installed larger overhead bins to accommodate more bags. However, there is an optimal way to place the bags to use the space efficiently. [bold added]

A growing number of planes have larger, drop-down bins, which fit one to two more bags each and reduce the number of gate-checked bags...But the new bin math only works if bags are placed a certain way, and the new way of doing it is another snarl in an already stressful travel journey.

The bags should be stowed on their side, not flat, as is the norm with older bins. Major U.S. airlines have plastered stickers in the back of the new bins depicting the proper position. Flight attendants on many airlines make repeated announcements about turning the bags onto their side, sometimes comparing the ideal bin layout to a plate of tacos.

Your humble blogger wasn't getting it from a verbal description ("stowed on their side"), and the "taco" or "book" metaphors improved understanding marginally.

United Airlines produced a TikTok that explains overhead-bin fitting clearly in ten (10) seconds. Can a PhD thesis be far behind?

@united Answer @im_siowei had to show our new overhead bins some love #travel #traveltiktok #luggage #comedy #unitedairlines ♬ Up and down girl - mik :-))