The REAL real trick is this (both assume you’re ok with checking your carry on):
If you’ve got some time, check in with the front desk and ask if you can check your carry on for free. They’ll usually do it, especially if the flight is full (which is very common)
When you get to the gate, they almost always ask if anyone will voluntarily gate check their carry on. Just do it. Now, no more having to worry about finding an overhead bin, and also not having to pack around that carry on after you get off the plane
The REAL real trick is this (both assume you’re ok with checking your carry on):