What if my personal item is too big?

What if my personal item is too big? Usually, many airlines won't check every carry-on but will instead go for ones that look oversized. If your luggage does not fit in the sizer, you might have to pay a checked bag fee along with the gate checking fee and have your bag transferred to the airplane's cargo.

Can my personal item be a little bigger?

The most common personal item size limit is 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 36 x 20 cm). If your backpacks or handbags don't exceed this number, you're good. Weight limitations for personal belongings are also regulated by several airlines ranging from 10 to 25 pounds (around 4.5 to 11 kg).

Does a blanket count as a personal item?

Blankets are considered a personal item by most airlines and will be treated much in the same way as a jacket would. It is best if your blanket is compact and can fit into your carry on bag for storage if not in use. Plus, if your blanket can fit in your carry on bag it will not count as a personal item.

Can I bring a purse and a backpack on a plane?

In most cases, an airline will allow you to bring one carry-on baggage and one personal item. A personal item is normally something like a purse, laptop, backpack or camera case. Personal items should always be small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Is a backpack small enough to be a personal item?

So, yes, if your backpack is small enough that you can fit it under the seat in front of you, then it's a personal item. This designation becomes especially important when you're flying on a low-cost carrier or have booked a basic economy ticket on a larger airline.

Can you take two backpacks as a carry-on and personal item?

Generally, you're allowed one carry on and one personal item, such as a purse, suit bag, briefcase. As long as your backpacks conform to the airline size specifications for hand luggage, it's not a problem that both your carry-ons are backpacks.

How picky are airlines about carry-on size?

Unless your carry-on is extremely large, the airline employees at the gate most likely won't ask to measure it. If they'd ask each passenger to measure their carry-on, the boarding would take too long. This could cause delayed flights, which airlines don't want.

Can a backpack be too big as a personal item?

However, every airline has different restrictions for size. In most cases, your backpack should be no more than 18 x 14 x 8 inches. You should confirm with the airline to avoid penalty fees if your personal item is too large.

Do airlines really measure carry-on luggage?

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods: Height by width by depth: Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

Is Spirit Picky about personal item size?

Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?

The airlines don't choose sides when it comes to luggage. It is entirely your choice whether you'd like to carry hard-sided or soft-sided luggage for your journey. However, it is important to consider the size and weight restrictions as well as the durability of the bag when making your choice.

What is not allowed in personal item bag?

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

What is the largest personal item size?

Most domestic airlines in the United States require a personal item to be 18” x 14” x 8” or smaller in size. Personal items can include a purse, briefcase, small backpack, laptop bag, weekender or small duffel bag.

Can I bring 2 personal items on a plane?

In general, travelers are permitted to bring into the plane one personal item and one carry-on bag with them on most flights. The personal item is often a small bag, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that is able to be stowed away beneath the seat that is directly in front of you.

Will my carry-on fit under the seat?

While individual airlines have varying size and weight restrictions for carry-on, in general a carry-on bag must weigh less than 35 pounds and have dimensions no larger than 10” x 16” x 24”. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you, which will not accommodate the average carry-on bag.

Does a small crossbody count as a personal item?

Backpacks, totes, and crossbody bags are typically considered personal items too. The key to remember is it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

What if my personal item is 2 inches too big?

If your carry-on is 1-2 inches over the size limit, don't stress about it too much. Most likely, you'll be allowed to pass through without anyone saying anything. But be prepared that if you encounter a strict airline employee, you might have to check it in.

What if my personal item is one inch too big spirit?

The only time this might be worth the risk is if your personal item is only an inch or so bigger than that of the limits stated, and is soft-sided. At least if it's only slightly bigger, you should still be able to pad it down and demonstrate it fits in the sizer if required to.

Do airlines check backpack size?

If your backpack doesn't fit, you may be asked to check it at the gate.

What is the biggest backpack that counts as a personal item?

Southwest Airlines' website recommends a personal item that's no larger than 18.5 inches x 8.5 inches x 13.5 inches. Spirit Airlines allows a personal item for all travelers that must not exceed 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches, including handles and wheels.

What size backpack will fit under airplane seat?

How big of a backpack do I need for a personal item?

American Airlines advises customers to travel with personal items that are no larger than 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches. If you are flying on Delta, be sure your personal item is 17 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches or smaller.

Can I take a 22.5 inch carry-on bag?

In general, standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. If you're flying internationally, that may vary a little to 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. Remember, those dimensions include the handle, wheels and anything else that may protrude from your suitcase so don't miss them from your measurements.