What To Know
- A tote bag is a versatile option that can be used as a personal item or a carry-on bag, depending on its size.
- By following the packing tips and considering alternatives if necessary, you can ensure your messenger bag qualifies as a personal item and allows you to carry your essential belongings on board the plane.
- Yes, you can bring both a messenger bag and a carry-on bag on the plane, as long as they comply with the airline’s size and weight restrictions for personal items and carry-on luggage.
Traveling by air often involves packing your belongings into a carry-on bag. These bags must adhere to specific size and weight restrictions set by airlines. The question arises: Is a messenger bag considered a personal item? Understanding the airline’s policies regarding personal items is crucial to avoid any inconvenience during your journey.
What is a Personal Item?
A personal item is a small bag that you can carry on the plane in addition to your carry-on luggage. Personal items typically include small backpacks, purses, tote bags, or laptop bags. The dimensions and weight restrictions for personal items vary among airlines, so it’s essential to check with your specific airline before packing.
Is Messenger Bag Considered a Personal Item?
Generally, messenger bags are categorized as personal items by most airlines. They are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them suitable for carrying essential items such as your passport, boarding pass, phone, and other small personal belongings. However, it’s important to consider the size and weight limitations set by the airline to ensure your messenger bag qualifies as a personal item.
Size and Weight Restrictions for Messenger Bags
The size and weight restrictions for messenger bags vary among airlines. Here are some common guidelines:
- American Airlines: Personal items must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 centimeters) in size and 22 pounds (10 kilograms) in weight.
- Delta Air Lines: Personal items must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 centimeters) in size and 25 pounds (11 kilograms) in weight.
- United Airlines: Personal items must not exceed 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 23 centimeters) in size and 35 pounds (16 kilograms) in weight.
Packing Tips for Messenger Bags
To ensure your messenger bag meets the airline’s personal item requirements, consider the following packing tips:
- Choose a compact and lightweight messenger bag: Opt for a bag made from lightweight materials and has a slim profile to minimize its size and weight.
- Pack only essential items: Avoid packing unnecessary items to keep the weight of your messenger bag within the airline’s limits.
- Use packing cubes: Packing cubes can help you organize your belongings and maximize space within your messenger bag.
- Weigh your bag before leaving home: Weigh your messenger bag before leaving home to ensure it meets the airline’s weight restrictions.
Alternatives to Messenger Bags
If your messenger bag exceeds the airline’s personal item restrictions, consider these alternatives:
- Small backpack: A small backpack can provide ample space for your essential items while adhering to the airline’s size and weight guidelines.
- Tote bag: A tote bag is a versatile option that can be used as a personal item or a carry-on bag, depending on its size.
- Laptop bag: A laptop bag can accommodate your laptop and other personal items, making it a suitable choice for business travelers.
Takeaways:
Understanding the airline’s policies regarding personal items is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. Generally, messenger bags are considered personal items by most airlines, provided they meet the size and weight restrictions. By following the packing tips and considering alternatives if necessary, you can ensure your messenger bag qualifies as a personal item and allows you to carry your essential belongings on board the plane.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I bring a messenger bag and a carry-on bag on the plane?
A: Yes, you can bring both a messenger bag and a carry-on bag on the plane, as long as they comply with the airline’s size and weight restrictions for personal items and carry-on luggage.
Q: What items can I pack in my messenger bag?
A: You can pack essential items in your messenger bag, such as your passport, boarding pass, phone, wallet, keys, snacks, and any other small personal belongings.
Q: What are some good alternatives to a messenger bag as a personal item?
A: Some good alternatives to a messenger bag include a small backpack, tote bag, or laptop bag, depending on your personal preferences and the items you need to carry.
