Below, find 15 carry-on packing tips from Dengler, Brogan and other travel experts.
- Wear your largest footwear on the flight.
- Stick to a color scheme.
- Roll your clothes.
- Choose accommodations with washer and dryer access.
- Take advantage of your personal item.
- Use packing cubes.
- Try vacuum-sealed bags.
What are the rules for carry-on and personal bags?
What Is The Difference Between A Carry-On Bag And A Personal Item?
| Personal Item | Carry-On Bag |
|---|---|
| 18” x 14” x 8” size for most major airlines in the United States | 22″ x 14″ x 9″ size for most major airlines in the United States |
Can I have liquids in my personal item and carry-on?
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
How do you travel with carry-on and personal items?
Do carry-on rules apply to personal items?
American AirlinesCarry-on bags shouldn't be larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high including handles and wheels. Dimensions of personal items should not exceed 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high. There are no weight restrictions for carry-on luggage.
Can I have a backpack and a purse as a carry-on?
Technically, any piece of luggage that you “carry on” to an airplane is a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage or “hand baggage” that can fit in the overhead bin, plus a “personal item” (a smaller purse, computer bag, diaper bag, small backpack, etc.
Will a backpack count as a personal item?
In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.