Carry-On vs Personal Item: Best Bag for Travel

If you are a frequent air traveler, you probably know that packing can be a bit of a hassle. With so many bag options out there, finding the right type of bag to carry all of your go-to items can feel like a challenge. You might often find yourself choosing between carry-on bags and personal items. Wondering which to pick? What’s the difference, and why does it matter?

In this article, we will answer all of your questions related to carry-on vs. personal items. We will also discuss the benefits of each type. Moreover, we have some tips for you so you can choose the right bag for your next trip. 

Understanding the Difference: Carry on vs Personal Item

Here is the deal: With so many airlines out there, baggage rules may differ. Some airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, while others may allow only one of the two. 

And this leads us to the question: what is a carry-on bag vs a personal item? 

What is a Carry-On Bag?

A carry-on bag is a piece of luggage that you can bring on the plane. It usually fits in the overhead compartment, making it perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of checking bags. This is typically a small rolling suitcase, weekender bag, backpack, duffel bag, or tote. 

Although different airlines have different regulations regarding the carry-on bag, most of them allow one carry-on bag per passenger and agree that it should fit in the overhead compartment. Moreover, you should be able to carry it without any help from the cabin crew.

What is a Personal Item?

On the other hand, a personal item is an additional smaller bag that you are allowed to bring on the airplane. It may typically be your purse, laptop bag, or backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you.

The main difference between a carryon and a personal item lies in the size:

• A personal item typically has a maximum size of  18 x 14 x 8 inches or 45 x 35 x 29 cm and should fit under the seat in front of you.
• While a carry-on typically has a maximum size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm.

It is important to remember that the size and rules regarding carry-on and personal items may vary per airline, so check with your airline before you start packing.

Features: Carry-On Bag vs Personal Item

Carry-On Bag Features:

For comfortable travels, consider these features when choosing your carry-on bags.

• Size and Weight: Most airlines have specific guidelines regarding the size and weight limit of your carry-on bags. Usually, the dimensions do not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and the weight limit is typically around 22 pounds. We recommend checking your airline regulations to ensure compliance. 
• Compartments and Organization: A good carry-on bag usually has many compartments so everything stays organized. When choosing a laptop bag, look for one that has a padded section for your laptop. Separate compartments for clothes and pockets for smaller items. 

Are you looking for a laptop bag that is spacious and has compartments to keep everything organized? Check out the EVERKI Atlas 17-inch Wheeled Laptop Backpack.

• Durability: Traveling can be rough on your luggage. Hence, it is important to choose a laptop bag made of durable material such as ballistic nylon. Consider choosing a laptop bag that offers features like reinforced corners and water-resistant coating, keeping your belongings safe during your travels and adding to the longevity of your bag.

Personal Item Features

Although personal items are comparatively smaller than your carry-on bags, they are an essential part of your travels. Here is what you should look for when choosing a personal item:

• Size and Compatibility: Personal items should generally have dimensions of around 18 x 14 x 8 inches. These dimensions ensure that it can easily fit under the seat and can accommodate all of your personal items without being too bulky. 
• Accessibility: Since the personal item is supposed to carry all of your in-flight essentials, you need to look for a bag that has many easy-to-reach compartments.
• Versatility: A good personal item should be versatile, i.e., it should double as an everyday bag. Backpacks, like the EVERKI Wheeled 420 Trolley XXL Laptop Carry-on, offer great versatility. They can be used for both travel and everyday needs.

Airline Regulations and Size Limits

But wait, there is more; understanding airline rules and regulations is essential to avoid any travel hiccups. Each airline has its own set of rules regarding personal item vs carry-on bag dimensions, so it is necessary to be well-informed. Being well-informed can save you from unnecessary stress and fees at the airport. Here is a closer look at the policies of some major airlines:

Major Airlines' Policies

• American Airlines: American Airlines allows one personal item and one carry-on bag. 

• The dimensions of the personal item should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) and should fit under the seat in front of you. Moreover, they have specific instructions regarding your personal items and clearly state that the following don’t count as personal items:

• Diaper bags (1 per child)
• Breast pump
• Small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk
• Child safety seats, strollers, and medical or mobility devices 
• You are allowed one carry-on on the flight whose total size cannot exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including the handle and wheels; it needs to fit in the overhead compartment; if it doesn’t, it will need to be checked. 

More details can be found on the American Airlines baggage policy page.

• Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines has similar guidelines for carry-on luggage vs personal items. 

• Each passenger flying with Delta can bring one carry-on bag free of charge. This could be a roll-aboard bag, duffel bag, or any similar bag that can be stored in the overhead compartment. Your carry-on should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. 
• In addition to your carry-on bag, each passenger can bring one personal item free of charge. This could be a purse, laptop bag, or any item of similar size that fits under the seat in front of you.

For more information, visit the Delta Airlines baggage policy page.

• United Airlines: 

• Delta Airlines allows you to bring one carry-on bag for free. This bag must fit in the overhead compartment and should not exceed 9 x 14 x 22 inches (23 x 35 x 56 cm), including handles and wheels. 
• In addition to the carry-on bag, you are also allowed one personal item for free, which must fit under the seat in front of you. This item should not exceed 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm). Common personal items include purses, small backpacks, and laptop bags.

Additional details are available on the United Airlines baggage policy page.

Size Checker Tools

Here’s the deal: Many airlines offer size checker tools at the airport to make sure your bag meets their requirements. These tools are typically situated near the check-in counters or boarding gates. They consist of metal frames or boxes that imitate the size limits of carry-on and personal items. If your bag fits inside these frames, then it complies with the airline's size regulations.

It's always a good idea to double-check the size of your bag before going to the airport. Here are a few tips:

• Measure at Home: Use a measuring tape to check the dimensions of your bag at home. Remember to measure, including the handle and the wheels.
• Use a Luggage Scale: it is always a good idea to weigh your bag beforehand so that it meets the weight requirements of your airline.
• Check Airline Apps: Some airlines also have a mobile app that allows you to check the size virtually, so you can enjoy a hassle-free and smart trip.

Consider using a high-quality travel bag to maximize your travel comfort and ensure compliance with airline policies. Everki's wheeled laptop briefcase and laptop travel bags are excellent options that meet the size requirements of most airlines and offer great functionality.

Maximize Your Travel Comfort

Choosing the right bag can make your traveling experience even more comfortable. Here are some tips on how you can choose the right bag for maximum travel comfort.

• Ergonomic Design

Go for bags that have an ergonomic design, such as the flight laptop backpack by Everki. This backpack has all the features often demanded by the frequent flyers. The 5-point balance strap system, cushioned back panel and wide shoulder straps help reduce the stress on your back and shoulders and make it comfortable, even when it’s fully loaded.

• Wheels and Handles

Choose a bag with wheels and handles, which can save you a lot of effort, especially during long airport walks. If you are looking for such a backpack, check out Everki's wide range of laptop carry-on roller bags.

• Security Features

While traveling, we want our personal belongings to stay safe. Hence, it is important to look for bags with lockable zippers and RFID protection to keep your valuables secure.

Say Goodbye to Overpacking Stress

Overpacking can sometimes turn your trip into a stressful ordeal. But with Everki laptop travel bags, you can pack smartly and travel with ease, knowing that you have everything you need. Here are some tips and tricks to help you pack smartly.

Create an essential packing checklist to reduce the likelihood of overpacking. Here is what you should include:

• Electronics: laptop, tablet, chargers, power banks, ear pods.
• Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the duration of the trip; always pack an extra set of clothes in case of delays. Check the weather forecast for your destination to see if you can pack accordingly. Bring at least one item you can layer to adjust to changing temperatures.
• Toiletries: Remember your essentials, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and skincare products. Use travel-size containers for liquids and ensure they comply with TSA guidelines. Also, remember to pack any prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit.
• Documents: Remember to keep your passport with you if you are traveling internationally and ensure that you have your boarding pass and the travel itinerary—details of your flights, accommodation, and transportation.
• Other Essentials: Other essentials may include snacks, a reusable water bottle, and a book or magazine to keep you entertained.

Packing Techniques

With these effective packing techniques, you can not only save space but also reduce stress. 

• Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes make packing easier, help you keep everything organized, and make it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything. Moreover, they compress your clothes and maximize space in your bag.
• Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothes not only saves space but also prevents wrinkles. Plus, it’s easier to see all your clothes when they are rolled. 
• Separate Liquids: Keep your liquids in a separate compartment or plastic bag. This helps prevent leaks and can be easily removed during security checks.
• Minimize Shoes: Don’t pack a lot of shoes. Pack one pair of comfortable walking shoes and one pair of dress shoes if needed
• Plan Ahead: Plan your outfits for each day of the trip. If you are planning to have a longer trip, consider using the laundry facility.

Choosing Between Personal Item vs Carry-On

The choice between carry-on luggage vs personal items depends on the length of your trip. Here is how you can decide. 

• Short Trips

A personal item might be enough for short one-day trips. A backpack like the Everki’s Concept 2 Backpack can hold all your essentials and can also fit comfortably under the seat.

• Longer Journeys

A carry-on is necessary for longer trips. It gives you the freedom to pack more clothes and necessities and reduces the need for checked bags. The Everki’s Wheeled 420 Trolley is an excellent choice for longer journeys.

• Business Trip

The Everki’s Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack is ideal for a three-day business trip. It has ample space for your laptop, documents, and a few changes of clothes. Plus, its wheeled design ensures that you can move around easily.

• Weekend Getaway

For a weekend getaway, the EVERKI Onyx 132 Laptop Backpack is perfect. It is a spacious bag with enough space to fit all your essentials and can easily fit under the seat.

Common Misconceptions

Many travelers misunderstand the difference between personal items vs carry-on bags. Here are some clarifications:

 

• Misconception # 1: Size Doesn't Matter

 

Passengers mostly think that size does not matter regarding personal items or carry-on bags. This is not true! Size is crucial. Overly large bags might not fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment, leading to last-minute struggles. 

 

• Misconception # 2: Any Bag Can Be a Personal Item

 

Not all bags qualify as personal items. It is essential for a personal item to fit under the seat in front of you to comply with airline regulations. This is the reason why many airlines specify the size of both a carry-on bag and a personal item.

Enhance Your Travel Experience with The Right Travel Bag:

Choosing the right travel bag can significantly improve your travel experience. Understanding the difference between carry-on vs personal items can help you make the right choice. Whether you need a wheeled laptop briefcase or a multipurpose laptop travel bag, Everki has a wide range of high-quality options suited to all your travel needs.

Ready to upgrade your travel gear? Check out Everki's top-rated carry-on bags now!

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a carry-on and a personal item?

A: A carry-on bag is larger and fits in the overhead compartment, while a personal item is smaller and fits under the seat.

Q: Is a backpack a personal item?

A: Yes, a backpack can be a personal item if it fits under the seat in front of you.

Q: What size should a personal item be?

A: A personal item should generally be around 18 x 14 x 8 inches to fit under the seat.

Q: Can I bring both a carry-on and a personal item on the plane?

A: Most airlines allow one carry-on and one personal item per passenger.

Q: What are some good carry-on bag options?

A: The Atlas Wheeled Laptop Backpack, Journey Trolley, and Wheeled 420 Trolley are excellent choices for carry-on bags.