my trip personal item

The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Next to a good carry-on suitcase, the right personal-item bag—what the airlines call any purse, briefcase, or small backpack—is key to having a stress-free flight.

The carry-all at your feet is the best place for your necessities: books, headphones, your phone, a laptop.

Of course, just about any bag, as long as it fits under a seat, can be a personal item, but having a great one is especially important if you’re flying basic economy, which may limit you to a single underseat item.

There’s more to great underseat luggage than its size. In this guide, we go over the features you should look for, including excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options.

From there, we look at different types of personal-item bags that have all those features but are suited to different needs: Some bags are more protective, which is good if you’re traveling with expensive or breakable items. Others are easier to carry, which is helpful if you find larger carry-ons cumbersome. And still others provide more divided compartments and extra pockets for travel necessities. We also offer a few picks to fit different situations.

The research

Why you should trust us, what is a personal-item bag, what makes a good personal-item bag, decide what type of personal-item bag you need, a wheeled bag with reinforced sides: travelpro crew versapack rolling tote, a handsome shoulder bag: waterfield air porter carry-on bag, an adaptable carry-all: the away everywhere bag, a classic tote in nylon: longchamp le pliage tote, the competition.

I’ve covered bags and luggage for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve assessed hundreds of bags, ranging from carry-on luggage to travel backpacks to duffle bags . I’ve talked to bag designers, luggage experts, and people who make a life (and sometimes a living) as world travelers. For this article, we also looked at underseat size regulations for the major domestic airlines.

At its most basic, a personal-item bag is a carry-on bag that you can stuff under the seat in front of you while on a flight—which is why it’s sometimes called underseat luggage. Although we wanted to find bags that maximize your available underseat space, airlines generally aren’t as forthcoming with their underseat dimensions as they are with their overhead-bin restrictions. And personal-item sizes, once you do find them, usually differ from one airline to another:

Air Canada : 17 by 13 by 6 inches Alaska : not specified Allegiant : 16 by 15 by 7 inches American : 18 by 14 by 8 inches Breeze : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Delta : 22 by 15 by 9 inches Frontier : 18 by 14 by 8 inches JetBlue : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Southwest : 16.25 by 13.5 by 8 inches Spirit : 18 by 14 by 8 inches United : 17 by 10 by 9 inches

After checking with 12 airlines, we found that the average size of a personal-item bag is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. If your bag isn’t rigid and comes close to these measurements, you’re probably going to be okay stuffing it under the seat in front of you. If you really want to be sure your underseat luggage will fit, the best way is to call ahead and confirm the underseat dimensions for your flight.

Similar to carry-on luggage, underseat luggage is subject to size and shape requirements. However, unlike most of the things people fly with—nearly all of which are precisely designed for airplane use—almost any small bag (your favorite backpack or tote, for instance) can work as a personal item. That said, there are a few details that separate a great personal-item bag from an ordinary one. Beyond it being just the right size, we’ve found that a personal item should have a few key design details to really stand out.

• Durability: A personal-item bag will spend a bunch of time sitting on an airplane floor, an unappealing resting place of shoe grime, spilled liquids, and lost snacks. It’s important that a bag is made of material that’s both resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.
• Organization: As more airlines begin to introduce Basic Economy tickets, which often restrict travelers to personal items only, having a bag that can mimic some of the capacity and organization of a carry-on becomes increasingly important. We prefer a variety of pockets, ideally a separate laptop compartment, and some kind of water-bottle holder.
• Multiple carrying options: Some underseat luggage pieces designed with air travel in mind have sleeves that you can slide over the rails of carry-on luggage handles. But other carrying options, like backpack straps, shoulder straps, or side handles, can also facilitate easy maneuverability.

Lots of luggage manufacturers now sell bags specifically labeled “personal items,” and some of these have useful features that you might not find in your average backpack or tote bag (more on that later). Still, if you have a bag that already works for you, stick with it. If not, check out our picks below, but also look at the recommendations in our guides to laptop backpacks (most of which will fit under a seat), to duffles (ditto), and any of the picks in our guides to packable daypacks  and tote bags . One of those might work just as well for you as a made-for-the-purpose personal item.

For this guide, of those bags specifically designed to be personal items, we looked for models from reputable brands that we’ve recommended in the past, that meet the average underseat dimensions, and that have the traits to make it a great personal-item bag. Then we chose bags that offered different features to suit multiple types of travel scenarios and preferences.

We have a wheeled-bag pick for people who prefer to roll their bag behind them. We have picks that carry like totes. Some of the bags we chose have pass-through straps to loop over the handles of your carry-on luggage . Though this last feature can help you manage the load of a suitcase and a bag, several luggage designers I’ve talked to over the years have said that one of the most common ways to break a carry-on is to rest something too heavy across the telescoping handles. Though they’re able to pull a decent weight, these handles are not designed to support large or heavy loads across their narrow frames. With this in mind, we have options for travelers who prefer pass-through straps as well as those who don’t.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote

A wheeled bag with reinforced sides.

Designed to fit under an airline seat, this diminutive version of our favorite carry-on luggage rolls along on wheels, has a long extending handle, and its reinforced sides mean it’s tougher than your average fabric tote or backpack.

Buying Options

Who it’s for: The Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote’s small squat form sits on two wheels, which makes it a remarkably maneuverable case for anyone who doesn’t prefer (or is unable) to carry their personal item on their shoulder or back. The Crew Tote also mounts well to the handles of a carry-on suitcase with a pass-through strap that’s held tight with Velcro.

Why it’s great for travel: The compact Crew Tote is large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip but still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. However, if you catch a seat with an underseat power bank or any other kind of obstruction, you won’t be able to wedge this case into place like you might be able to do with a soft bag or backpack. That said, the internal frame, wrapped in nylon fabric similar to soft-sided carry-on luggage, should endure plenty of accidental kicks and scuffs. That reinforcement is particularly useful if you’re packing delicate items, such as cameras, extra computer equipment, or fragile gifts.

We’ve recommended Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage for years in our carry-on and checked suitcases guides because of its durability, dependability, and lifetime warranty (that also protects against airline damage for the first three years). Like those other Travelpro picks, the Crew Tote meets the same standards in materials, build quality, and guarantee.

Pockets and organization: The Crew Tote has one main compartment, as well as a front pocket for small papers and tickets. The main compartment of the Crew Tote is built and organized like a small piece of carry-on luggage, with rolling wheels and internal, zippered organizational compartments, combined with some aspects useful in a personal item, such as a padded sleeve (it holds up to a 14-inch laptop) and a pass-through sleeve. The tote is also compatible with Travelpro’s customizable packing-cube system (video) , which we discuss in the Competition section of our packing cubes guide.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As with any rolling luggage, you lose a little packing space to the handle and wheel carriage. The rigid shape of the Crew Tote means there’s very little wiggle room if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you. Despite the inclusion of a small, exterior, flexible pocket—nominally for an umbrella or water bottle—we found that it was too small to be of much use for anything except a very narrow plastic water bottle.

Dimensions: 16.5 by 15.75 by 8.5 inches Weight: 6.7 pounds Capacity: 22.5 liters

Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag

A shoulder bag to organize your tech.

The versatility and toughness of a canvas-and-leather briefcase, with the organization and capacity of a small daypack.

Who it’s for: The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a high-end personal item made for air travel. But the bag truly shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. Plus, it’s good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the boardroom without raising an eyebrow.

Why it’s great for travel: The Waterfield Air Porter has a pass-through strap you can attach to a wheeled-suitcase handle, and like our other picks, the bag fits well under an airline seat. In addition to the waterproof waxed-canvas exterior, which makes the bag easy to wipe off if it comes out from under the seat looking dusty or spilled-on, Waterfield bags have waterproof exterior zippers and water-resistant interior lining. The Air Porter is built to look better with age, while also keeping your stuff safe from the elements and stress of travel. In addition to the pass-through strap, the bag has handles (so you can carry it like a briefcase) and a removable shoulder strap, which keeps it from getting caught on things while it’s stowed away.

Waterfield also makes an Air Caddy to hold your tablet and cables. If you don’t already have a tech organizer , I recommend it. The Air Caddy is as well built as the Air Porter, plus it fits nicely inside the bag and matches the overall look. (Unfortunately, Waterfield no longer offers a discount for bundling in an Air Caddy when you buy the Air Porter.)

Pockets and organization: The bag is split into two compartments. One half has a built-in padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and two pockets for tech accessories (including wires, headphones, and charging components), both of which are large enough to hold a battery pack for on-the-go charging. The other half is the larger compartment, with plenty of small interior pockets to assist you in organizing things like a few small pieces of clothing or a toiletry kit. The Air Porter also has a front expanding pocket, with magnets that keep the flap closed whether the pocket’s empty or full. It’s a great feature if you often travel with magazines and books. On either side, the Air Porter has two expanding sleeves for holding a travel umbrella and a water bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Air Porter is our priciest pick, but considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, we think it’s worth the price—this bag will last a lifetime if cared for properly. We do wish it were a little larger so you could take full advantage of the space available at your feet. Waterfield has a 30-day return policy with no restocking fee, but you will have to cover return shipping costs. Additionally, Waterfield offers a lifetime warranty for any product defects.

Dimensions: 15 by 10.25 by 4.5 inches Weight: 2.4 pounds Capacity: 11.25 liters

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all to attach to your carry-on.

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Who it’s for: The Away Everywhere Bag feels aggressively designed to offend absolutely no one. It is the true neutral of all personal items, with plenty of carrying options and as many organization options as our other picks. If you want a personal item that’s both simple and well-organized and similar to a weekend duffle bag or large tote (with enough space for a spare outfit, toiletry bag, and a laptop), this is an excellent pick.

Why it’s great for travel: The Everywhere Bag is made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, which is perfect for the floor of an airplane. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, and like most of our other picks, it includes a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, which makes it convenient to carry atop your luggage.

Pockets and organization: The interior features six slim pockets and a sleeve large enough for a 15-inch laptop. At the base of the bag, there’s a zippered waterproof pocket for an umbrella. Outside the bag is a single slim pocket, well-shaped for tickets and important travel documents. Otherwise, the bag opens into a larger interior pocket, which is enough to hold a change of clothes, a toiletry kit, and a book or magazine. If you’re flying for just an overnight trip, this could easily be the only bag you need to carry. (The bag comes in two versions: Original, which has a main zipper that extends partway down the ends of the bag, and New, which has a main zipper that extends all the way down each end of the bag, providing a larger opening.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Without any interior separation, all your gear is mashed together along with your computer and tech. There isn’t a special pocket for a water bottle, which means if you carry one, it is dangerously close to everything else.

Dimensions: 16.3 by 7.3 by 10.2 inches Weight : 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

A stylish, expandable tote.

This tote packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is perfect for the floor of an airplane: It’s easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs and kicks it might receive on a long flight.

Who it’s for: The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is great if you need an adaptable personal item that can easily double as a purse or work bag as soon as you leave the plane. Unlike many bags made to be this tough, the Longchamp is handsome and looks good enough to easily transition from travel bag to daily carry.

Why it’s great for travel: The lightweight (especially compared with leather bags) Le Pliage Tote shines as a travel bag because of its simple, packable design and practical materials. The nylon construction wipes down easily if spilled on, and you can fold it down and pack it away if you want to consolidate down to one bag on any leg of your trip.

The Le Pliage’s shoulder strap is made of rolled leather, which our tester said kept the strap from biting into their shoulder as much as unrolled leather straps can. Its main compartment is large enough to hold a laptop, sweatshirt, water bottle, and other assorted travel items. It zips shut, so you won’t lose anything even as you stuff it underneath your seat. The understated shape and design of the bag also blends in nicely with both professional and casual outfits.

Pockets and organization: There is one modest pocket on top for your phone, wallet, and keys. However, we found that even this pocket felt a touch small.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: For a bag that’s great for taking right from the plane to the office, we wished for a laptop compartment, or some other way to separate items beyond the single top pocket. In our testing, we ended up organizing the tote ourselves with bag organizers . The Le Pliage lacks a pass-through strap or slot for attaching to the handles of your carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 12.25 by 11.75 by 7.5 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds Capacity: 17 liters

Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack: The clamshell design of this backpack, a former pick in this guide, was perfect for anyone who liked to separate their gear into individual pockets and compartments. The bag was well made, shaped to fit under just about any airline seat, and warrantied for a lifetime of travel. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

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Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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The Ultimate Personal Item Packing List

Keep everything you need within arm’s reach with these tips for packing your next personal item.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

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Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

No matter what type of trip — or transportation — you’re taking, your personal item just might be the most important bag you’ll ever pack. Since it remains close by for the whole ride, you’ll want to make sure it’s got everything you need, including your absolute essentials like money, cards, I.D., phone, and medication. This is also where you’ll want to pack those comfort extras and anything you’ll want to keep within arm’s reach, like snacks, headphones, lip balm, and a power bank.

Being smart about what you pack in your personal item will not only make your trip smoother, but it can also help to assuage any anxiety when it comes to losing your bags; you’ll know you’ve got all the necessities, plus a few comforts, right at your fingertips, whether you’re stuck on a long layover, on the tarmac, or in traffic. There are a few basics that you should always pack (and you should always consider the size and weight of each item), but the extras are all up to you — though we wouldn’t be doing our due diligence if we didn’t recommend a few things.

Arrive to thrive as comfort during your travels is nothing to put in the backseat. Packing the right items in your personal item can make the journey as fabulous as the destination so you arrive rested, relaxed, and ready — whether you’re coming or going. I always like to make sure I’ve got the basics (and a little beyond) within arm’s reach because, well, why not? If you can be more comfortable, why would you settle for anything less?

Given the unpredictable state of travel timetables, we always suggest packing a water bottle , lest you get stuck on the tracks or runway with no beverage service. Plus, we’re always a lot more comfortable if we aren’t parched. Additionally, prioritize the items you know will upgrade your experience, and toss in a few extras as space and weight allow. For me, being able to exist and sleep in my seat is top on the list. For others, it might be keeping yourself entertained or maintaining your preferred beauty routine. Decide what matters most, and add those things in your personal item first.

Best Compression Socks

Away travel the compression socks.

These knee-high compression socks from Away help keep the blood circulating through your feet and legs while on flights. They’re also a quick pick-me-up for tired limbs , and come in handy when you’ve got a lengthy commute between terminals or a long layover. They are made from a fast-drying, odor-resistant material and can be worn on both legs of your trip without worrying about needing to wash them between wears — or having them stink up your bag, though they are conveniently machine-washable, too. The socks come in either solid black or navy with four sizes to fit nearly all adult-sized feet. Keeping these in your personal item means you’ll always be able to slip them on and off as needed during your travel day. Trust us, your legs will thank you.

Best Cozy Socks

Dr. scholl's low cut soothing spa socks.

Traveling can be tough, so we’re big advocates of taking the transit time to do a little pampering. We love keeping a pair of these Dr. Scholl’s Soothing Spa Socks in our personal item so we can treat our feet at a moment’s notice. These ultra-soft socks are infused with vitamin E and lavender to help moisturize your soles and relax your soul . They make a great pick to wear on flights when you want to slip off your shoes (as they look like regular fluffy socks) and can even be worn inside shoes or when padding around a hotel room later. Depending on where you shop, you’ll either get two or three grippy-bottom socks per pack, and a choice of several colors. When you’re back home, toss them in the washing machine to clean and re-fluff.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau the neck's evolution s3 (tne) neck pillow.

The Cabeau TNE S3 travel neck pillow fastens around your seat’s headrest and is designed with an extra-high pillow rim and chin strap. This extra attention to stability helps to prevent sore or kinked necks, and the chin strap also works to keep your mouth closed while you snooze. The soft, machine-washable cover is comfortable against sensitive neck and face skin while remaining breathable. We love being able to throw it in the wash and start fresh after a long, grubby trip. This thick memory foam pillow rolls up and fits into a compact carrying case, so it won’t take up all the space inside your personal item either, though it can also be hooked on the outside as well.

Best Blanket

Rumpl nanoloft travel blanket.

Prone to feeling cold on planes, trains, or buses? We’ve all seen a pic or two where an airline has passed out soiled blankets to passengers — even when they are folded and packaged inside plastic. Skip the scandal by packing your own blanket in your personal item. Rumpl’s Nanoloft Travel Blanket is made from 30-denier ripstop, post-consumer recycled polyester and has a down-like fill to keep you cozy. What’s great about this travel blanket is that it rolls up and fits into a carrying case roughly the size of a portable water bottle, making it a cinch to keep on hand. When unfolded, it measures 38 x 52 inches and weighs just 0.7 pounds. We also love the included “cape clip” that holds together two edges of the blanket so you can use your hands without worrying about the blanket slipping down while you’re wearing it, and the clip that lets you hook it on a bag’s strap instead of packing it inside.

Best Sleep Eye Mask

Manta sleep mask.

If you’re truly looking to get some quality sleep while traveling, the Manta Sleep Mask is a must for your personal items. This sleep mask straps around your head with padded eye cups that rest around the edges of your eye area to cover them. We like that this design doesn’t put pressure on the eyes and that we can open and blink our eyes normally with no interference. Plus, it won't wreck your falsies or smudge your eye makeup either. You’ll get a 100 percent light-proof blackout seal, regardless of the time of day and the comfy foam eye cups adjust so you can find the right fit for your face, eyes, and nose.

Best Earplugs

Loop quiet ear plugs for noise reduction.

Stash a pair of these Loop Quiet Earplugs in your personal item so you can grab them whenever you want to turn down the background of your travel environment without completely blocking sounds out. Unlike headphones or noise-masking earphones, these won’t add noise to take it away either. The silicone earplugs reduce sound up to 27 decibels and fit snugly inside your ear — and they look good, too. They are great for when you want to create your own space while still being somewhat cognizant of your surroundings. They’re available in seven colors and come with four ear tip sizes to find the best fit for your ears. Store them in the included keychain carrying case to keep them close by and free of debris when you’re not wearing them.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Nomader collapsible water bottle.

We love a good packing hack, and this 25-ounce collapsible water bottle from Nomader feels like a sneaky secret we have to spread. The genius water bottle has a soft silicone body that is rigid enough to keep its shape and stand upright even when empty. But, when it’s not in use, it simply rolls up and tucks into the cap, saving tons of space in any bag. It’s dishwasher safe, leak-proof, and has a solid plastic twist cap with a fat flip-top-spout mouthpiece to control water flow and prevent spills. There’s also a plastic grip ring and a strap to fasten the bottom to the cap when tucked away.

Smart and economical organization hacks will give you the most bang for your buck when it comes to fitting everything in your personal item, no sweat. I find that the best approach for organizing the contents of your personal item is to use the Russian doll technique — where you pack several smaller bags with category-specific things and then toss them in your main bag. This way, you’re keeping things you’ll use together or associate together in one place, making it a lot easier to locate and store these things in a larger personal item (and prevents you from having to dig deep for something small that may be hiding in the crevice of a zippered side pocket). It’s also a bonus hack that’ll help you keep track of your belongings as it’s easier to notice when one item of three or five is missing versus one item out of 25.

Best Belt Bag

Westbronco belt bag.

We like the Westbronco Belt Bag for its compact size, gender-neutral style, and well-organized pockets that make it easy to store and find items in a jiffy. Two main zippered compartments are large enough to hold most mobile phones, a passport, travel medicine , cables, earbuds, mini toiletries, snack bars, and more. There’s also a smaller front zippered sleeve where you can stash receipts, credit cards, your license, or notes. It’s great for grabbing and clipping on while you go through security and transportation hubs, or for snatching out of your bag and wearing comfortably during overnight journeys on public transportation. Plus, it’s made from water-resistant fabric, and features a sturdy, quick-release plastic buckle that’s accessible whether you’re wearing it on your waist or as a crossbody.

Best Toiletries Organizer

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

The 5.5 x 5.5-inch Dagne Dover Mila Small Toiletry Organizer is the perfect size for packing necessary toiletries into your personal item. We appreciate the cylindrical design, which can be identified quickly by touch among everything in your bag. Plus, it’s easy to pull out thanks to the wide top-grab handle. The customizable interior organization makes it a no-brainer — fill the whole compartment or use the removable dividers to divvy up space into six individual compartments. There’s also a mesh zip pocket and triangle carabiner clip on the interior top lid. The whole thing weighs about six ounces and has an overall interior of 2.7 liters, so it holds a lot without taking up a lot of space. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s made from water-resistant recycled materials and is vegan, too.

Best Tech Organizer

Bagsmart universal travel cable organizer bag.

If you couldn’t tell already, we’re big fans of organization that has organization, especially when space is limited. This tech organizer seemingly has a place for all your gear: there are five open storage slots with a thick elastic band (great for all your cords), five small mesh slip pockets (think memory cards, power connector bases, or even rolls of film), one larger mesh pocket (for a phone or power bank), and two tall pockets with elastic loops. All of this zips up nicely into a 1.4-inch thick, 6.7 x 9.8-inch carrying case that lays relatively flat in your personal item. This particular case comes in five solid colors, each with gold zipper accents and a stylishly textured exterior.

Best Pill Organizer

Amoos pill organizer 2 times a day.

Use this colorful, convenient weekly pill organizer to pack essential supplements and pills in your personal item. The Amoos Pill Organizer 2 Times a Day features seven translucent flip-top containers, each labeled with a different day of the week and featuring an AM and PM compartment. Take stock of interior contents with a glance, and easily differentiate days by each different color. We especially appreciate that each compartment can hold multiple larger-sized pills and that you can remove any of the daily containers and slip one in your pocket. Discretion is the key for some, so we like the nondescriptness here. Plus, it comes with a wristlet loop and has a handy interior mesh slip pocket for holding prescription information or other notes.

Having the right tech and entertainment items on hand while traveling is a simple way to make being in public feel a bit more like home. This can also help us stay connected, no matter how far away we may be.

Keeping these picks in your personal item will limit the number of times you’ll have to get up from your seat, making for a more seamless travel experience, too. There are an endless amount of options out there, so we’re just including the basics — and these are the items I personally reach for most frequently in transit from headphones to portable chargers.

Best Over-ear Headphones

Sennheiser momentum 4 wireless.

After extensive testing by the T+L team, these wireless over-ear headphones from Sennheiser snagged our overall best pick for the most comfortable earphones . We were smitten with the whopping 60-hour battery life — and that it only takes two hours to reach a full charge (or five minutes' charging for four hours) — so we know we can rely on these headphones for the long haul. They are notably lightweight, which makes them ideal for lugging around in your personal item, and we found the ear cups and headband are even comfortable if you’re sporting glasses or earrings. The sound is crisp and clear, and there are a number of built-in features, from active noise-canceling and equalizing to different sound profiles and customizable sound personalization. Plus, they fold flat and fit in a compact carrying case and are compatible with both Android and iOS.

Best Earbuds

Bose quietcomfort ultra earbuds.

As the newest iteration of the beloved Bose QuietComfort earbuds, the Ultra improved upon the second generation pair we already loved by adding more immersive audio so the music moves with you, switching between still and motion modes automatically. Of course, we still appreciate the ANC and spatial awareness filters that block out environmental noise, and that this can also be adjusted to allow background noise to filter through without distracting us from whatever we’ve got playing. You’ll get about six or so hours of battery life, depending on your chosen settings, and they work with iOS or Android, connecting quickly via Bluetooth.

Best Headphone Adapter

Twelve south airfly pro bluetooth transmitter.

If you’ve ever been on a plane faced with wireless headphones or earbuds and a corded headphone jack, this product is a personal item essential. Twelve South Airfly Pro connects wireless headphones to any device with a 3.5-mm jack whether you want to play movies on an older tablet or connect your phone to a rental car’s stereo system instead. Its slim, travel-ready profile easily slips into a bag pocket, tech organizer sleeve, or even on your keyring. One charge gets you up to 25 hours of battery life, and it’ll work within 33 feet of your target device with Android or iOS. Extra points for being able to connect up to two sets of headphones at a time.

Best Power Bank

Anker powercore 13000 portable battery.

This popular portable power bank charger has a compact design that easily slides into slip pockets and pant pockets. You’ll get a 13,000 mAh capacity that will work to charge your cell phone, iPad, or iPod several times — and two USB-A output ports means you can charge more than one item once. This is our go-to charger for those quick pick-me-up charges to get you through the travel day, but isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a heavy-duty brick charger to completely power up multiple devices. Keep in mind you’ll need to pack your own charging cords to use with this product.

Best Phone Mount

Urtry travel phone mount.

With the Urtry Travel Phone Mount, there’s no need to hand-hold your phone for long periods of screen time. The adjustable clamp mount and folding stand design allow this to be set up on flat surfaces or pinched onto the edge of what’s around, whether that’s the tray table in front of you, your suitcase handle, a bar countertop, chair backs, or even the metal adjustment bar of a car headrest. The clamp mount is sturdy, can be affixed to anything 1.5 inches thick or less, and is strong enough to hold up against bumpy rides. Best of all, it folds down into a compact 1.7 x 1.5 x 3.8 inches, making it extremely portable. We love pulling this out for a good series marathon or flick in transit and when we’re waiting at the gate or in a passenger lounge.

Best Charging Cord

Deego usb type c charger cable 15ft long.

The necessity of a long charging cord is not talked about enough. When you’re traveling, having a few extra feet of cord to work with can mean the difference of getting a boost of juice when electrical outlets are scarce or located in inconvenient locations. This Deego 15-ft Long USB-C Charging Cable will give you plenty of slack — and it’ll work with most devices, including the new iPhone 15 — so you can plug in and chill out while your device recharges. In a hurry? This cable is also fast-charge capable, as long as you have your phone’s fast-charge wall adapter. We love that the nylon-wrapped cord is tangle-free, too.

Even a short commute is enough time to show yourself a little love. Along with a few treats to nibble on, I always make sure I’ve packed things like moisturizer, lip balm, and odds and ends to help freshen up after travel; a little face spritz and a quick brush of the teeth can do wonders for refreshing the body and mind.

When it comes to keeping healthy, staying hydrated is a must, along with having a few anti-bacterial wipes (you never know when you’ll come across a suspect surface) and always, always, always, a little bit of sun protection. Again, you’ll want to keep these items to small, travel-friendly sizes so you can get past security efficiently. And while you want to keep your personal item light, you won't regret including a few key wellness travel essentials .

Best Moisturizing Sunscreen

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery spf 50.

This Dermatologica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 Moisturizer is a 3-in-1 moisturizer that tackles broad-spectrum sun protection and fights dryness and dehydration at the same time. If you forgo everything else from this section, this is one we recommend giving a spot in your personal item, no matter what.  It works on all skin types and has a non-greasy finish that can be worn alone or under makeup. It’s a pricey pick, but it’s worth its weight in gold, especially for frequent travelers who like to sit by the window. And we like this specific one because it feels more like a moisturizer than a heavy sunscreen.

Best Dental Kit

Boka fresh on the go.

Boka Fresh On the Go is a top-notch dental kit that covers all of your bases in three travel-sized products. The plastic toothbrush comes in four colors and features Binchotan-activated charcoal bristles, and we love that you can choose between three 1.3-ounce toothpaste flavors — coco ginger, ela mint, and lemon lavender. Each flavor swaps out fluoride for nano-hydroxyapatite to help strengthen and remineralize your teeth. But the real clincher in this set is the jar of 90-count probiotic mouthwash tablets. Just pop one in your mouth and chew — no extra water needed — to freshen your breath and add some helpful probiotics to your mouth’s busy biome.

Best Lotion

Burt’s bees milk and honey body lotion.

This fast-absorbing body and hand lotion from Burt’s Bees is our go-to for soothing dry skin while traveling. Coconut and grapeseed oils pair up with milk and honey to deliver lasting moisture, and it goes on easily without feeling greasy with a mild odor that won’t cause seatmates to gripe. For travelers who are just as cognizant of what they put on their bodies as what goes in, this lotion is 98 percent natural, one of our favorite things about this brand. And the 2.5-ounce size is ideal for popping inside a small toiletry case inside your personal item, or the bag itself, so it’s close by.

Best Lip Balm

Goop beauty clean nourishing lip balm.

Goop Beauty Clean Nourishing Lip Balm is a lip-saver with its soft and silky moisturizing base containing shea butter, plus coconut, jojoba, argan, sunflower, and castor seed oils. It’s dermatologist-approved, and even has a slight scent that makes it feel extra lush. Presented in a sleek yet casual rose gold tube, this balm looks as good as it makes your lips feel, even if they’re already chapped or dry when you first apply. Go with clear for a low-key look, or snag one of the four sheer tints for a barely-there bump of color.

Best Anti-bacterial Wipes

Wet ones sensitive skin hand and face wipes.

These travel packs of Wet Ones Sensitive Skin Hand and Face Wipes are gentle enough to use on delicate baby’s skin for a quick wipe down while still being effective when used on grubby surfaces. We may be out of the thick of the pandemic, but that doesn’t mean keeping a pack of anti-bacterial wipes in your personal item won’t come in handy now and then (as we’ve all seen how in frequently surfaces in public spaces are cleaned ). We like these because they are hypoallergenic and unscented, and the packaging is resealable, so you can take only what you need and feel confident in placing them back in your bag without having them dry out or leak.

Best Face Mist

Josh rosebrook face mist hydrating spray.

Don’t feel like applying moisturizing face lotion throughout your journey? Spray two pumps of this Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator facial mist to give your skin a little drink. Not only does this non-aerosol spray mean you won’t have to fuss with cleaning your hands before or after moisturizing, but you’ll also be fortifying your skin with botanicals to help reduce water loss and skin irritation. It also works as a base layer amplifier for any serums or creams you put on top, making your products work harder and better. This convenient 3.4-ounce travel size fits easily into a makeup organizer or your bag’s pockets, too.

What is the best way to pack a personal item?

Pack your personal item in a way that keeps everything as accessible as possible so you can limit the number of times you’ll have to physically remove your personal item from wherever it’s being stored during your trip. This can mean grouping like-minded things together (like tech cords and adapters), using a bag with easily identifiable interior compartments, or packing several smaller items inside a single, easily grabbable organizer bag so you won’t have to fish for them. You may also want to consider packing anything you know you’ll frequently access (like earbuds or your phone) in a separate bag that will comfortably fit in your lap or somewhere within easy reach.

Keep in mind that many forms of transportation have rules about what you can bring in a personal item. Always look up any possible restrictions and remember it’s key to keep things travel-sized, not just for passing through places like TSA but to save on the overall available space and weight of this bag as well.

What is the best size for a personal item?

Your personal item should be about the size of a backpack — this way, it’ll almost always fit under the seat in front of you, in a storage compartment above the seat, or on your shoulder or back without issue. Regardless of your mode of travel, be sure to check if you’re even allowed a personal item and, if so, if there are any measurements or sizes you’ll need to follow . Remember not to overpack your personal item — it’s not a carry-on — because you’ll have to schlep it around during transit.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven relied on her decades of travel experience and the ghosts of all the personal items she hasn’t packed along the way. She then did hours of research to find the top products in each category, relying heavily on Travel +Leisure -tested best picks.

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How many bags can I bring?

We recommend that you check the terms that apply to hand luggage and checked baggage on the airline's website. Note that some airlines charge a fee for baggage.

• Smart Living

16 Personal-Item Carry-on Bags For Stylish and Hassle-Free Flying

Updated on 4/9/2024 at 5:33 PM

There's nothing like going on a quick weekend trip to explore other cities or taking the time to visit friends and family you haven't seen in a while. However, the costs of flying are skyrocketing, suitcases are getting lost, and airlines are charging a pretty penny for carry-on luggage and checked bags. The hunt for cheap flights and convenient travel is an ongoing challenge. One way to keep travel costs as low as possible: utilizing the personal-item carry-on bag. The personal-item bag is a must when you fly a no-frills airline such as Frontier or Spirit Airlines, or buy a basic economy seat for domestic travel, since it's the only bag you can bring that's free of extra costs. These functional bags also make long-haul flights easier with convenient access to all your necessities.

What Qualifies as a Personal-Item Bag?

A personal-item bag can be a functional backpack, a stylish tote bag , a spacious diaper bag , a laptop or work bag , or anything small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Each airline has different qualifications on sizes and proportions, so we've listed a few common ones below:

• Spirit: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Frontier: 8" depth x 18" width x 14" height
• United: 9" depth x 10" width x 17" height
• Delta: 9" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• American: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Southwest: 8.5" depth x 13.5" width x 18.5" height
• JetBlue: 8" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• Allegiant: 7" depth x 15" width x 16" height

A quality personal-item bag has enough room for all your travel essentials and necessities while being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you according to the airline guidelines. Going on a quick weekend getaway? Your go-to personal-item bag should fit all your vacation must haves, including a few outfits, an extra pair of shoes, makeup, skin-care, and toiletries, necessary chargers and cords, and maybe even a flat iron and a reusable water bottle. There are several stylish and quality personal-item bags on the market that take all this into consideration, so you can travel smarter. Ahead, we curated the best personal item bags for planes, including tried and tested picks from our editors, like the Béis Mini Weekender Bag .

Ready to hit "buy" on a new one for yourself? Ahead, a selection of the best personal carry-on bags for flying.

The Best Personal-Item Carry-on Bag

Béis The Mini Weekender ($98)

The Béis The Mini Weekender is the smaller version of the bestselling Weekender Bag , which is also an editor favorite. It can be used as an everyday tote, but it's also perfect for overnight trips or as a personal item on flights. "It is ideal for any traveler, whether you're a frequent flyer or someone who goes on the occasional vacation. . . . The bag fits the right amount of clothing and necessities for a three-day trip, including a few extra outfits if you pack smart," our editor says.

This personal item bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; a bottom compartment for shoes, hair tools, and toiletries; and a trolley pass-through sleeve. Plus, the inside has a large zip pocket and two small slip pockets. Our editor points out, "another clever feature is the expandable, clamshell-like zip-top opening of the top compartment. The bag opens up quite wide, so you can easily see and access your stuff and take out your electronics . . . for security." It has a top handle and a padded longer strap. It comes in eight colors, including beige, black, navy, gray, olive green, maple brown, pink, and slate light blue. Read our in-depth review of the Beis Mini Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 16" height x 16" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag That's Foldable

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag ($14)

The Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is a foldable and affordable travel option that comes in a ton of different colors and prints. It has two top-handle carrying straps, a detachable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve, and an external zipper pocket. The bag is made from a thick waterproof material that can hold its shape. Plus, it's a bestseller on Amazon.

Dimensions: 13" height x 18" width x 6.3" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Bag

Paravel Weekender Bag ($295)

The Paravel Weekender Bag is an editor-backed pick, with her stating that "even though the bag itself appears compact, it actually has a ton of space inside. I can fit electronics, multiple cosmetic bags, and any other extras I want readily available with plenty of space to spare." It can fit around two days worth of clothes (three if you're smart about packing), toiletries, and a 15-inch laptop. Paravel's Weekender Bag has a wide shoulder strap that lets you carry it with ease and a trolley sleeve that lets you carry it on top of your rolling luggage. It has a secure zip-top closure and several slip and zippered pockets on the inside.

The eco-friendly weekender is made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. Plus, it's made with an ecocraft canvas that is spill proof and durable. You can personalize it with a monogram. Read our in-depth review of the Paravel Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 15" height x 15" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag Travel Backpack

Lubardy Travel Backpack ($30, originally $32)

If you're looking for a durable backpack you can use for weekend trips, the Lubardy Travel Backpack is a great option and comes with three packing cubes. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit a few outfits and a pair of shoes. Plus, it has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket for toiletries and laundry, and a side pocket for a water bottle or an umbrella. The zippers are sturdy and reinforced, so you can keep squishing items in without the bag exploding. The waterproof and durable backpack comes in seven colors.

Dimensions: 20" height x 13" width x 8"depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag ($40)

The Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag is a stylish, easy-to-carry weekender bag that comes with its own shoe compartment. It is made from a durable canvas fabric with faux-leather accents and comes equipped with six pockets and one main compartment. Plus, you get two additional toiletry bags to keep things organized. It can fit up to two to four days' worth of essentials. The affordable weekender bag comes in seven colors as well.

Dimensions: 13" height x 19" width x 9.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag ($180)

Ideal for those who prioritize organization and efficient packing, the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag has a unique and functional design that opens like a suitcase. This opens down the middle like a suitcase, so you can have each side lay flat for easy packing. The bento-inspired bag has plenty of exterior and interior compartments to keep things organized, including a tech pouch, a padded laptop sleeve, a toiletry pouch, a shoe bag, two internal compartments, an external wallet/phone pocket, and an external pocket for water bottles. Plus, it features an adjustable side strap, top handles, a convertible-trolley sleeve pocket, and a lightweight construction. This bag comes in three contemporary colorways, and is made from weather-resistant nylon and LWG-certified leather.

Our editors says that she loves that it has two security-friendly pockets that can be accessed from the top so she doesn't have to fumble through TSA. "After packing my computer, tablet, chargers, and headphones, I was able to include two changes of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes all inside the bag, which is pretty impressive for the size," she says. Check our her review of the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag here .

Dimensions: 10" height x 17" width x 8" depth

Best Stylish Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

If you're in the market for something durable, sleek, and glam, Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage is designed to fit underneath most airplane seats. Don't believe us? We put it to the test in this Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage review . One of our editors says, "it's quite literally a mini version of a carry-on bag; it has all the convenience of a stylish and functional suitcase, just sliced in half. . . . Although it may look small, it can fit a good amount of stuff for a three or four-day weekend."

The best part of this bag is that it's equipped with 360-degree spinner wheels and a collapsible luggage handle, so you can get through security and to your gate without having to carry the actual weight of your bag. This mini carry-on bag is a dream for organization; it opens upright and has a divider with multiple pockets. It comes in gold, rose gold, silver, copper, and black.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 9" depth

Best Durable Personal-Item Travel Backpack

Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack 25L ($158)

If you're looking for something durable, the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack is an editor-backed pick that's not only personal-item approved, but also hiking approved. It's made from a water-repellent fabric, so spills, scuffs, and weather won't be an issue. The versatile backpack has plenty of storage space with pockets galore, including exterior pockets for water bottles and umbrellas, interior pockets that can help keep dirty and clean clothes separate, adjustable exterior straps that can hold a jacket or a yoga mat, a padded laptop sleeve, and it even has a trolley sleeve. The drawstring opening is ideal for easy access, but it's kept secure with the buckle closures.

One editor put it to the test and says, "My typical backpack load includes two books, a small notebook, a laptop, a bag of chargers, a case of toiletries, a pouch of miscellaneous personal-care items, a water bottle, an extra jacket, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, and a spare wallet. And because the main compartment closes with a drawstring, you can really push the limits of the amount of stuff you can cram in. . . . After getting caught in a surprise downpour while on top of a mountain in Brasov, Romania, I was soaked — but everything inside my backpack was perfectly dry." Read her in-depth review of the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack for more.

Dimensions: 14.2" height x 20.1" width x 6.1" depth

Best Personal-Item Duffle Bag

Béis The Commuter Duffle ($138)

Although we're huge fans of the bestselling Béis Mini Weekender Bag, its Commuter Duffle is a worthy competitor. It has a capacity of 24.2 liters, and comes in two classic colors, black and beige. The duffle bag is designed for the busybody who's constantly on the go; it has two slip pockets on either side for water bottles or umbrellas and a zipper pocket in the front. Plus, the interior has the perfect blend of spaciousness and organization. Not only is there a padded laptop pocket, but also four elastic pockets (two of which are mesh), as well as a zipper pocket.

This bag maintains is sleek silhouette and crisp look with five metal feet that let it stand on its own. It's made from a water resistant nylon, but it has vegan leather top handles and a padded leather adjustable strap.

One of our editors put it to test during a weekend trip to Sedona and says that she was able to fit "seven outfits, two pairs of shoes, my toiletry bag, portable steamer, and more." Beyond the ample packing space, she loves how sleek and stylish the bag looks and that it's lightweight. Read more about The Commuter Duffle in our review of the Béis Commuter collection .

Dimensions: 12" height x 21.5" width x 9" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage ($53)

The TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage is perfect for the traveler on the go. For starters, unlike most weekender bags and duffles, this one has wheels. This bag has a USB port that lets you attach a power bank to it, so you can charge your phone and laptop in-flight or at the gate. It's spacious on the inside with plenty of pockets and sections to stay organized. You can carry this with its top handle, wear it like a backpack, or roll it. This under-seat carry-on comes in a few other colors, like navy blue, brown, and purple.

Dimensions: 15" height x 14" wide x 8.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Travel Backpack For Organization

Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack ($120)

The Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack from Target looks and acts like a backpack from the outside, but functions like a suitcase internally. It has a zip-open, flat-lay design that opens up like a carry-on, so you can pack everything neatly. The backpack has three mesh compartments for organizing your clothes, a laptop compartment that's padded, and plenty of additional pockets to store all your other necessities. This is perfect for anyone who wants more balanced support for their back and shoulders, rather than relying on a crossbody or top handle design. It also has a useful trolley strap that doubles as an external pocket when not in use. It's made with a durable, water-resistant fabric as well.

Dimensions: 21" height x 14" width x 8.75" depth.

Best Personal-Item Bag With a Clamshell Opening

Away Overnight Bag ($225)

Away's The Overnight Bag is a water-resistant, durable, sleek option that's perfect for fitting a few outfits, toiletries, and your tech. It has a 15-inch laptop pocket, several interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized, and a useful trolley sleeve. It has an easy-access clamshell opening and a detachable shoulder strap as well. It comes in five colors, and you even can personalize it.

Dimensions: 11" height x 17.7" width x 9" depth

You can also consider getting the The Weekender Bag ($245) if you need more space; however, its dimensions may exceed some airline's requirements. The larger option has a 9.4-inch depth, 20.9-inch width, and 11.8-inch height.

The Overnight Bag can fit around two to three outfits with a 28 liter capacity, whereas The Weekender Bag can fit three to four outfits with a 38 liter capacity.

Best Expandable Personal-Item Bag

Dagne Dover 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag ($215)

Dagne Dover's 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag is soft and durable, perfect for squishing under a seat. It may look compact at first, but it has an expandable design that can fit several outfits, slim shoes and hair tools, and more. It comes with plenty of accessories and compartments that will keep your travel essentials organized, like a laptop sleeve, a shoe/laundry bag, and a removable mesh pouch for your chargers and cords. There's even an easy-access pocket perfect for your phone, passport, or boarding pass. Plus, it has a crossbody strap, top handles, and two side pockets that are perfect for water bottles and shoes. It comes in four colors, including gray, muted purple, camel tan, and a dark moss green.

Dimensions: 10.5" height x 17" width x 8.5" depth

Best Leather Personal-Item Bag

Cuyana Leather Weekender ($548)

Cuyana's Leather Weekender is perfect for those who need to keep things compartmentalized. It's equipped with three compartments, including two external zip compartments that can fit up to a 16-inch laptop. The main compartment has two large slip pockets that are great for storing shoes, hair tools, and other necessities. The bag even has a trolley sleeve, so you can easily secure it to your carry-on bag. Carry this in your hand, over your shoulder, or as a crossbody with its adjustable removable strap. It comes in a neutral brown shade and black.

Besides its functionalities, this gorgeous weekender bag is crafted from Italian leather, making it a stylish and investment-worthy piece that screams quiet luxury.

Dimensions: 14.5" height x 22.5" width x 7" depth

Looking for something smaller? You can get the Overnight Bag, which is the same silhouette with a 5.5-inch depth, a 19-inch width, and a 13-inch height.

Best Hardshell Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage doesn't compromise on style or functionality. This personal-item carry-on bag has a polycarbonate hard-shell exterior that can withstand scuffs and bumps. The cool thing with this bag is that it opens upright, so you'll be able to easily see and access everything in your bag. It has an interior divider with pockets and compression straps to keep your over-packed bag organized. It has a TSA-accepted lock, a collapsible luggage handle, and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a smooth, upright roll. Choose between a four colors. And, yes, this small rolling bag fits beneath most airline seats.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 8.5" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Tote Bag

Paravel Medium Cabana Tote ($175)

Embrace vacation mode with this stylish and fun Paravel Medium Cabana Tote. It's made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. The bag is made with an ecocraft canvas that's spill-proof and quite durable. It has several slip and zippered pockets on the inside for plenty of organization. It has a secure zip-top closure, top handles, and an adjustable crossbody strap. It has a sturdy base that will keep it upright, so you can easily access your must haves. Plus, you can personalize it with a monogram, and it comes in four colors.

If you need something bigger, the larger cabana tote ($185) is more roomy, with a 23.75-inch length, 14.5-inch width, and 7.5-inch depth.

Dimensions: 12" height x 18" width x 7.5" depth

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.

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Carry-On and Personal Item Size Limits for 32 Major Airlines

Jamie Ditaranto

Jamie Ditaranto is a traveler in a love triangle with writing and photography. Follow the drama on Twitter @jamieditaranto and Instagram @jamieditaranto .

Ditaranto joined SmarterTravel in 2015. She loves ecotourism, cities with history, and discovering local hangouts. Though she likes all the continents equally, she holds a special place in her heart for rainy little islands.

Her work has also appeared online at USA Today, Huffington Post, Business Insider, and other publications. You can check out her photography on her website .

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "My instant camera comes in handy for giving instant gifts to new friends."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Befriending penguins in Antarctica."

Travel Motto : "You have to get the hard places out of the way first."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "On short flights, the window. For long flights, the aisle."

Email Jamie at [email protected] .

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Every frequent traveler has seen passengers rolling their massive carry-ons and lugging equally large bags and backpacks onto the plane as their “personal item.” So exactly how big can your carry-on and personal item be? The general rule about personal item size is that your bag must fit under the seat in front of you, though some airlines do specify maximum dimensions. Meanwhile, airlines have a wide variety of carry-on size restrictions. Many airlines, especially outside the U.S., also have weight limits for carry-on bags and personal items.

Carry-On vs. Personal Item: What You Need to Know About Baggage Policies

For years, personal items have flown mostly under the radar, but in the new world of basic economy—in which airlines are offering cheaper base fares but charging for carry-ons—more and more people will be traveling with nothing but a personal item.

When you’re traveling on the cheap and trying to pack as much as possible into a very limited amount of space, knowing the rules is vital. Here’s a look at the personal item and carry-on size limits for 10 major U.S. airlines and 22 top international carriers.

A few important notes:

• The dimensions below reflect length, height, and width, and include wheels and handles.
• Personal item and carry-on dimensions listed below reflect the size limits for flyers in economy class. (Airlines often have more generous baggage allowances for flyers in first or business class.)
• If you’re traveling on a codeshare flight, you’ll need to check the baggage restrictions for the airline operating the flight—not necessarily the airline through which you booked.
• On shorter trips flown on smaller planes, even regulation-size carry-ons may need to be gate-checked. (In such cases, you shouldn’t be charged the normal checked bag fee.)
• Because carriers can change their rules at any time, it’s a good idea to double-check before each trip.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Alaska flights, your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The following items may be substituted for your carry-on bag even if they’re over the limit: paintings, small musical instruments, art/advertising portfolios, human organs, fishing poles, and “delicate scientific equipment.”

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner

Alaska Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items are only defined as a “purse, briefcase, or laptop computer,” and the airline notes that either your carry-on or personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Jackets, hats, umbrellas, personal pillows, food, child safety seats, strollers, service animals, medications, assistive/medical devices, and a “reasonable amount of reading material” do not count toward your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Mancro Laptop Backpack

Allegiant Carry-on Size Limit

On Allegiant , your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (and you’ll have to pay for it—anywhere from $15 to $45 at the time of booking, $50 at the counter, or up to $75 at the gate).

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Theorym 22x14x9 Spinner

Allegiant Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item on Allegiant is free and may measure up to 16 x 15 x 7 inches. Examples of personal items include purses, briefcases, and small backpacks. In addition, you may bring assistive devices, strollers, a coat, a small umbrella, a diaper bag, and food to eat during the flight.

Recommended personal item: AOTIAN Mini Nylon Backpack

The Best Hardside Luggage for Any Traveler

American Airlines

American Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

American limits carry-on bags to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, although soft-sided garment bags up to a total of 51 inches (length + width + height) are also acceptable. Note that musical instruments and pets will count as a carry-on item.

Recommended carry-on: Elevation Plus 22x14x9 Spinner

American Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Your American Airlines personal item should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Potentially larger items that don’t count as personal items include diaper bags, child safety seats, and medical and mobility devices; these may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Delta Carry-on Size Limit

The maximum carry-on size on Delta is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or a total of 45 inches combined. There’s no carry-on weight limit except at select Asian airports, where the maximum weight ranges from 15 to 22 pounds.

Recommended carry-on: Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Delta Personal Item Size Limit

Delta does not give size dimensions for personal items, but says they should be approximately the size of a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or diaper bag. Things that can be brought aboard in addition to your personal item include jackets, umbrellas, food and drinks purchased in the terminal, strollers, child seats, and medical and mobility devices.

Recommended personal item: CAMTOP Weekend Overnight Bag

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Frontier Carry-on Size Limit

Frontier permits carry-on bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches and 35 pounds. You’ll need to pay for your carry-on bag unless you’re an Elite flyer.

Recommended carry-on: AmazonBasics 20″ Hardside Spinner Luggage

Frontier Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you. All flyers can bring a personal item for free. Coats, diaper bags, canes, assistive devices, and foot rugs “for use during prayer” can all be brought aboard as additional free items.

Recommended personal item: Samsonite Silhouette 17 Wheeled Underseater

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Hawaiian Airlines , your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 25 pounds.

Hawaiian Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

The airline doesn’t offer specific dimensions, but notes that your personal item should be a “laptop bag, briefcase, purse, or backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you.”

Recommended personal item: Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Chevron 15″ Laptop Tote

5 Travel Neck Pillows That Actually Work

JetBlue Carry-on Size Limit

On JetBlue , your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The airline does not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.

JetBlue Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items should not exceed 17 x 13 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat. You can also bring duty-free items (in “a reasonable and limited amount”), a diaper bag, assistive devices, a coat, an umbrella, and/or an infant car seat without eating into your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Briggs & Riley Expandable Cabin Bag

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Carry-on Size Limit

Southwest has a more generous carry-on limit than most U.S. airlines, allowing bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. If you’re bringing a pet, its carrier will count as either your carry-on or personal item.

Southwest Personal Item Size Limit

On Southwest, your personal item must be 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches or less, and fit under the seat in front of you. Assistive/mobility devices, jackets, canes, umbrellas, and food to eat during the flight all count as extras that you can bring in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Ronyes Unisex College Bag

Would You Pay Extra for a Kid-Free Flight?

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

Spirit has a slightly more generous size limit for its carry-ons than most other U.S. airlines, with a maximum of 22 x 18 x 10 inches. The catch, though, is that you’ll have to pay extra to bring anything beyond a personal item.

Recommended carry-on: eBags TLS Mother Lode Mini 21″ Wheeled Carry-on Duffel

Spirit Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, large enough to include a sizable purse or smaller backpack.

Recommended personal item: Lululemon Commuter Multi-Wear Backpack

United Airlines

United Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On United , the maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Note, however, that if you’re traveling in basic economy, you may only bring a personal item. (There are a few exceptions: those traveling on transatlantic flights, and Premier members or primary card members using qualifying MileagePlus credit cards.)

Recommended carry-on:

United Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

United personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and may not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Items such as jackets, umbrellas, diaper bags, food purchased in the airport, assistive devices, child safety seats, cameras, and reading material may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Herschel Nova Backpack

8 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About TSA PreCheck & Global Entry

Carry-on and Personal Item Size Limits on International Airlines

The chart below features the maximum sizes for carry-on bags and personal items on 22 major international airlines. Note that baggage restrictions may vary depending on your specific route. Some measurements are approximate, having been converted from centimeters into inches or from kilograms into pounds.

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Jamie Ditaranto is a writer and photographer who is always looking for her next adventure. Follow her on Twitter  @jamieditaranto.

Editor’s note: Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Everything You Need to Fly Personal-Item-Only

The best way to travel cheaply these days is to pack light. That’s because in the majority of cases, a basic airfare “just covers getting on the plane,” says Jasmine Anderson , travel agent and co-host of the podcast Travel Fly Sexy . “Everything else is additional.” With full-size carry-on bags an optional expense, what remains free for now is each passenger’s “personal item,” which can theoretically be anything that’s TSA-approved and small enough to fit under the seat in front of them. For short trips on a budget, “you can absolutely travel with just a personal-item bag,” says travel creator Jessica Ufuoma . It’ll potentially make for a more enjoyable vacation: “You might be arriving on a morning flight and want to explore as soon as you arrive,” says Daniel Burnham, senior product-operations specialist at Going . “You can’t do that with a trolley full of bags in tow.”

No-frills carriers like Frontier and Spirit are strictest on personal-item-size bags, with Frontier even offering commission to staff members who charge passengers extra luggage fees at the gate. To avoid being pulled aside as you board, make sure your bag’s dimensions don’t exceed 8 x 18 x 14 inches and that it’s not too overstuffed to slide into a baggage sizer. Passengers can technically bring only one bag aboard as their personal item, which means that you might be questioned for wearing a cross-body in addition to your backpack. To get around this, try buying a snack at the gate, suggests Travel Fly Sexy co-host Natasha Wilson . “Then place your purse in that plastic shopping bag and smuggle it onto the plane.”

Best personal-item bags

You’ll have to leave your Away carry-on at home when traveling with a personal-item-only, but that doesn’t mean hard luggage is completely out of the question. Anderson, Wilson, and packing expert Lauren Kelly all praise this tiny suitcase with snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of baggage sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff — you can also just stash them in your pockets.

When packing light, Kelly tends to swap between the Take Off suitcase above and this backpack, which she recommends because the brand “also focuses on personal-item-size bags only — it doesn’t even make bigger bags.” Unlike a hard suitcase, the Underseat Pro backpack has side pockets for easy access to essential items and can obviously be worn on the shoulders to keep your hands free. Like the Take Off, it meets personal-item-sizing requirements exactly, measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches. It also features a luggage-handle sleeve for when you’re traveling with an additional suitcase.

Calpak’s durable bags were highly regarded among travel experts I spoke with. Measuring 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches, the brand’s Terra backpack helps maximize packing space while meeting dimension requirements, and its rectangular shape also fits cleanly into baggage sizers. If you’ve overpacked, external compression straps can help you squash things down a bit, says Ufuoma. And the clamshell zip means this “nice-looking and durable” bag “flips out like a suitcase, which makes it easier to use packing cubes.”

Calpak’s slightly smaller Luka shoulder bag measures 12 x 16 x 7 inches and features a hidden shoe compartment as well as useful external pockets that are big enough for a small water bottle or book. As above, this bag’s rectangular shape is designed to slide smugly into baggage sizers. Among travelers in the know, it’s “popular for good reason,” says Ufuoma. “It’s very roomy, and it just works.”

For a sleeker look, Ufuoma recommends this vegan leather Monos backpack. “There’s space for a laptop, there’s a compartment in the front for skin care and makeup, and in the main area you can fit at least four tops and two pairs of pants,” she says. “So, including what you wear on the plane, that means you’ll have three pairs of pants with you on the trip.” The backpack has a sleeve on the back to slide onto your carry-on luggage handle, should you be embarking on any longer trips in the future. For short ones, it measures 11.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches, complying with personal-item standards.

Dagne Dover’s Landon bag is “an absolute gem and a lifesaver,” says Jessica Morrobel of Traveling With Jessica . Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. She likes that it has “all the pockets built in, so I can be very organized,” and that the bag slips over her luggage handle when she’s on longer trips. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules. Measuring 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches, it’s more compact than other bags here, although the flexible neoprene fabric allows for overpacking.

Another stylish option for weekend trips is this thoughtfully designed backpack with slightly rounder edges than the Underseat Pro above, making it appropriate for day hiking and office commuting. Travel creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much she can fit in this 18 x 12 x 6 inch bag. “You can definitely fit everything you need for two nights,” she says. “It’s wildly spacious, like a black hole almost.”

Best personal-item packing cubes and organizers

The 12 travel experts I spoke with were divided on the issue of packing cubes, especially as most personal items are only big enough to fit one or two. They also warned that packing cubes sometimes give people the confidence to overpack clothing they don’t technically need on short trips. The consensus was that if you do use cubes, compressive ones like these from Calpak are ideal. Ufuoma says they’re made from a material that’s “thick and durable — your clothes will stay where you put them.”

Jewels Rhode of Travel With Jewels says she’s had no issue with this more affordable full set of compression cubes that also has options for a longer trip.

While travel TikTok has popularized the concept of packing 30 outfits into a carry-on using vacuum storage bags, none of the experts I spoke with recommended using this method. “Please don’t listen to the influencers,” says Kelly. “I do a lot of trips where I move from place to place, and if I had to vacuum everything every time? Just no.” Anderson and Wilson do, however, recommend these small space-saver bags that don’t require a vacuum and are “like Ziplocs for clothes.” As Wilson explains, “Several of them can fit inside packing cubes — so you can organize your outfits but keep them all in one cube.”

“I can’t stress enough how essential it is to have an organizational pouch that can neatly hold my cables and smaller electronic gadgets,” says Morrobel. She says that this one “fits the bill perfectly — it’s water-resistant and fits comfortably inside any bag.”

Best personal-item laundry products

“If you want to be minimalist in your packing, think about doing laundry every two days or so,” says Nastro. “Especially for a week, it’s totally doable.” Because they are small and essentially weightless, she takes along a few of these instant laundry sheets that dissolve in water: “And now I don’t feel worried about packing an outfit for every single day.”

When rolling your clothes up tightly or using compression cubes, there’s a high chance they’ll emerge from your bag looking a little rumpled. If this is a serious concern, Ufuoma suggests bringing along a small bottle of Downy’s wrinkle releaser so that you don’t have to locate a steamer or iron on the ground.

Alternatively, “you actually can fit a steamer in a personal item,” Wilson insists. She likes this folding one, but admits that the best hack is still probably “to pack fabrics where you don’t have to worry about wrinkles.”

Best personal-item accessories

Anderson and Wilson both recommend this stuffable travel pillow as a way of sneaking extra clothes onto the plane. “It’s a great hack because you can fit extra T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear into something that no one is looking at you sideways for because it’s a pillow,” says Wilson.

Water bottles are both a travel essential and a complete packing nightmare, which is why we’ve been recommending this “ Capri Sun for adults ” since 2020. When empty, just roll it up and put it in your pocket — or clip it to the exterior of your bag with the included carabiner.

A packable nylon tote bag can hold dirty laundry, wet beach clothes, or groceries. Going’s senior product designer, Pratika Appaiah, “never travels without” this Baggu one, which she says “can even be a picnic blanket for one if I go to a park, because it’s waterproof.”

Weight typically isn’t a concern with personal-item bags, especially on domestic airlines. “But for international travel, especially in Europe, they definitely do care,” says travel agent and content creator Adrie Smith . Because she “never wants to be the person unpacking their stuff on the airport floor,” she always makes sure to bring along a travel scale. Burnham agrees that one of these is “an excellent investment.”

Wilson says that this compact three-in-one wireless charger “has significantly decreased the number of cords and gadgets I have to take with me.” It can simultaneously charge an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods case.

Best personal-item toiletries

A common piece of advice among the experts I spoke with was that even “travel-size” miniature toiletries are too large to pack into a personal-item bag. “It’s a really common mistake that I see people make,” says Kelly. “People will bring a lot of big ‘travel-size’ things in a huge toiletries bag. That will take up a quarter of your luggage — it ends up being as big as a packing cube.” Instead, she recommends decanting a small amount of product into these miniature Cadence capsules, which can be slipped anywhere in your bag and are completely leakproof.

Small shampoo and soap bars are also a great packing solution, says Appaiah. She likes Lush’s bar shampoo because it lasts for months.

Most Dopp kits don’t pack flat, which makes them tricky to tesselate with your packing cubes, especially in a small bag. One of the most compact solutions surprisingly comes from luxury skin-care brand Aesop, says Wright, who purchases this Kyoto travel kit on a yearly basis. “I can take it off the shelf and have everything I need,” she explains. “It all fits in this small, flat case. When I’m really traveling light, I just bring the set and don’t fuss.”

Best clothes to pack in a personal-item

When packing light, make sure all your tops and bottoms can be mixed and matched. “If you can, stick to a color scheme,” advises Ufuoma. “Take neutral colors that go well with each other.” A comfortable pair of pants that can be worn both out to dinner and on the plane is a great starting point. Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards loves these stretchy flares from Anne Mashburn, which she says are both cheaper and more durable than High Sport’s popular kick pants. “I’ll wear them on every single flight,” she says. “It’s thick cotton with a lot of Lycra, but it’s not a legging, so you don’t feel like you’re wearing exercise clothes.”

Wright says that L.A .brand the Great’s cotton tees are so thin “you could probably fit 12 of them” in your bag. Available in numerous neutral shades, “they’re amazing quality, they’re soft, and they don’t wrinkle like thicker tees do.”

Merino wool is a natural fiber beloved by outdoorsy people for its sweat-wicking and anti-microbial properties. In other words, merino-wool clothes don’t need to be washed as regularly as cotton ones do, which makes them great for travel, says Kelly. She likes dresses from the brand Wool& because “it has cute, fashionable things where you don’t necessarily look like a hiker.”

Cold weather is probably the biggest challenge a light packer can face. Rather than a bulky coat, Burnham (who is currently on a trip that started in Iqaluit in the Canadian Arctic and will finish in tropical Vietnam) carries a packable down jacket from Eddie Bauer that folds into its own pocket, which he says “is just as good as any packing cube.”

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The Ultimate Personal Item Bag Packing List (Essentials You Can’t Afford to Leave Behind)

• January 10, 2024

Smart packing goes beyond just choosing your favorite personal item bag. You’ve got to consider everything from the weather to your itinerary and let’s not even get started on airline luggage restrictions. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with the ultimate personal item packing list.

In this article, we’ll dive into the essentials you’ll need to make your trip as smooth as possible. From tech gadgets to toiletries, I’ll guide you through what to pack and why it’s important. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time flyer, you’ll find this list invaluable.

Stay tuned, and you’ll never have to face the dreaded “I wish I’d packed that” moment again. Let’s make packing less of a chore and more of a pre-trip excitement builder, shall we?

Table of Contents

What should be included in a personal item.

Your hand luggage should include essentials like your wallet, ID, travel documents, and any necessary medication. It’s also wise to pack items for comfort and entertainment, such as a book, headphones, a travel pillow, and snacks. Remember, this bag is for items you need easy access to during your flight.

But what is not allowed in a personal item bag? Prohibited items typically include liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 ml), sharp objects like large scissors or knives, flammable items, and weapons. Check the TSA guidelines and your airline’s policies for specific restrictions, as they can vary.

What is a personal item?

When you travel with hand luggage, you’re typically allowed two pieces of luggage: the carry-on bag and a personal item . The carry-on is your main luggage that goes into the overhead bin, while the personal item is a smaller, secondary bag that fits under the seat in front of you. However, if you’re flying on a budget airline like Spirit Airlines , often you’re only allowed to bring a personal item and not a carry-on bag.

Airlines generally provide basic guidelines for personal items. While some have specific size requirements, often around 18” x 14” x 8” , it’s best to check with your particular airline as these can vary.

There’s also some flexibility in what counts as a personal item. Common types include tote bags , duffel bags, backpacks, laptop bags , messenger bags, purses , fanny packs, and briefcases. These options make it easy to choose a personal item bag that fits your style and travel needs.

Related :  For detailed insights, check out the article titled “Personal Item Vs Carry-on Bag.”

The Ultimate Personal Item Bag Packing List: Travel Essentials

Whenever I have to pack for my trip, I realize that the task is usually more daunting than it initially appears. No matter how small the trip is, there’s always something I end up forgetting. Often it’s as simple as a toothbrush or a phone charger but I believe that putting together an ultimate travel essentials list can solve this common problem .

I’ll share a comprehensive list of items that are perfect for your personal item bag. This list is especially useful if you’re planning to carry most of your clothes in your carry-on luggage and use your personal item for additional needs and easy-to-reach items during your flight. The idea is to avoid having to access your carry-on during the flight, keeping everything you need right under the seat in front of you.

If you’re looking for a packing list that’s specific to short trips where you’ll only be traveling with a personal item bag, let me know in the comments, and I’ll provide tailored advice!

Any comprehensive travel essentials list has gotta have subsections. Let’s divide it into travel documents, tech gadgets, toiletries, and miscellaneous.

Travel documents

Never underestimate the importance of having your travel documents in place.

·         Passport and IDs: Always carry originals and photocopies of your passport, ID, boarding passes, visa paperwork, and any other vital documents you might need. An extra copy of the passport won’t hurt.

·         Cash and Cards: Don’t rely solely on cards. Sometimes local vendors don’t acknowledge digital payments.

·         Travel Itinerary: Having a clear plan helps in making your travel more comfortable.

It’s a good idea to keep these documents in a specific, easy-to-reach section of your bag, like a dedicated pocket or a travel document organizer. This helps you quickly find them when needed.

Valuables and jewelry

It’s safer to keep your valuables and jewelry with you than in checked luggage. This way, they’re less likely to get lost or stolen. 

Tech gadgets

When it comes to electronics in your personal item, focus on bringing your phone, a small laptop or tablet, headphones,  e-readers, and their respective chargers. For longer flights, a portable power bank is essential. Arrange these electronics so you can easily reach them during the flight or quickly show them at security checkpoints. I would recommend you use a tech organizer to arrange your electronic devices.

Consider your personal item as the main storage for your electronics, especially items you plan to use during the flight. If you need your laptop for work or entertainment, include it in your personal item. Otherwise, you can keep it in your carry-on luggage. This strategy minimizes the need to frequently access overhead bins and keep your most-used electronics within arm’s reach.

Health essentials

It’s crucial to include a few health-related items in your personal bag. A small bottle of hand sanitizer and travel-sized wipes are must-haves for cleanliness. Don’t forget any prescription medications you might need, and it’s wise to carry a small toiletry bag with essentials like a toothbrush and toothpaste for freshening up during your journey.

When packing liquids in your carry-on, remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule . This rule allows liquids in containers of up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in a clear, one-quart bag. If your liquids fit these criteria, you’ll have an easier time at security. I recommend keeping this quart-sized bag in your personal item for easy access during the flight.

Additionally, consider packing a basic first aid kit . This should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes or creams, tweezers, medical tape, and gauze pads for minor injuries. It’s also wise to bring along common over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and anti-diarrhea tablets. Keep these, especially prescription medicines, in their original packaging with any necessary prescriptions.

Regularly check and replace expired items in your first aid kit to ensure it’s always ready for use.

Comfort Items

For a more comfortable journey, especially on long flights, pack a neck pillow, a compact blanket, and noise-canceling headphones. These items can make a significant difference in your travel experience, helping you to relax or sleep better.

The idea is to make your journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. I always ensure that I have these comfort essentials within reach because they significantly enhance the travel experience. Why settle for less comfort when you can easily pack these items in your personal bag?

Maintaining personal hygiene during travel is necessary. You can get a clear toiletry bag to carry these items to pack in your personal item or hand luggage to make airport security faster.

·         Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Oral hygiene is not something that can be compromised.

·         Shampoo and Conditioner: Not all hotels provide these daily necessities.

·         Sunscreen: Wherever you go, protecting your skin from harmful rays is a must. You can also throw in a lip balm if needed.

Entertainment

In terms of entertainment, bringing along a book, a journal, or having movies and shows downloaded on your device can be a lifesaver, especially on long flights. Being able to immerse yourself in a good book or a show can make the time fly by.

This list is not exhaustive but it’s essentially what the majority of travelers should consider. Of course, the details would depend on your destination, the purpose of travel, and your personal preferences.

Snacks and beverages

It’s always a good idea to pack your own snacks for a flight. Opt for non-liquid options like granola bars or nuts. Bringing your snacks is especially beneficial if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, as it can be hard to find suitable food at airports or on the plane.

Here are some simple snack guidelines to follow, according to Fred Perrotta , the CEO of Tortuga:

·         Avoid smelly or spicy foods that might be disruptive in a confined space.

·         Choose snacks that won’t perish quickly, like fruit or jerky, but plan to eat them during the flight or discard them before customs.

·         Stay away from crumbly snacks that can create a mess.

·         Consider avoiding nuts if possible, as a courtesy to those with airborne allergies.

·         Carrying a refillable water bottle is also a smart move. You can fill it up after passing through security and stay hydrated without having to wait for service on the plane.

Their guideline echoes the importance of being considerate towards fellow passengers and ensuring your comfort and nourishment during the flight. As they put it, “Nothing beats being prepared with your stash of snacks and entertainment to make your flight enjoyable.”

How to Choose the Right Personal Item Bag

When it comes to selecting a personal item bag for traveling, the first thing to consider is the nature of your trip. Are you traveling for business or leisure? The type of trip will influence the kind of bag that best suits your needs. For instance, a business trip might require a sleek backpack or a briefcase, while a leisure trip could call for something more casual like a tote or a duffel bag.

Depending on where you’re going and what you’ll be doing, different types of personal item bags can be more suitable. For instance, a backpack is my go-to choice because of its versatility, but for others, a tote or fanny pack might be more convenient.

You also need to always check with your airline regarding their size restrictions for personal items. Each airline has its own rules, and there isn’t a universal standard size. You wouldn’t want to end up at the airport only to find out your bag doesn’t meet the airline’s size criteria, which could lead to unexpected fees for checking in your bag.

By the way, I’ve put together a comprehensive review of the best personal item bags – from backpacks and underseat bags to totes and fanny packs. These options are not only designed to fit under airplane seats but have also been recommended by frequent travelers and travel experts alike. This guide can help you find the perfect bag that meets both airline requirements and your personal needs. 

Related : Check out my article “The 2 Sets of Carry-on Luggage Rules You Need to Know”

Understanding TSA rules for your personal item

Navigating air travel rules can be challenging, especially when it comes to what you can pack in your personal item. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of TSA regulations regarding liquids, prescription medications, and prohibited items, along with some airline-specific guidelines.

·        Check Airline Personal Item Size Policies

Each airline has its own set of rules for the size of personal items. It’s important to know these before you pack to avoid any surprise fees. For example, airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet have specific size limits for personal items. Packing a bag that’s too big could end up costing you extra at the gate.

·        Follow TSA 3-1-1 Liquid Rule

The TSA has a clear rule for carrying liquids on planes. Known as the 3-1-1 rule , it states that you can only bring liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. All these containers must fit into one transparent, quart-sized zip-lock bag, and each passenger is only allowed one such bag. If you need to bring larger quantities of products like shampoo, it’s better to check them in your luggage.

·        Properly Pack Prescription Medications

If you’re traveling with prescription medications, make sure they stay in their original packaging with clear labels. This helps you maintain your medication schedule and ease your passage through security checks. The TSA has specific guidelines on traveling with medications, which you should follow to avoid any issues during your journey.

·        Avoid Packing Prohibited Items

Certain items are not allowed in your hand luggage, such as liquids over 100ml, sharp objects longer than 4 inches, flammable items, and weapons. Keep in mind that some restrictions might vary depending on the airline and your destination, so it’s a good idea to double-check before you fly.

Remember, being well-informed and prepared about these regulations will help you start your trip smoothly and avoid potential problems.

How do I make a packing checklist?

Start by listing essentials based on the purpose and length of your trip. Include travel documents, electronics, health and comfort items, snacks, and entertainment. Group items into categories (like documents, electronics, etc.) to ensure you don’t miss anything. Review and adjust your checklist according to your specific travel needs.

What is not allowed in a personal item bag?

Prohibited items typically include liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 ml), sharp objects like large scissors or knives, flammable items, and weapons. Check the TSA guidelines and your airline’s policies for specific restrictions, as they can vary.

How to deal with overpacked personal items

If your personal item is overpacked, try reorganizing or removing non-essential items. Use packing cubes or compression bags to save space. If it’s still too large, you may need to transfer items to your carry-on or check a bag. Be mindful of your airline’s size limits for personal items to avoid additional fees.

Can I have 2 personal items on a plane?

Most airlines typically allow passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag on board. However, if you’re traveling with a basic economy ticket, you might be limited to only one personal item and no carry-on.

Related : For more detailed information, you can refer to the article “Can I Get Away With Bringing Two Personal Items,” where I delve deeper into this topic.

Final thought

So there you have it. I’ve shared my ultimate personal item packing list to ensure your journey is as smooth as possible. From power banks to earplugs, these travel essentials can really make a difference.

By following this checklist and keeping airline policies in mind, you can ensure that you have everything you need within reach. Travel smart and you’ll be ready for whatever your adventure throws at you. Safe travels!

Related : Here’s my suggestion for the best bags measuring 18x14x8. They’re designed to easily fit under most airline seats.

Wole Femi Asaolu

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How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item

If you know me, you're aware that I loathe checking a bag .

This strategy served me well as a frequent Southwest Airlines flyer , thanks to the carrier's generous baggage policy permitting two free carry-on items (and two checked bags), regardless of fare type.

Not every airline offers passengers as much flexibility, though. There are various restrictions on what constitutes a carry-on bag suitable for storage underneath the seat in front of you versus the overhead bin.

After years of enduring shoulder pain from carrying a duffle and roller carry-on, I hopped on the backpack trend in 2020 and purchased a Caraa Sport backpack I use as my personal item for all travel. I love this backpack. However, it's caused me some issues when traveling, since it doesn't always fit underneath the seat on certain aircraft , including the Embraer 175 aircraft used by American Airlines for regional flights.

Depending on the fare type, airlines generally permit travelers to carry on two items — one that fits underneath the seat in front of you, generally labeled as a personal item, and a second item that fits overhead. However, you must meet certain dimension thresholds, which vary by airline.

This guide outlines current carry-on baggage policies for 10 airlines.

For more TPG news, deals and tips, subscribe to our daily newsletter and download the free TPG app !

Domestic carry-on policies

A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc.

Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

You must check any item exceeding the dimensions outlined by airlines.

Southwest Airlines

As mentioned, Southwest stands out among carriers for allowing passengers two free carry-on bags and two checked bags on all fare types.

Carry-on items stored overhead must be 24 by 16 by 10 inches. Personal items for under the seat – including purses, briefcases, cameras, food containers, laptops and backpacks – cannot be larger than 16 1/4 by 13 1/2 by 8 inches.

"Your personal item must be stored under the seat in front of you," according to Southwest . "If it doesn't fit or if there's no seat in front of you, we'll ask you to place it in an overhead bin."

Delta Air Lines

"Each passenger flying with Delta can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item free of charge (such as a purse, laptop bag or item of similar size that will fit underneath the seat in front of you)," according to Delta . "If you plan to bring roll-aboard luggage or a large bag to store in the overhead bin," note the below size restrictions.

Approved personal items include a purse, briefcase, small backpack, camera bag, diaper bag, laptop bag or other similarly sized item.

The combined length, width and height of carry-on baggage should be less than 45 inches. Individual items must be less than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

Giving Southwest a run for its money, all Delta fare types, starting with the most restrictive basic economy, allow both a full-size carry-on item and a personal item.

Related: Southwest baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

American Airlines

Basic economy passengers on American Airlines are also allowed one full-size carry-on, in addition to one personal item, such as a purse or backpack.

"Your personal item like a purse or small handbag must fit under the seat in front of you," American outlines on its website , noting that the dimensions must be under 18 by 14 by 8 inches.

Unlike some other carriers, American does not count certain items carried on for babies, such as diaper bags, as one of your carry-on items.

"Diaper bags (1 per child), soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices don't count as your personal item or carry-on," according to American.

American considers overhead bin items to be any baggage less than 22 by 14 by 9 inches (including handles and wheels) and they must fit in the sizer at the gate.

United Airlines

United's basic economy fare is among the most restricted fare types out there. Passengers can only travel with one personal item that fits under the seat, measuring 9 by 10 by 17 inches. That means if you brought a backpack on board, it would be your one and only item allowed.

If you need to bring a second bag for the overhead bin, note that you'll have to pay $60 round-trip to upgrade to economy. In economy class and above, carry-on bags cannot exceed 9 by 14 by 22 inches, including handles and wheels.

Related: United Airlines baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

Travelers flying JetBlue's Blue Basic are only granted one personal item that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. Specifically, an item measuring less than 17 by 13 by 8 inches, handles and wheels included. Again, this would include backpacks or comparable items that must suffice as your only piece of luggage.

Any Bue Basic traveler who brings a full-size carry-on bag to the gate will incur a $65 fee to check their first or second bag or $180 for their third bag.

Blue fare types and above allow carry-on luggage that fits in the overhead bin, specifically bags not exceeding 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

There are a few exceptions to JetBlue's carry-on policy to allow certain customers in Blue Basic to carry on a full-size bag, including for Mosaic status holders, unaccompanied minors, active U.S. military members and customers traveling to and from London.

International carry-on policies

British airways.

Like JetBlue and United, British Airways' basic economy fare only permits travelers to bring hand luggage up to 16 by 12 by 6 inches. Economy and premium economy fares afford passengers one full-size cabin bag measuring 22 by 18 by 10 inches. All bags must weigh less than 51 pounds.

"On busy flights, you may be asked to check in your larger cabin bag," British Airways advises .

Although Emirates also restricts economy passengers when it comes to carry-on baggage, you are able to bring one full-size bag, including one that can fit in the overhead bin, as long as it does not exceed 22 by 15 by 8 inches or weigh more than 15 pounds.

"All carry-on baggage must fit either under the seat in front of you or in one of the overhead lockers," per Emirates . "Baggage may not be placed behind your legs, in the aisles, or in front of emergency exits."

Singapore Airlines

Similar to Emirates, Singapore Airlines allows premium- and economy-class passengers one piece of luggage on board, under 15 pounds with a combined length, width and height of up to 45 inches. This could be a backpack or a more traditional piece of luggage.

"In addition to the limitations stated here, you must also be able to stow your baggage securely in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you," the airline explains .

Related: JetBlue baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

Cathay Pacific

Unlike the other international carriers mentioned, Cathay Pacific allows all customers one piece of carry-on luggage and one additional smaller item, including handbags, laptop bags, small backpacks, camera bags and briefcases, according to its website .

This policy, which applies to all fare types starting with Economy Light, allows for one full-size item measuring 14 by 9 by 22 inches and a personal item with dimensions not exceeding 16 by 16 by 12 inches, both of which must weigh less than 15 pounds.

Virgin Atlantic

All people flying in economy classes on Virgin , which includes Light, Classic and Delight, and those flying in premium cabins may bring one carry-on item that can fit in the overhead bin, as long as it weighs less than 22 pounds.

If you want to carry on a second bag, you would need to book an Upper Class fare, which entitles you to a second bag, and the bags must weigh less than 35 pounds combined.

"Whichever cabin you're in, the size of your bag needs to be a maximum of 23 x 36 x 56cm (that's around 9 x 14 x 22 inches)," as noted by Virgin Atlantic .

Bottom line

Whether you are entitled to both a full-size carry item suitable for the overhead bin and a personal item, such as a backpack, depends on the airline and fare type booked.

Certain elite status holders may be granted additional carry-on leniency regardless of cabin class.

Although most domestic airlines do not have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, some do for specific routes and all of the international carriers specify a weight requirement.

Overall, airlines generally do not consider certain items carried on as part of luggage, such as a jacket, umbrella or food bought at the airport.

Related: Which credit cards cover baggage delays?

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update)

We’ve all been there – finally settled into the seat when you realize your sweater – book – whatever – is in the overhead compartment. Your choice is now to do without your needed item, or squeeze back into the aisle, jostling your neighbors as you wrestle your bag from the packed bin, dig through it, and return, chastened, to your seat. Or you could choose the best personal carry-on bag, the one small underseat bag most airlines allow, and you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. And won’t your trip be easier without annoyed seatmates?

Table of Contents

What’s the difference between a carry-on and a personal item?

Most airlines allow full-priced passengers to bring two bags on board – a carry-on bag that is stowed in the overhead bin and a personal item that must fit under the airline seat in front of you.

(NOTE: most airlines require those seated in emergency rows and those in the bulkhead seats stow all bags, including hand luggage, during takeoff and landing)

Examples of 2022 Personal Size Item specifications Be sure to check with your airline for your flight’s in-cabin allowance. American Airlines – 18″ x 14″ x 8″ (45 x 35 x 20 cm) British Airways – 16″ x 12″ x 6″ ((45 x 35 x 20 cm) JetBlue -17″ x 13″ x 8″ (43.2 x 33 x 20.3 cm) Lufthansa – 15″ x 11″ x 3.9″ (40 x 30 x 10 cm) United Airlines – 17″ x 10″ x 9″ (43 x 25 x 22 cm)

Skip the intro, go directly to the bags.

This post includes affiliate links. we may earn a small commission at no additional expense to you if you purchase something or take an action on one of these links. none of these bags have been given (or discounted) to traveling tulls for review.   disclosure, how to choose the best personal bag for you.

>Read our testing procedure below .

Consider YOUR air travel needs and carry ability

Contents: What do you need to have available during flight? (or want close at hand)

__ EDC – wallet, passport, travel essentials __ Cell phone, tablet __ Laptop – size? __ Camera – type, lenses, etc.? __ Reading material (for work or pleasure) __ Headphones – size? __ Water bottle, snacks

__ Children’s needs – diapers, toys, etc. __ Medication/first aid supplies __ Travel pillow __ Light sweater, scarf, or wrap __ Change of clothing __ Toiletry bag

Versatility: how can you use the bag during your trip (or at home)

Will you be using the bag for meetings on business trips? Can it double as a travel purse or stylish tote while you’re exploring a new city? Will it work as a day bag for cruise excursions? Or will it be stored until the return flight?

Can you use the bag at home? Strongly consider a bag that’ll be useful in your day-to-day life!

Physical Carry: what’s best for you

Consider your destination. If you anticipate walking on cobblestone streets and climbing stairs with your bag, avoid a bag with wheels. If you will be heading to a damp climate, consider a water-resistant bag.

Consider your abilities. Be realistic about what you can carry and for how long. Choosing the right size bag is essential.

If you are planning on traveling carry-on only , prioritize the capacity of the bag.

Budget: what makes sense

IF you need to purchase a bag, set a firm budget for your bag. There are good bags in all price ranges.

Balance durability with price. If you’re a frequent traveler, you might spend more to get a bag that’ll last for years. If not, find a bag that works for you at a good price and don’t stress the quality.

What to look for in a personal item bag

• Organization: Under the best of circumstances, accessing an under-seat bag is difficult. Having a well-organized bag with easy access to exterior pockets will make finding everything easier.
• Zipper closures: Secure your bag to avoid having your items roll around the cabin during turbulence.
• Multiple carry options: Carrying the bag as a backpack can be comfortable, but you won’t always be able to get that bag on your back (crowded subways…). Having other options is great!
• Durability: Your bag may see some rough carry on your trip. Buying a well-made bag will insure you don’t have straps break or zippers fail. (As mentioned above, if you don’t travel often and don’t want to invest in an expensive bag, there are many durable but inexpensive bags that might work for you.)
• Style: A bag that’s suited for the office is very different that what you’d bring to the beach…

Test pack your bag!

There’s no shortcut here. if you want to find a bag that’ll work as your personal item, you will need to see, pack, and test carry the bag. Borrow or buy the bags you are considering. (Make sure you can return the bag if it is not a good option.) Pack and test them at home, or better yet, in a mall where you can get a real feel for walking with a bag.

Make a packing list of what you expect to carry on your flight. If you plan on using your bag at home too, make a basic pack out for those uses as well. Carry the bag for at least 15 minutes to get an idea of how it feels on your shoulders and back. Practice taking the bag off and putting it on to see how easily you’ll be able to maneuver and get quick access to the bag.

Important : Be smart and considerate if it’s a possibility you’ll return the bag. Don’t put the bag down on dirty surfaces, remove tags, carry liquids, or do anything else that might damage the bag. A simple 15-minute walk around should leave the bag in an unused condition.

Disclosure: Unless noted, I have tried and tested these bags. If we have not had personal experience with the bag, we have had it highly recommended by other female travelers.

15 best personal items bags for every trip

For most US and International Airlines allow dimensions that add up to 36″ (90 cm) The following bags will likely be accepted without question. If you are pushing the limit on bag size, choose a dark color to be less conspicuous:

Best personal item bags with wheels

Anytime you add wheels to a bag it becomes more difficult to fit under the seat in front of you. (Especially if you’re unlucky enough to get a AV box mounted under that seat). But for some, having a rolling suitcase is essential. If my carry-on for the overhead compartment is a large backpack or duffel, having a rolling tote to load the larger luggage on makes getting around the airport a lot easier.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB port

• Dimensions: 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9″
• Weight: 5.6 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Price [2023] – $$ – See on AMAZON

I will always pick a spinner case as four wheels are so much easier to roll through the airport and along the narrow plane aisle. I haven’t traveled with this bag (yet!) but love the wide front packet, and the fact that the laptop sleeve is removable. There is also a USB port (just a port, no built-in battery) which is handy for quick charges.

Travelpro Max5 Lightweight Rolling Tote

• Dimensions: 16″ x 13.75″ x 8.5″
• Weight: 5.5 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Capacity: 32 liters
• Price [2022] – $$ – See on AMAZON

Travelpro is a great brand and this bag seems to be well thought out. It’s one of the lightest rollers out there, which is important as no matter that it rolls, there will ALWAYS be times when you need to lift the bag.

Best lightweight personal item bags

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

• Style – 🎒 backpack
• Dimensions 13.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″
• Weight 0.81 lbs. | .37 kg.
• Volume – 27 L
• Laptop/Device Carry
• Price [2024] – $99

I love this bag for light travel. It’s basically a black hole (as the name implies) but I can fill it with all my inflight necessities: neck pillow, kindle, tablet, purse, one day packing cube, etc. Then at my destination I use it as a tote or day pack BUT I can also fold it up and put it away. Especially helpful if touring and bags are being ported from one place to another.

Pros : lightweight, made from 100% recycled materials, front pocket, zip and cinch closure, packs flat inside your luggage.

Cons : little structure and support.

Lands End – Travel Carry on Tote Bag

• Style – tote
• Dimensions 18″ x 15″ x 6″
• Weight – 1.25 lbs. | .57 kg.
• Volume – 28 L
• Laptop/Device Carry –
• Price $ – See on AMAZON

Pros : inexpensive, very durable, spacious main compartment, useful at home as well as when traveling, trolley sleeve.

Cons : very basic, no internal organization, likely too large for most airlines unless under-packed,

Osprey Daylite Plus backpack

• Style – 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10″ x 9″
• Weight – 1.2 lbs. | .54 kg.
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – sleeve for tablet or hydration pack

Pros : very lightweight and roomy, one external pocket and a ‘shove-it’ pocket for stashing a jacket or scarf while going through security. Will attach to a larger bag like the Osprey Farpoint.

Cons : not designed for long carry. no dedicated padded laptop compartment.

Osprey Daylite Tote Pack

• Dimensions 17″ x 15″ x 8.25″
• Weight – 1.18 lbs. | .54 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ laptop

Pros : two carry options, water bottle pockets on side.

Cons : little built-in organization

Disclaimer : I am recommending based on my experience with other bags in the Daylite line. Though I prefer the Daylite Plus Backpack, I include this bag as being able to carry it as a tote is better for many.

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack

• Dimensions  16″ x 12″ x 5″
• Weight  – 1.45 lbs. | .65 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ laptop
• Price [2022] – $89

A lightweight, small backpack ideal for women. This bag features removable tech sleeve for laptop, chargers, etc. Removing this bag leaves a wide-open space ideal for beach outings, etc.

Pros : Multiple carry options (backpack or tote), breathable back panel, compact size is ideal for those with small frames, multiple color options

Best midweight personal Item Totes

My top pick for a classic underseat bag: Solgaard Voyager . This is an elegant bag, great for business carry or city travelers.

Solgaard Voyager Weekender

• Dimensions  – 17.7″ x 11″ x 8.7″
• Weight  – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 16″ laptop
• Price [2024] – $220

Pros : opens flat for easy access, includes compression ‘closet’, trolley sleeve, secret passport pocket, fleece lined laptop and tablet sleeve.

Eco-Friendly – Made with Shore-Tex ocean bound plastic. Solgaard is a Certified B Corporation.

Cons : a bit heavy for carry capacity

Lo & Sons O.M.G.  

• Dimensions – 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 6″
• Volume – 25 L
• Price [2024] – $378 (look for sales!)

This bag (O.M.G – Overnight Medium Gym bag ) is well organized with a separate compartment for shoes (or gym clothes), pockets within pockets (great idea for security!) and padded compartment for your laptop.

Pros: trolley sleeve, elegant design, comfortable messenger strap, separate shoe/dirty clothing compartment

Cons: Pricey, The height of the bag makes a tight fit under airplane seats.

Best midweight personal item backpacks

My picks for a underseat backpack bag: a tie between the stylish Pacsafe Citysafe 17L and durable Tom Bihn Synik 22 . Both bags have lots of compartments that make accessing things mid-flight easy.

Pacsafe Citysafe 17 L

• Style : 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions -15.4″ x 10.6″ x 5.9″
• Weight -1.54 lbs. | .7 kgs.
• Volume – 17 L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON | Pacsafe

Pacsafe specializes in bags with security features. This bag has lockable zippers, slash proof straps, and RFID shielding. Despite the focus on security the bag is elegant and suitable for business or city travel.

Pros : security features, wide opening, trolley sleeve, front compartment with built in organizations

Cons : Shoulder straps are padded but lightly. Wish it had a place to attach a shoulder strap.

A similar bag, but without the security features, is the Baggallini Soho Backpack . I was truly torn between which bag I should recommend, as they’re both stylish and easy to carry. The Baggallini is a bit lighter and less expensive, so if you don’t need the security features you might want to try this bag. However the zip on the Baggallini is not as robust.

Tom Bihn Synik 22

• Style – 🎒backpack
• Dimensions – 16″ x 11.4″ x 9.4″ / 410 x 290 x 240 mm
• Weight – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 22L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ MacBook
• Price $$$ [2024] – $320

This is my go-to pack. The bag is well-made and very durable. The external pockets make organizing easy. I pack chargers, etc., in the chin pocket, and everything else I’ll need in flight in the other pockets. No need to pull out the whole bag to access anything.

Pros : 5 external pockets for ease of access, trolley sleeve, padded laptop sleeve, clamshell opening, adjustable straps, comes in various colors

Cons : price, weight, the trolley sleeve (luggage pass through sleeve) can be difficult to use depending on the handle size of your rolling luggage.

NOTE: the Synapse 19 is a simpler version of this bag, with no laptop compartment or clamshell opening. It still has the great organizational pockets but is much lighter.

Vera Bradley Lay Flat Convertible Backpack

• Dimensions 16.3″ x 10.2″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 2.85 lbs. | 1.29 kgs.
• Volume – 20L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON

This bag will appeal to Vera Bradley quilted fabric fans.

Pros : multiple interior pocket, opens flat for ease of packing. multiple carry options

Cons : No small, secure outside pocket for quick access to phones, etc. Fabric offers little structure.

Best personal item bags for camera carry

Camera bags offer different systems for accessing equipment. What bag you choose will depend on how YOU are comfortable working with your camera equipment. These three bags double as airline personal items, but there are lots of other great camera bags we recommend for travel.

Lowepro Photo Hatchback 16 L

• Style – 🎒📷 camera backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10.8″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 1.8 lbs. | .8 kg.
• Volume – 16 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 8″ tablet sleeve

I love this bag for nature traveling. The camera basket is accessible from the rear of the bag giving extra security. To access the camera while standing, you remove the shoulder straps and swing the bag down in front of you.

The top of the bag has enough room for an jacket, snacks, and other items making this a well-organized bag to carry on excursions.

Pros : inexpensive, durable, functional pockets and device sleeves.

Cons : Only fits a minimal camera setup.

Wandrd Prvke 21L

• Style – 🎒📷camera backpack
• Dimensions – 43 x 28 x 17 cm / 17 x 11 x 6.5 in
• Weight – 2.8 lbs. | 1.3 kg
• Volume – 21 L (25 L with the roll-top extended)
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ MacBook, separate tablet sleeve
• Price $$$ [2024] – $219 ($299 with photography bundle) see price on Wandrd | Amazon

Camera can be accessed from a discreet side pocket or by opening the bag fully.

Pros : well cushioned and ventilated back panel, water resistant, hidden passport pocket, luggage pass-through

Cons : price, especially as the photography bundle is an add-on

Disclaimer : I base my recommendation on the Wandrd 6L Sling which I really like. I am intrigued by the roomier Prvke but have not had the opportunity to try it. I like the slim profile and the potential for expansion offered by the roll top.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip

• Dimensions – 17.5″ x 10.5″ x 7.9″
• Weight – 3.4 lbs. | 1.54 kg
• Volume – 15 L
• Price $$ [2024]- $189 See on Amazon | Peak Design

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip comes in 2 sizes – 15L and 20L. This is the smaller size. Peak Design also offers the Everyday Backpack (latches instead of zips) in two sizes – 20L and 30L.

Camera is accessed from the either side of the bag. A continuous zipper allows the user to set up the zips as works best for them.

Pros : elegant design, cushioned handles on top and sides, internal dividers allow use to customize their setup.

Cons : price, weight for volume.

What to do about a Personal Item if you’re traveling on a very restrictive airline

Some budget airlines are eliminating the personal item altogether for passengers in coach. In this situation, I stash my minimal flight needs into a smaller bag which will fit inside our bigger bag. Once onboard, I slip the smaller bag into my seat pocket for the flight. Many bags will serve this purpose but a brightly colored bag is harder to leave behind in a seat pocket!

Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag – our favorite bag within a bag. This lightweight bag has zipped closures, and can be used at our destination as a shoulder bag, a camera bag, or whatever.

A large cosmetic bag may be perfect for your in-seat needs, and is quite inexpensive! Test the size to see if your gadgets, and EDC fit. Consider using a toiletry bag . Some have hooks that you can use to attach to your tray table and pockets for all your gear.

Look for seat back organizers . Some are easy to stow in your larger carry-on but can be pulled out for your seat pocket.

Tortuga Setout 19L packable backpack – made from ripstop nylon material, this pack folds into a tiny package, but has mesh pockets for water bottles and a zippered outside pocket. (8 oz., 5 x 11 x 17, $39)

How we tested the personal item bags

We reviewed the bags we recommend (or a variation from the brand) for carrying comfort, capacity, and durability, and style.

• Carrying Comfort: As a woman over 50 with back and shoulder issues having multiple carry options is important. Well-cushioned straps and a trolley sleeve were appreciated. The weight of the bag also came into play as heavier bags are more challenging to carry.
• Wallet, iPhone, iPad Mini, Kindle paperwhite, earbuds, charging cords in small cinch bag, sunglasses, medications, essential toiletries (toothbrush, lip balm, lotion, etc.), light sweater, water bottle, small snack, and [optional] clothing for one day in a compression cube
• Durability: Several of the bags have been in our travel rotation for years so durability is obvious. For those bags we tested only, the quality of the bag’s construction and the materials used helped us to determine durability. We confirmed our assessment by checking with other travelers who recommended the bag.
• Style: This is a personal preference.

I hope this A-list guide has helped you discover a personal item sized bag that’ll work for you. Do you have a favorite bag you reach for every trip? What determines what you carry?

This article contains referral links. Read our  DISCLOSURE .

TravelingTulls is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We are not provided with any products by Amazon but receive a small fee if you purchase an item through our link.

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

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• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

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3 thoughts on “ 15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update) ”

Lug bags found at Luglife. com are great travel bags. They are sturdy, well-made and reasonably priced. Highly recommend these bags.

“no laptop compartment” is listed as a con for the Daylite Plus, but it does have a separate patted laptop sleeve. Is that an error or is a laptop compartment something different?

Hi Daniel, I am traveling right now but will check whether my Daylite Plus has a padded sleeve. I don’t use a case for my laptop so prefer padding in the backpack. But of course a padded compartment adds bulk to a bag so there is a trade-off. Thanks for the comment!

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Get a Personal Item Packing List for a Flight (+ a Free Printable Copy)

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Looking for a personal item packing list? Read on!

The area under the seat on an airplane is pretty tiny. It doesn’t offer a lot of room for a large bag filled with stuff. But you want to make sure you have the things you need during the flight so you have easy access to them.

Whether you also bring a carry-on bag or decide to check it, you’ll want to give thought to what you pack in your personal item. Here’s what you want to be sure to have on your personal item packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure  for more information.

What’s a Personal Item Bag for Flying?

A personal item bag is a bag that fits under the seat in front of you on a flight. It can be anything from a backpack to a laptop bag and a diaper bag to a tote bag. Some people call it a carry-on bag, particularly if they are checking a bag.

The space is designed for you to pack a bag that includes anything you will want to access during the flight. It’s also used for anything essential for your trip.

A carry-on bag is a bag that you stow in the overhead bin. They can be a bit larger than your personal item bag, so you have more room to pack items in them.

You’ll find a wide variety of personal item bags. They come in different sizes, shapes, styles, and materials. They range from backpacks to duffels and totes to messenger bags and more.

Want to skip below to the list? Click here to go directly to the packing list .

What to Pack in Your Personal Item Bag for Flying

What you pack in your personal item bag will depend if you’re carrying on a bag or checking your bag. If you’re checking a bag, you want to make sure you have things you’ll need for the first couple of days, just in case your bag gets lost.

However, keep in mind that you may be required to check your bag. The overhead bin space isn’t guaranteed, and if you’re one of the last to board, you may miss out on that space and need to check your bag.

As a result, it’s a good idea to plan for it to make sure everything you’ll need for your first day or two is in your personal bag. This includes things like a spare change of clothes. You’ll also want to make sure you have valuables, medications, and electronics. You should also bring your toiletries.

Here’s a list of suggested items to consider putting in your personal item bag. You’ll want to customize this for your own use, but it’s a good starting point that will give you some ideas!

Personal Item Bag Packing List

Here is the list of what you should consider bringing in your personal item bag on the plane. This list includes items you may need during your flight and the most important items that you’ll want to keep on you during your trip in case your other bag doesn’t make it.

• Passport (for international trips)
• Driver’s license/ID
• Credit and debit cards
• Copies of reservations and itinerary
• Eyeglasses (or contact lens solution)
• and sunglasses
• All electronics: laptop, camera, tablet, etc.
• Chargers and plug adapters
• Earbuds or headphones
• Medications
• One change of clothes
• Water bottle
• Hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Face cleanser and moisturizer
• Feminine hygiene products
• Small notebook and pen

Feel free to add to this list with personal items you want to bring. Maybe you like a travel pillow and an eye mask for the flight. Or maybe you like a scarf. Customize this to meet your specific needs, removing anything you don’t need.

Want a printable copy? No sweat! Get a free printable copy that you can use for your trips by signing up below. You will also get my monthly newsletter with updates, tips, and recent posts.

What to Look for with Personal Item Bags

Of course, the most important quality of personal item bags is that they fit under the seat in front of you on the plane. It’s helpful if you can get them in and out easily to access your things during the flight.

Bags with outside pockets for easy access are convenient, and bags with compartments to keep things separated and organized can be helpful.

Ultimately, the best personal item bags are what you prefer! There are a lot of different options ranging from small backpacks to luxury designer bags.

Consider the type of trip you’re going on and what you’ll be doing to see what type may work best. For example, if you are hiking on your trip, taking a small backpack may be a great option for you.

The bag itself may be as important as the items you have in it. It’s a good idea to consider bags with zippers to make sure items don’t fall out when you’re traveling.

Convertible bags are also a great option. These bags can be worn in different ways, like a bag that has straps that can be used as a backpack. Or a bag that can be worn over the shoulder or across the chest, like a messenger bag.

Also, keep in mind that your bag may get tossed around a bit as you travel. You’ll also be stuffing it under the seat in front of you on a plane, so make sure it’s made of a durable material that will hold up.

Consider the style of the bag. If you’re going hiking, a backpack may be a practical choice. If you’re going on a city vacation, you may want a tote or cross-body messenger bag that you can easily keep your hands on in a crowd or on public transportation.

How Much Space Do You Get for Your Personal Item?

Whatever the bag is doesn’t matter as much as that it fits under the seat. What makes this challenging is that different airlines (and even different planes) have different space sizes.

You can check with your airline to see what the dimensions are that you have to work with. They are generally between 7 and 9 inches deep, 10 to 18 inches wide, and 14 to 18 inches high.

If you haven’t traveled with the airline before, it’s a good idea to consider a soft bag that can be squeezed into the space if necessary. Just make sure you don’t go too big, as the airline may require that you check your carry-on bag.

How to Pack a Personal Item Bag for Flying

When you pack your personal item bag, you’ll want to consider a few things. First, what are the items you’ll want easy access to while you’re on a plane?

The last thing you want to do during a flight is to go rooting through your carry-on bag in the overhead bin, looking for that pen you know is there! So, make sure anything you might want access to is in your personal item bag for easy reach. (If you run out of room, the outside zipper of your carry-on bag is an option).

Second, if you’re checking your bag and not carrying one on, you’ll want to make sure everything you need for at least a couple of days is in your personal item bag. This includes a change of clothing, medications, valuables, electronics, etc.

And last, keep in mind that even though you may plan to carry your bag, you may not have the space to stow it. When the baggage bins get full, the airline will require that you check your bag. So, keep this in mind when you pack, and make sure you have what you need in your personal item bag.

Unfortunately, bags sometimes go missing, and it could take you a couple of days to get your bag back. I once had a business trip where I needed a suit. My bag never arrived, and I didn’t pack much in my personal item bag. I was scrambling to shop for the things I needed!

Best Personal Item Bags for Flying

Here are a few great choices for personal item bags in a variety of styles. For the full list, check out this post on the best personal item bags for flying!

• Falanko Laptop Bag —If you’re flying with a laptop, this waterproof and stylish laptop bag is perfect. It also has an anti-theft zipper making it even better for traveling with your electronics.
• Osprey Daylight Plus —This is the perfect backpack for flying. It has everything you need, including a sleeve for a laptop, a water bottle holder, and compression straps.
• Land’s End Tote Bag —This tote bag is a great choice if you need a little extra room in your personal bag. It can fit a weekend’s worth of clothes and has a small outside pocket for your phone and passport.
• Matein Laptop Backpack —You can fit your laptop easily in here and then use the luggage strap to slide it over the handles of your suitcase.
• BAGSMART Camera Backpack —Make sure to get this bag if you’re always bringing your camera along. It has cushioned compartments for all your camera supplies.
• Patagonia Black Hole Tote — This great travel backpack is perfect for flying, hiking, and really any other activity!

Which Personal Item Bag Will You Choose?

There’s no shortage of choices for personal item bags. It’s not easy to decide, and each trip you go on is different and may have different needs.

And having a personal item packing list for your flight is priceless! Never miss anything again with this comprehensive list that you can customize to fit your specific needs.

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Sam is a travel-obsessed animal lover on a quest to create a life of travel with her dog. She loves learning new things, snuggling a dog, architecture, hiking, and bold red wine. Join her in creating a life to dream about!

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How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

See recent posts by Peter Thornton

You’ve found an amazing airfare but the price only includes a personal item. What does this mean? Should you pony up and pay extra for a larger carry-on or checked bag? Is it possible to take a trip with only a small backpack or handbag?

Tips for Packing in Only a Personal Item

I’m here to tell you that yes, it is possible. Although not ideal, traveling with only a personal item can be a great way to take a super cheap getaway for a few days. And if you’re into the minimalist lifestyle, you can even stretch this out to week-long trips or longer. More and more airlines are selling super cheap flights that only include a personal item with the hope that most passengers will pay extra for bags and/or other ancillary fees. If you don’t want to pay any more than that low fare you were attracted to, use these tips to travel with only a personal item sized bag.

What is a Personal Item?

First of all, let’s be clear on what exactly a personal item is. The exact dimensions vary by airline, but are usually a maximum of around 18x14x8 inches and up to 22 lbs. Each airline and individual employees will vary on how strictly these limitations are adhered to. In general, think small backpacks, large purses, or small wheeled bags that will fit underneath the seat in front of you on an airplane.

The growing number of airlines that only include a small personal item in the lowest class base price include Allegiant , Flair Air , Frontier , Porter , Spirit , Sun Country , Swoop , and United . Read on to learn how to take advantage of these airlines’ cheap flights.

What to Bring When Packing in a Personal Item Only

You’ll have to be extremely picky about what goes in your bag if you’re going to travel with only a personal item. There is no room to bring any items on a “just in case” basis. A general rule of thumb is to bring along a total of about three outfits, including what you decide to wear while traveling. Of course, this varies depending on how long your trip is and what other items might be more important to you.

It’s usually best to leave your laptop behind on such trips as the added weight may tip you over the scale and many of your computing needs can be done with a smartphone these days. A tablet or an  e-reader can be a good alternative if you prefer to have a larger screen. That being said, it’s not very common for airlines to actually weigh your personal item, though some will insist.

Below, I’ve included a list of what I usually bring with me when packing just a personal item. This list is obviously more geared towards male travelers, but I’ve tried to include a few similar examples for female travelers as well. The number of clothing items really depends on how lightweight your clothes are and how long you plan to travel. Remember to wear your bulkier items and a few layers on the plane. Check out these 16 Perfect Garments to Wear on Your Next Flight .

What to Pack in Your Personal Item Bag

• 1 Pair of shorts
• 1-2 Pair of pants
• 1-2 dress shirt(s) or dress(es)
• 3-5 Pair of underwear/socks
• 1 Lightweight waterproof jacket
• 1 Pair of universal shoes
• 1 Pair of sandals or flip flops

Technology :

• Tablet or Laptop (if necessary) with a protective sleeve
• Chargers for devices and portable USB charger
• Accessories (usb stick, cables, etc.)
• Universal power adapter

Toiletries / Personal items :

Make sure your liquids are TSA compliant.

• Small reusable bottles filled with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and sunscreen
• Pocket laundry wash
• Toothbrush, shaver, comb, deodorant, medications, etc.

Travel Documents & Money :

• Passport / ID, itinerary, wallet, USD cash
• ATM card with no fees
• Credit card with no foreign transaction fees

Miscellaneous Items :

• Travel towel
• Water bottle
• TSA luggage locks
• Ziploc bags
• Drawstring bag

The key to traveling with only a personal item is that you should only bring one pair of shoes. For this reason, you’ll have to choose wisely on which pair to bring and make sure it is a versatile and comfortable shoe that can be used for daily touring and also look nice enough to wear for a night out on the town.

Of course, if you’re traveling for more than just a few days, you’ll have to find somewhere to do laundry. This is usually pretty cheap and the pocket laundry wash works well if you need to wash something quickly. If you need to travel for a formal event, wear your formal attire on the flight to save space in your bag and also so it does not wrinkle. You may even get noticed for an upgraded seat if you’re looking spiffy and the airline needs to upgrade any passengers in order to open up oversold Economy seats.

How to Pack Your Personal Item

After setting aside a few layers of your bulkier items to wear on the plane, it’s time to cram all other items in your small personal item bag. To save as much space as possible, roll your clothing and you can keep things more organized by placing your clothes in a drawstring bag or a reusable shopping bag before placing in your personal item sized bag. Do the same for your pair of sandals or flip flops so other items don’t get dirty or if space is of the essence, you can easily attach a pair of sandals to the outside of your bag with carabiners. A bungee cord can also be useful to strap bulkier items to your bag that you don’t want to wear if it’s too hot while traveling.

Some items such as heavy coats won’t fit in a personal item sized bag, so if you’re going to a colder climate, you’ll need to wear or carry these items on the plane outside of your bag. I also like to bring a small plastic shopping bag with snacks or purchase a to-go meal at the airport to bring onboard. If space in your personal item is tight, you can always place a few items in your snack bag and you’ll likely never have any issue boarding a plane this way.

Personal Item Bags to Fit Everything You Need

Choosing the right personal item bag is paramount to fit what you need for your trip. It’s a good idea to check the airline’s size requirements for specific limitations, though unless the bag looks overly large, I don’t think many gate agents actually size up these bags. There are plenty of options to choose from for personal item bags. A small backpack is ideal for organization as they usually include many different compartments and also allow you to be hands-free when traveling. If you prefer wheeled bags, there are even a few small enough to fit underneath an airplane seat. Another option is to go with a large tote bag, which can usually fit the most items. Here are a few bags I recommend.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 15” Lightweight Carry-on Rolling Under Seat Bag

Swiss Gear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack

ECOSUI Duffel Bag Weekender Overnight Bag Large Travel Tote

Samsonite Large Wheeled Underseater

Leather Carry On Bag - Airplane Underseat Travel Duffel By RusticTown

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Backpack

For more bags that fit the personal item dimensions, check out these 7 Smart Backpacks for Your Next Weekend Trip .

The added bonus of not lugging around extra bags will also allow you to save once you arrive at your destination. Public transportation options suddenly don’t seem too bad when you’re only carrying one small bag and you can put your extra money towards tasting the local food or enjoying the attractions during your trip.

Related Article: How to Pack for an Extended Trip in Just a Carry-On Bag

Header image by diy13 via Shutterstock . Product images courtesy of Amazon.

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What to Pack in Your Personal Item Bag

Every airline carrier has its own set of luggage restrictions and fees. However, all of them have one thing in common: you’re allowed to take one personal item free of charge. 

Wondering what a personal item is? Is it the same as a carry-on bag? And what can you bring in your personal item?

Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! Find out the difference between a carry on vs. personal item, what is allowed in a personal item bag and get carry-on bag examples, as well as a handy dandy personal items packing list.

CARRY-ON VS. PERSONAL ITEM

A personal item is a type of hand luggage that you carry on to the plane with you and is smaller than a carry-on. What is considered a personal item bag varies from airline to airline, but a small purse, briefcase and laptop bag are always considered personal items. 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.

A carry-on is a type of hand luggage that you bring into the plane cabin with you and is larger than a personal item. It must either fit under the seat in front of you or on the overhead bin.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PERSONAL ITEM BAG

So, how do you choose the right travel personal item bag, and what can you pack in it? 

Ask yourself, where are you going? What type of trip are you taking — business or pleasure? Always check with your airline before packing a personal item bag as there’s no one-size-fits-all size that’s allowed. You don’t want to get stuck having to check your bag, likely paying a fee to boot.

BUSINESS TRIP

When  taking a business trip , you’ll likely require your laptop and other electrical devices such as a tablet. With that in mind, a  briefcase would be a suitable choice. Our  Large Expandable Brief is the ultimate personal item bag for a work trip. It features three different sections: an organizer, a generously sized main compartment, and a laptop compartment to hold a 17” device — there’s also a bonus private compartment for a change of clothes. 

As if that doesn’t sound spacious enough, this model features Briggs & Riley’s CX compression-expansion technology, which adds even more packing space (2.5 inches to be exact) before compressing back down to the original size, which means you have room for your essentials. There are also four slip pockets (including one padded one for your tablet) and an elastic bloused pocket in the main compartment for specifically storing cables and charges, so they don’t get tangled up with all your other belongings. 

If you’re looking for something on the smaller side, you might like a more traditional model such as the  @work Medium Brief . It has enough space for a 15" Apple ® Macbook (or a 15.6” laptop), as well as additional storage for other business essentials. This bag also features our Corner SpeedThru™ pocket for quick storage of items at security checkpoints. It can be easily accessed without letting go of the handles.

PLEASURE TRIP 

There are many more personal travel bag options to choose from when you’re taking a trip for pleasure. Backpacks are a classic option but, rest assured, our models are the grown-up version of your childhood school days!

Take, for example, the lightweight and stylish  Rhapsody Collection Essential Backpack . Along with dedicated space for your go-to essentials, this  expandable laptop backpack also has a cavernous compartment for bulkier items such as a change of clothing and a pair of shoes.

Hate airport security lines? Who doesn’t? The expandable  Large Fold-Over Backpack provides access to the interior via a strategically placed pocket to help save time in airport security lines. 

Versatile, durable, reusable, and stylish, a travel tote bag is a must-have essential for any traveler type. A carry-on tote, such as our  Essential , is light-weight - yet it has enough generous packing space to fit necessities such as reading material, snacks, a cosmetic bag (if applicable), travel documents, and more.

If you’re looking for a roomy carry-on tote bag that can serve multiple purposes, our  Extra Large Tote can be used for your flight, souvenir scouting, a trip to the beach, or whatever else your travel plans have in store. 

Crossbody bags are also an ideal personal item bag because they are comfortable to carry around. After all, the weight of the bag is evenly distributed on both sides of your body. This bag style also means your hands are free to carry your coffee and show your travel documents. Our  Crossbody Sling bag features a versatile shoulder-or-waist strap. The tablet pocket is padded, so it will be protected from all the other goods you can stuff in this generously sized crossbody travel bag. 

For a style that’s more like a crossbody travel purse, there’s our  Rhapsody Crossbody . Sleek, simple, and with enough space to hold all your essentials. As you can wear this bag in front of your body, you won’t have to worry about someone stealing your passport, wallet, or other personal items. 

WHAT CAN YOU PACK IN A PERSONAL ITEM BAG?

When packing a personal item bag, you first have to remember the items you can’t take on a plane. For starters, can you have liquids in your personal item? Well, yes and no. According to  TSA regulations , you’re allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your personal item bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD ABSOLUTELY LEAVE HOME INCLUDE:

Sharp objects (scissors (except for nail scissors), knives, straight razors, and safety razor blades, etc.)

Sporting equipment

Self-defense items like pepper spray or brass knuckles

Tools of any kind

Flammable and explosive items 

HERE’S WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR PERSONAL BAG FOR FLYING:

Travel documents and passport if needed

Wallet and ID

Reading material

Eyewear — prescription and sun protection

Electronics such as a laptop, tablet, cellphone, camera, suitable chargers, etc.

Snacks (but keep them on the non-smelly side - nobody wants to sit next to the tuna sandwich eater)

Gum or mints

TSA-approved toiletries (and makeup if applicable), and don’t forget the hand sanitizer, lip balm, hand cream, and deodorant ( here’s how you pack ‘em! ) 

Antibacterial wipes

Fuzzy warm socks or slippers

Noise-canceling headphones

A DIY medical kit that includes daily and necessary medications (think anti-nausea meds, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea tablets, etc.), bandaids, an Epi-Pen, antiseptic cream, Ace bandage, etc.

Outerwear such as a jacket, wrap, scarf, etc.

A travel neck pillow, eye mask, and a light blanket for added comfort

A  carry-on cocktail kit for elevated in-flight sipping (responsibly, of course)

Journal and writing utensil

TYPES OF PERSONAL ITEMS BAGS

As you can see, there are a variety of types of personal items bags, making it easy to find one that best suits your style and travel needs. The most common types include:

·   Tote bags

·   Weekend bags

·   Backpacks (including travel backpacks and laptop backpacks )

·   Crossbody bags

·   Briefcases

Shop BR to find your perfect personal item bag and bring it with you on your next trip! Be sure to check out the array of modern bags in our popular Baseline collection .

This was very helpful for my up coming flight

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• Packing Tips • Air Travel
• Packing Tips

How to Travel with Just a Personal Item

Published May 27, 2022

Written by:

Julianne Ross

Julianne is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Wired, New York Magazine, CNN, McSweeney’s, Vox,...

Jenn Sutherland-Miller

Jenn raised 4 children while traveling full-time for more than a decade– it’s called worldschooling and it’s awesome. Jenn has...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

If you feel like airlines nickel and dime you for every perk these days, you’re not imagining it.

Budget airlines like Spirit have long kept prices low by offering a bare-bones travel experience. Delta launched its own no-frills fare option in 2012, and nowadays major carriers charge you for pretty much everything — including, on many routes, a carry on .

Don’t get caught off guard: these basic economy (a.k.a. “saver” or “light”) fares are temptingly cheap, but try to sneak a carry on aboard and you’ll get slammed with the full cost of a checked bag. Sometimes there’ll even be an added gate check fee, negating whatever great deal you scored on your ticket.

If you’re a Tortuga fan, you already know that not checking a bag is the key to faster, cheaper, smoother travel. But to take full advantage of many basic economy fares, you’ll need to go one step further and travel with just a personal item .

This doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, boarding a plane with nothing but a small backpack or tote bag can feel incredibly freeing. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do it right.

First, let’s do a quick refresher on what a personal item actually is.

Carry Ons vs. Personal Items

The difference between carry on bags and checked luggage is the size. The difference between carry ons and personal items is murkier. 

In general, your carry on goes in the overhead bin while your personal item fits under the seat in front of you.

Personal Item Size Limits 

While some airlines list specific dimensions for personal items , plenty don’t. The average size limit for a personal item is 18 x 14 x 8 inches, but check your airline’s personal item size guide before traveling.

Purses, backpacks , tote bags, and even duffel bags can all be considered personal items, as long as they can fit under your seat.

When to Travel Personal-Item-Only

There are a few situations when it makes sense to travel with just a personal item:

• You’ve booked a basic economy ticket that doesn’t include a free carry on in your fare. 
• You’ll be bouncing around on your trip and relying on public transportation. You’ll be grateful not to have to deal with larger luggage on packed buses, trains, and ferries.
• Your trip is very short and you don’t want to deal with the hassle of a larger piece of luggage.
• You’re traveling with a pet in the cabin (pet carriers typically count as your carry on ).

Which Airlines Charge for Carry Ons? 

The ever-growing list of domestic airlines that don’t allow carry-on bags in their lowest tier fares include Spirit , Allegiant , Frontier , United (on select routes), JetBlue , Breeze , and Sun Country .

Popular international carriers that exclude carry ons in basic fares include RyanAir , easyJet , Norwegian , Avianca , and Wizz Air .

What’s Allowed in a Personal Item Bag?

Anything that’s allowed in a carry on bag is allowed in a personal item. Keep all liquids under 3.4 ounces and put them in a clear, quart-sized bag.

Things like coats, umbrellas, reading materials, diaper bags, and goods bought in the airport don’t count towards your personal item.

Protect your laptop when you fly.

• Personal-item-sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to carry
• Built to last

The Best Personal Item Bag

Tortuga’s Laptop Backpack is everything you need in a personal item bag. 

The Laptop Backpack will fit under your seat, and its full front opening makes it much easier to pack (and unpack) than a standard backpack or hiking bag. The padded laptop compartment will also protect your computer on professional trips or while commuting back home.

Finally, and importantly, the Laptop Backpack is extremely sleek. This isn’t (just) about staying stylish while traveling: the more a personal item calls attention to itself, the higher risk that an overzealous gate attendant will find a reason to make you check it.

Know your itinerary and skip “just in case” items. It’s easier to pack if you know what you’ll be doing every day on your trip, so get a solid sense of your itinerary before you leave. 

Be picky. Bring only what you know you’ll need , not items that might be nice to have.

Pack travel-friendly fabrics. You need clothes that you can wear multiple times and that will look presentable after being squished into your bag. That means odor-repelling, quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant fabrics.

Merino wool is your best bet here. Unlike cotton, it dries fast, regulates body temperature, and wicks away sweat.

Stick to a dark, matching color palette. Dark colors hide unexpected stains, while a neutral color palette lets you mix and match items. Limit yourself to two tops and one to two bottoms that you can rotate (your third outfit will be whatever you wear on the plane).

Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. This is especially important for cold weather travel. Layer up where possible. Tie sweaters or sweatshirts around your waist and wrap your scarf around your shoulders. 

Remember, you can toss heavy outerwear in the overhead bin after you board.

Clip shoes to the outside of your bag. Ideally, the only shoes you bring will be whatever you wear on the plane.

If you must bring a second pair, use a carabiner to clip them to the outside of your pack. This will also prevent your shoes from getting the other stuff in your bag dirty.

Take advantage of pockets. Don’t waste precious bag space on items that you can easily fit in your coat or pant pockets.

Leave the laptop behind. This is obviously not possible on business trips or working vacations. Otherwise, stick with a tablet or e-reader. Do you really want to spend your trip in front of a computer screen anyway?

Keep toiletries simple. Most accommodations provide basics like shampoo and conditioner, and you can always buy items at your destination. A toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel-sized deodorant are all you need.

Your skin will survive if you skip your 10-step routine for a few days. Embrace the low-maintenance lifestyle and focus on enjoying your trip rather than looking camera ready.

Don’t bring things your accommodation provides. This includes towels, hair dryers, and irons. If you’re unsure what will be available to you, call your hotel or rental and ask before packing.

Share packing duties with travel companions. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, split packing duties for items you can’t live without. One of you brings the sunscreen, another the portable charger , etc.

Bring an extra lightweight, collapsible bag . You don’t want to be stuck carrying your main bag on day trips. Instead, toss a collapsible tote (like this excellent option from Baggu ) into your luggage and pull it out for trips to the beach, grocery store, and so on.

Plan to do laundry. For trips lasting more than a few days or involving lots of messy, outdoor activities, accept that you’ll eventually have to wash your clothes . 

Hotels and hostels usually offer laundry services. For vacation rentals, check if there’s washer and dryer onsite or ask your host to direct you towards a good laundromat. 

Knowing the laundry situation ahead of time will help you get your clothes clean with the least hassle.

• Fits under the seat

Traveling with just a personal item isn’t the impossible dream, so long as you follow the rules of packing light. Bring clothes you can wear multiple times, lighten up on the toiletries, and wear your bulkiest items on the plane. That way, you can take advantage of fantastic basic economy fares without the ridiculous bag fees.

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Julianne is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The Atlantic, Wired, New York Magazine, CNN, McSweeney’s, Vox, and more. She’s also solo backpacked across four continents, locked her keys in the car in the middle of a safari park, and posted #travelgrams referred to as “stunning” by her mom. You can follow her on Instagram @julianneiross.

Read more from Julianne

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How to travel with only a personal item.

We at Her Packing List are big fans of packing light to avoid unnecessary travel stress and fees that come from having too much luggage.

But would you bring only a large purse for a weekend trip?

I recently tested out this scenario on a short trip to Florida in order to save money and hassle. We can’t all travel for three weeks with a large purse like Brooke, but I’m here to tell you that ultralight is still possible for the rest of us!

A Cheapskate’s Guide to Ultralight Travel

Being the cheapskate that I am, I usually try to pack as little as possible to avoid extra baggage fees . This past November, I planned a girls weekend with my sister and friend to Universal Orlando Resort in Florida. We were excited to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but because of the high costs of visiting the parks, we wanted to keep the rest of the trip cheap.

So we all flew different budget carriers from our respective destinations. One flew Allegiant from Tennessee, another flew Frontier from North Carolina, while I flew Spirit from Georgia. All were less than $150, but there was a trade-off. We didn’t want to pay for carry on bags each way, so we ended up traveling with only personal items , which are free on budget carriers.

Airlines can be strict about the sizes of personal items, so we picked our smallest bags and fit in as much as possible for a short trip.

>>See how much your flight really costs .

Carry-on vs Personal Item

In case you were wondering the difference between a carry-on and personal item, it’s this:

A carry-on bag is generally the luggage that you put into an overhead bin. It can be a backpack up to around 40 liters, or a suitcase up to 22 inches. It does not fit under the seat in front of you.

A personal item is a bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. Airlines have different restrictions for the personal item. For many, this bag can be a laptop bag or an oversized purse. On others, it can simply be any bag that fits under the seat. And on others, it can have a weight restriction tied to it.

It’s always important to check and double check your airline’s carry-on and personal item restrictions.

Picking a Personal Item Bag

I’ve seen many people argue with gate agents over their bags, especially when it comes to budget carriers. In fact, when I arrived in Orlando, a man was being taken away by the police because he refused to pay a fee for his bags that were too big. Don’t let this be you!

I carefully checked my airline’s measurements for a personal item and used a bag that I knew would work, my fantastic knockoff (or cheap real version?) Longchamp Le Pliage bag that I picked up in Malaysia ‘s Chinatown. Even when fairly full, it can be squished under my seat, so I didn’t think I would have any problems.

My sister carried a vintage flight attendant style bag she picked up at her local “op shop” that fit perfectly under her seat as well. You don’t have to buy something new!

What I Packed in My Personal Item

Even in November, the weather was warm but got colder at night. I knew I wanted to bring a few layers and comfortable shoes for walking around. I knew I wouldn’t need items like toiletries or towels, so I left them behind and only brought my medicated lotions. The hotel had everything we needed and anything else could be purchased there.

Here are just a few of the items I packed :

• Lanyards for our park passes
• Snacks , tea , and coffee to save money
• Camera and chargers
• Small day pack that fit into the personal item
• Water bottle
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of shorts
• 2 sweaters, including one Harry Potter themed
• 1 pair of Converse sneakers
• 1 pair of Birkenstock Madrids
• Contacts and glasses
• Small amount of makeup and lotions
• Travel sized hair brush

Would I Do It Again?

Yes! I didn’t buy much in the way of souvenirs , so I didn’t have to worry about my items not being able to fit back into my bag. It was a nice way to save money and keep myself from carrying unnecessary items .

Plus, I hardly had time to need much in the way of clothing as we were in Orlando for less than 72 hours! I hope to challenge myself next time by being able to pack as light for an even longer trip .

Written by Caroline

Caroline Eubanks is a native of Atlanta, Georgia, but has also called Charleston, South Carolina and Sydney, Australia home. After college graduation and a series of useless part-time jobs, she went to Australia for a working holiday. In that time, she worked as a bartender, bungee jumped, scuba dived, pet kangaroos, held koalas and drank hundreds of cups of tea. You can find Caroline at Caroline in the City .

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Reader Interactions

October 16, 2017 at 12:42 pm

This is great! Can you share how you folded the items, and also, what were the dimensions of the bag? And, what did you wear on the plane? I always try and wear layers and the “biggest” shoes on the plane to help with packing…

January 21, 2018 at 12:36 am

I used to roll clothes until I tried the layering method. Largest item first. That’s my beach wrap. Keep layering and top and tailing so it’s all flat. Then fold edges into middle and fold it all up. Seriously you fit so much in this way

January 10, 2018 at 2:42 pm

I find that if you roll everything, (I mean the tightest roll you can for each item, you can fit in a lot – rolling is key. Hope that helps 🙂

April 16, 2019 at 5:25 pm

Do you sleep without clothes? I am always freezing and since I had a thyroid lroblem it’s gotten worse. I also bring a pillow. I’ve bought an inflatable with the right shape but it’s cool and it moves… It’s super small so it would be great if that would work.

July 20, 2021 at 3:24 am

I wondered no PJs, underwear, or socks, mentioned?!

November 11, 2021 at 11:40 am

What an insightful post! I tend to pack too much when I travel, but I’m looking to downsize. Thank you for sharing!

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Does Travel Insurance Protect My Personal Belongings Beyond My Baggage?

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What Travel Insurance Covers

What baggage insurance covers, what personal property insurance covers, when you might not be covered, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, final thoughts.

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Uh-oh. You left your laptop in your locked rental car during a trip and returned to find it stolen. Or, you dropped your expensive camera while on vacation and damaged it. You may have baggage coverage as part of your travel insurance policy, but since your incident isn’t the result of mishandling from a common carrier — such as an airplane, train, ship, or bus — do you know whether you can file a claim to be reimbursed for those items?

With so many exclusions, reimbursement limits, and terms like “actual cash value” versus “replacement cost,” it can be difficult to understand what type of insurance covers what kind of incident involving personal property.

Unfortunately, the answer isn’t so simple. Sometimes, baggage coverage within a travel insurance policy only covers you specifically when traveling on a common carrier. Other times, travel insurance can protect your personal belongings beyond your baggage and at any point during your trip. 

However, even if it does cover you, your travel insurance may limit the dollar amounts eligible for reimbursement, and high-end items may not be covered at all. But you may not be completely out of luck, as there are several ways to ensure your personal property is covered while traveling. 

Here’s a closer look at different types of coverage, such as baggage insurance, personal property insurance, and credit card benefits, and how they may protect your personal belongings during your travels.

Travel insurance can protect you against losses from many scenarios you might encounter while traveling. From covering trip delays and interruptions , cancellations , lost or delayed baggage , illnesses, or accidents requiring medical evacuation, purchasing travel insurance can provide peace of mind that you won’t be out a significant amount of money should something go wrong during your travels.

You can buy a comprehensive travel insurance plan that typically includes trip cancellation, trip delay and interruption, lost luggage, and medical coverage.

Or, instead of buying a comprehensive plan, some travel insurance companies allow you to purchase the specific coverages you want to include with your plan. For example, if you only want insurance for trip cancellation, you may be able to purchase that specific coverage. Alternatively, if you just want medical coverage because your personal health insurance doesn’t cover you abroad, you can buy a travel medical insurance policy.

Baggage insurance is a subset of travel insurance, typically covering lost or delayed luggage while traveling. So, if you check in your suitcase before a flight and your suitcase fails to show up at baggage claim when you arrive at your destination, you’ll be covered with your baggage insurance. Some policies may only cover checked baggage, while others also cover carry-on bags.

You can get baggage insurance as part of a comprehensive plan, separate coverage, or as part of your credit card’s travel insurance benefits. However, if you’re looking into having credit card baggage coverage , keep in mind that it only tends to cover you for damage or loss from a common carrier.

Depending on the policy , baggage delay coverage will reimburse you when you purchase items you need, such as a toothbrush, toiletries, and clothes, for the time that you don’t have your belongings. A minimum number of hours may be required for the delay coverage to kick in, plus a daily and/or per-person reimbursement limit. If your baggage is delayed for 2 hours, but your policy only provides reimbursement for delays of 8 hours or longer, you likely won’t be covered for any purchases during that 2-hour delay.

Meanwhile, under baggage loss coverage, you can be reimbursed for the entire missing piece of baggage — including its contents — if it remains lost for a period set by the insurance company. Damaged baggage claims can also be made under baggage loss coverage. Airlines typically offer reimbursement for lost or damaged baggage, however, travel insurance can provide additional reimbursement should you have eligible costs not covered by the airline.

Depending on the policy, you may be covered for damage or loss to your personal property beyond your baggage at any point during your trip, not just while traveling on a common carrier, like an airplane, train, ship, or bus. 

Every plan is different, so it is essential to read your plan documents to understand whether or not personal property, such as a stolen laptop from a rental car, is covered beyond baggage and at any time during your trip. In addition, travel insurance plans may exclude certain valuables or only have low reimbursement limits, so you may need to turn to your personal property coverage through your homeowner’s, condo, or renter’s insurance.

Some travel insurance plans may provide secondary coverage for your personal belongings, paying for items that may not have been fully reimbursed by other means, such as from an airline or through your homeowner’s insurance.

A homeowners’ or renter’s insurance policy typically includes personal property coverage. It is designed to protect the things you own, like your furniture, clothing, and electronics, from damage or theft. However, it doesn’t just cover the items inside your home or apartment; it also covers personal property with you no matter where you are in the world. It does not cover lost items, though — for example, if you left your cell phone behind in a hotel room. 

Personal property coverage usually limits how much you can receive for specific items, and you’ll also need to pay your policy’s deductible before you can be reimbursed.

There are 2 types of personal property coverage: replacement cost and actual cash value . 

Replacement cost typically pays you the amount it will take to buy a similar new item. So if your laptop purchased 2 years ago for $1,000 is stolen and a similar one now costs $1,500, that is how much you will receive, minus your deductible. 

Actual cash value calculates depreciation to reimburse you based on the current value of an item. In this instance, if the 2-year-old laptop you bought for $1,000 is stolen, you might only receive $600 minus your deductible, depending on how your insurance company calculates depreciation.

You may need an insurance rider in addition to your standard coverage for specific items, such as expensive jewelry, sporting equipment, or musical instruments. This gives you higher reimbursement limits on your valuables. An insurance rider is sometimes called “scheduling” or an “endorsement.”

Most policies use actual cash value for personal property reimbursement. Replacement cost tends to be more expensive and be an optional addition to your policy. 

Both baggage insurance and personal property insurance have exclusions to their coverage. Every policy is different, but here are some common reasons why either type of coverage may not cover your personal belongings:

• Damage due to storm surges or floods. You’d need flood insurance for coverage.
• Damage due to earthquakes. You’d need earthquake insurance for coverage.
• Electronic malfunctions. You’d need to turn to your manufacturer’s or extended warranty.
• You can’t prove ownership. You typically need receipts to prove ownership. Photographs and item serial numbers can also help.
• You misplaced something. Not being able to find your item is not considered a covered loss.
• You left your belongings unsupervised. A theft claim typically requires that your items were in a secure location to qualify as a covered loss.
• You didn’t report your loss to the authorities or the common carrier, which is required by most insurance policies for reimbursement.

Other Ways To Protect Your Personal Belongings

If you didn’t purchase travel insurance and you don’t have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, but your property is lost, stolen, or damaged outside of your baggage while traveling, your credit card benefits may be able to help. Here’s how:

Several credit cards offer purchase protection , which can provide reimbursement for the repair or replacement of a recently purchased item that has been lost, stolen, or damaged. With Chase credit cards , including the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® and Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , this benefit applies to purchases within 120 days and offers reimbursement of up to $500 per claim (up to $50,000 per account). 

There are several exclusions, including some that are travel-related. For example, it doesn’t cover: 

• Items under the control and care of a common carrier, including the U.S. Postal Service, airplanes, or a delivery service
• Items in your baggage on a common carrier unless hand carried or under your supervision or that of a companion you know, including but not limited to jewelry and watches

Some American Express cards, including The Platinum Card ® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express , also have purchase protection. The Amex benefit applies to purchases within the past 90 days and offers reimbursement of up to $10,000 per claim (up to $50,000 per eligible card). Just like Chase, any damage or theft while under the control of a third party, like an airline, and theft from baggage are excluded. 

You need to have charged all or a portion of the purchase to your associated card. Purchase protection only pays for your loss after any other coverage you have exhausted, so it should be your last stop if you have travel or personal property insurance.

If you’re traveling and an item with you breaks or is damaged, and it’s beyond the manufacturer’s warranty period, you may be able to utilize extended warranty protection from the credit card you purchased the item. Select credit cards from several issuers — including Chase, Amex, Capital One, and Citi — have this benefit.

Citi offers the best extended warranty benefit by extending the manufacturer’s warranty for an additional 24 months and providing reimbursement of up to $10,000 to repair or replace your item. Other card issuers only have an additional 1 year of extended warranty protection.

There are several ways to ensure your personal property is covered during a trip. If you don’t have an existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, you should look into getting one, but travel insurance coverage can also help fill the gaps. Before you purchase a policy, ensure you understand exactly what’s included so you’re not left without proper coverage in your time of need.

For the purchase protection benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, purchase protection is an embedded benefit of your card membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect covered purchases made on your eligible card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the covered purchase date. The coverage is limited up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Coverage limits apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Does travel insurance cover my personal belongings.

Your personal items can be covered by travel insurance, depending on your policy. Be sure to read your plan documents to understand whether or not your individual property is covered beyond your baggage.

Does travel insurance cover my expensive items?

Some travel insurance policies cover the loss of expensive items like jewelry, electronics, or cameras. However, the policies may have dollar limits, such as up to $1,000. You may want to insure high-value items through your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, as it will cover your personal items even when traveling away from home.

Does travel insurance cover a lost or stolen passport while on a trip?

If your passport is lost or stolen while on a trip, travel insurance may help you in various ways. Baggage insurance may cover fees related to getting a new passport, and trip interruption coverage may reimburse you for expenses related to rescheduling your travel while you wait for a new passport.

Can personal property be insured anywhere in the world?

Personal property coverage from a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy protects you no matter where you are in the world. You can be on the beach, in a hotel room, in a rental car — it’s all covered.

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About Senitra Horbrook

Senitra Horbrook is a frequent solo traveler who began using points and miles in 2012. Formerly credit cards editor at The Points Guy, Senitra has also contributed to Forbes Advisor, AwardWallet, Insider, among others.

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Prom night flashback: See your fave celebrities in dresses, suits before they were famous

"Will you go to prom with me?"

This is the time of year where youngsters in high school prepare to ask or receive this question as they attend their junior or senior prom. The night is filled with glitz and glam complete with music, dancing and, most importantly, many memories to cherish for years to come.

Prom is a photo savvy function and has certainly evolved over the years. It's not uncommon to see teens nowadays with airplanes, Teslas, or even horses as accessories. Although every prom era is different, this has remained a constant over time: Ladies don beautiful dresses with fancy hairdos and the fellas step out in their well-pressed suits and iconic ties.

Prom is deemed a "rite of passage" for many teens and before many celebrities were in the spotlight and became famous, they too attended prom.

Take a look at celebrities from years past in their prom attire commemorating the big event:

Kevin Bacon to attend prom: At high school where 'Footloose' was filmed for 40th anniversary

Queen B's prom photos circulate on the internet annually as fans continue to gush over the singer's look.

Jason Momoa

The "Aquaman" star was always a heartbreaker even at his prom with his high school sweetheart Lindsey Aaron.

Jimmy Fallon

The comedian poked fun at his prom photo, "My date went tanning the night before. I did not. I looked like Powder," Fallon wrote in the X (formerly Twitter) post.

Paul Scheer

"The League" actor hyped up his prom look in an Instagram post. The actor definitely rocked his gummy bear corsage.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift didn't know that her prom theme "spotlight" would become her reality after her career took off when her "Fearless" album was released in that same year.

Will Ferrell

Did Will Ferrell steal his prom date's tiara? Maybe. Or maybe the beloved actor and comedian, who has starred in funny movies such as "Anchorman", "Elf" and "Step Brothers", needed it as an added accessory to complete his look.

Michelle Obama

The former first lady shared her prom photos on Instagram in an effort to get high schoolers registered to vote and a chance to win a free prom.

Gwen Stefani

The "Hollaback Girl" singer made her prom dress with her mom that was inspired by Grace Kelly's dress in the movie "Rear Window."

Rapper Snoop Dogg showed off his prom pictures with his high school sweetheart turned wife, Shante Broadus.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter) @forbesfineest.

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Create and add an email signature in Outlook

In Outlook, you can create one or more personalized signatures for your email messages. Your signature can include text, links, pictures, and images (such as your handwritten signature or a logo).

Note:  If the steps under this New Outlook tab don't work, you may not be using new Outlook for Windows yet. Select Classic Outlook  and follow those steps instead.

Create and add an email signature

On the View tab, select   View Settings . 

Select Accounts > Signatures .

Select    New signature , then give it a distinct name.

In the editing box below the new name, type your signature, then format it with the font, color, and styles to get the appearance you want.

Select Save when you're done.

With your new signature selected from the list above the editing box, go to  Select default signatures and choose whether to apply the signature to new messages and to replies and forwards.

Select Save again.

Note:  If you have a Microsoft account, and you use Outlook and Outlook on the web or Outlook on the web for business, you need to create a signature in both products.

Create your signature and choose when Outlook adds a signature to your messages

If you want to watch how it's done, you can go directly to  the video below .

Open a new email message.

Under Select signature to edit , choose New , and in the New Signature dialog box, type a name for the signature.

Under Edit signature , compose your signature. You can change fonts, font colors, and sizes, as well as text alignment. If you want to create a more robust signature with bullets, tables, or borders, use Word to create and format your signature text, then copy and paste it into the Edit signature box. You can also use a pre-designed template  to create your signature. Download the templates in Word, customize with your personal information, and then copy and paste into the Edit signature box. 

You can add links and images to your email signature, change fonts and colors, and justify the text using the mini formatting bar under Edit signature .

You can also add social media icons and links in your signature or customize one of our pre-designed temlates. For more information, see Create a signature from a template .

To add images to your signature, see Add a logo or image to your signature .

Under Choose default signature , set the following options. 

In the E-mail account drop-down box, choose an email account to associate with the signature. You can have different signatures for each email account.

You can have a signature automatically added to all new messages. Go to in the New messages drop-down box and select one of your signatures. If you don't want to automatically add a signature to new messages, choose (none). This option does not add a signature to any messages you reply to or forward. 

You can select to have your signature automatically appear in reply and forward messages. In the  Replies/forwards drop-down, select one of your signatures. Otherwise, accept the default option of (none). 

Choose OK to save your new signature and return to your message. Outlook doesn't add your new signature to the message you opened in Step 1, even if you chose to apply the signature to all new messages. You'll have to add the signature manually to this one message. All future messages will have the signature added automatically. To add the signature manually, select Signature from the Message menu and then pick the signature you just created.

Add a logo or image to your signature

If you have a company logo or an image to add to your signature, use the following steps.

Open a new message and then select Signature > Signatures .

In the Select signature to edit box, choose the signature you want to add a logo or image to.

To resize your image, right-click the image, then choose Picture . Select the Size tab and use the options to resize your image. To keep the image proportions, make sure to keep the Lock aspect ratio checkbox checked.

When you're done, select OK , then select OK again to save the changes to your signature.

Insert a signature manually

If you don't choose to insert a signature for all new messages or replies and forwards, you can still insert a signature manually.

In your email message, on the Message tab, select Signature .

Choose your signature from the fly-out menu that appears. If you have more than one signature, you can select any of the signatures you've created.

See how it's done

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Note:  Outlook on the web is the web version of Outlook for business users with a work or school account.

Automatically add a signature to a message

You can create an email signature that you can add automatically to all outgoing messages or add manually to specific ones.

Select Settings   at the top of the page.

Select Mail >  Compose and reply .

Under Email signature , type your signature and use the available formatting options to change its appearance.

Select the default signature for new messages and replies.

Manually add your signature to a new message

If you've created a signature but didn't choose to automatically add it to all outgoing messages, you can add it later when you write an email message.

In a new message or reply, type your message.

If you created multiple signatures, choose the signature you want to use for your new message or reply.

When your email message is ready, choose Send .

Note:  Outlook.com is the web version of Outlook for users signing in with a personal Microsoft account such as an Outlook.com or Hotmail.com account.

Related articles

Create and add an email signature in Outlook for Mac

Create an email signature from a template

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