TRIED & TESTED : THE BEST PERSONAL ITEM BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL
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This post features reviews of the best personal item backpacks for travel
Are you planning a trip and searching for the best personal item bag for plane rides overseas?
As a budget traveller I hate spending money on my luggage and I’m all about packing light and the hand luggage only life.
After 20 years of travelling, if there is one thing I know about it’s choosing the best luggage.
In this blog post, I’ve reviewed 12 options for the best personal item backpack and bag accepted on all airlines. All of these personal item backpacks and bags I have reviewed will fit perfectly under the seat in front of you to comply with airline regulations.
So let’s get started and dive into the world of personal carry on luggage to help you find the best personal item bag for your next adventure.
Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!
🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo
NO TIME TO READ NOW? 📍PIN FOR LATER
QUICK GUIDE TO THE BEST PERSONAL ITEM BAGS
Let’s start simple: your personal item bag can make or break your travel experience. It’s that one small piece of luggage that’s supposed to hold everything important - passport, snacks, tech gadgets, and maybe even an extra hoodie. The best ones strike a balance between function, size, and style. I’ve learned this the hard way after squeezing my bag under the seat more times than I’d like to admit. And yeah, the wrong bag can turn into a literal pain in the back.
Best overall personal item backback. Solo Re:Define Backpack Check price
Best budget personal item backpack. Ltemziiy Cabin Bag Underseat Carry-ons Bag Check price
Most stylish personal item backpack. Herschel Little America Mid-Volume Rucksack Check price
Biggest personal item backpack. FIORETTO Travel Duffle Bag with Toiletry Bag & Wet Pocket Check price
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A PERSONAL ITEM BACKPACK
First up: size. Not all airlines are created equal when it comes to what counts as a personal item. You’ll want something that fits their specific dimensions. Each airline will tell you what you can bring aboard, usually sticking to something around the 18 x 14 x 8 inches mark, give or take is about right but more on that later.
It’s a smart move to check out your specific airline before you head to the airport to avoid any surprises. If your bag’s a little over but if you odn’t overpack it and can squish down, you’re often still in the clear.
Then, think about organization. Pockets, compartments, and zippers make a world of difference when you’re fishing for your headphones mid-flight. Oh, and comfort! If your straps dig into your shoulders, you’ll regret every step through the airport.
Here’s a mistake I’ve made: choosing a bag with a single giant compartment. Imagine pulling out your charging cable only to have your underwear tumble onto the floor. Lesson learned - look for bags with a dedicated laptop sleeve, hidden pockets, or quick-access compartments. You’ll thank yourself later.
Consider these pointers when choosing your bag
Space: Choose a personal size backpack with a layout that makes sense for you – enough compartments to keep your stuff organised and easily reachable. Think about what you carry with you and what you’ll want space for. If you carry a laptop you’ll want a space for that, a handy yet secure place for your passport is important and a place where you can store little essentials you want in easy reach during the flight.
Ease of Carrying: Even though personal items are small and aren’t generally heavy you’re still going to have to carry it around so a bag that feels good on your shoulders and has cushioned straps is important.
Toughness: Travelling can be rough on personal item luggage, I know mine has taken a beating over the years so pick a material that can handle that. If it’s water-resistant that’s even better as your stuff will stay dry if you get caught in a downpour.
Style: There are plenty of best personal item bags that are not only functional but also look good.
Smart packing of your personal item backpack
Roll: Rolling clothes saves space and keeps things wrinkle-free.
Packing Cubes: I love a packing cube and never pack my bag without using them. They help you organise your stuff in neat compartments, making packing and unpacking a breeze. Compression packing cubes are fantastic.
Capsule wardrobe: Lets be real, there’s not much space in a personal item bag so aim for clothes that mix and match well.
DOES A BACKPACK COUNT AS CARRY-ON?
Short answer: no. Longer answer: it depends. Most airlines allow you to bring a backpack as a personal item, but it needs to fit under the seat in front of you. Don’t confuse this with a carry-on bag, which usually gets stashed in the overhead locker.
Each airline has its own rules about the size of carry ons and personal items. Some budget airlines are particularly strict and may have smaller size allowances, so always double-check these before you head to the airport.
Once I was travelling with EasyJet and they were being particulary strict that day making everyone put their personal bag in the little size guide things they have. Mine wouldn’t quite fit in as I’d slightly overpacked - all I did was rearrange things slightly, take out a top and tie it round my waist and I was good to go!
Here’s a quick list of some of the most popular airlines and their personal baggage size for quick reference:
AIRLINE PERSONAL ITEM SIZE GUIDE
| Airline | Dimensions inches | Dimensions cms |
|---|---|---|
|
Air Canada |
17 x 13 x 6 | 43 x 33x 16 |
|
Allegiant Airlines |
16 x 15 x 7 | 41 x 38 x 18 |
|
American Airlines |
18 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 35 x 20 |
|
Avianca Airlines |
17.5 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 34 x 20 |
|
Frotier Airlines |
18 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 33 x 20 |
|
JetBlue Airlines |
17 x 13 x 8 | 43 x 33 x 20 |
|
JSX (JetSuiteX) |
17 x 13 x 11 | 43 x 33 x 28 |
|
Southwest Airlines |
18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 | 47 x 34 x 22 |
|
Spirit Airlines |
18 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 35 x 20 |
|
Sun Country Airlines |
17 x 13 x 9 | 43 x 33 x 23 |
|
United Airlines |
17 x 10 x 9 | 43 x 25 x 22 |
|
WestJet |
16 x 13 x 6 | 41 x 33 x 15 |
|
Aer Lingus |
9 x 13 x 8 | 25 x 33 x 20 |
|
Air France |
16 x 12 x 6 | 40 x 30 x 15 |
|
British Airways |
16 x 12 x 6 | 40 x 30 x 15 |
|
Easy Jet |
22 x 17 x 10 |
56 x 45 x 25 |
|
Flybe |
18 x 14 x 8 | 45 x 36 x 20 |
|
KLM |
16 x 12 x 6 | 40 x 30 x 15 |
|
Norweigan |
9 x 13 x 8 | 25 x 33 x 20 |
| Ryan Air | 16 x 8 x 10 | 40 x 20 x 25 |
BEST PERSONAL ITEM BAGS
Pros:
Spacious and Well-Organised: Offers multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve, making it ideal for professionals who travel with tech gear. The layout is intuitive and keeps items neatly organised.
Durable Construction: Built with tough polyester fabric, this bag can handle the wear and tear of frequent travel, daily commutes, and even a little rough handling.
Comfortable to Carry: The padded straps and back panel provide excellent support, making it comfortable for long-term wear - even with a fully packed bag.
Smart Sleeve for Luggage: The back panel has a strap that easily slides over suitcase handles, making it a breeze to navigate airports.
Lots of Pockets for Organisation: It features plenty of compartments for smaller items like pens, chargers, and passports, ensuring quick access while on the move.
Cons:
Heavier Than Some Backpacks: At around 3 pounds empty, it’s a bit heavier than other options, which might be a downside for minimalist travelers.
Bulky for Tight Spaces: While it fits under most airline seats, its structure can feel slightly bulky in tight spaces or crowded commutes.
Limited Style Variety: The design, while professional, doesn’t cater much to casual or colourful preferences - more utility-focused than trendy.
Not Fully Waterproof: Although it’s made of durable materials, the backpack isn’t fully waterproof, so extra care is needed in heavy rain.
Final Verdict:
The Samsonite Tectonic Lifestyle Crossfire Business Backpack is an excellent choice for frequent travellers who want a reliable and well-organised bag. While it leans toward the heavier and bulkier side, its durability, comfort, and smart design make it worth the investment.
Pros:
Compact Yet Functional Design: The 15L size is perfect for short trips or daily use while still offering enough space for essentials like a laptop, notebook, and a few extras.
Expandable Storage: The backpack expands to 21L, giving you the flexibility to carry more when needed, making it versatile for day trips or light travel.
Durable and Weather-Resistant Material: Built with water-resistant materials, this backpack holds up well against rain keeping your belongings dry.
Thoughtful Organization: Includes multiple compartments, hidden RFID-blocking pockets, and a dedicated laptop sleeve (fits up to 16 inches) for optimal organisation.
Comfortable and Secure: The back panel is padded and breathable, while the straps are adjustable for a comfortable fit. Magnetic sternum straps provide extra support and stability.
Cons:
Limited Main Compartment Space: The base 15L capacity might feel restrictive for those who like to pack more, even with the expansion feature.
Pricey: At the higher end of the backpack market, this bag may not be budget-friendly for everyone.
Not Ideal for Heavy Packing: While durable, the bag's compact size and slim profile aren't suited for trips where you need to carry bulkier items.
No External Water Bottle Pocket: Unlike other travel backpacks, this one lacks an easy-access sleeve for a water bottle, which could be a dealbreaker for you.
Final Verdict:
The Nomatic Navigator Backpack 15L is a top pick if you value organisation, durability, and a sleek design in a compact package. While it may not be ideal if you’re a heavy packer or if you’re on a tight budget.
Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack
Pros:
Lightweight and Comfortable: The Osprey Daylite Plus is extremely lightweight, and the padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel make it a joy to carry, even for extended periods.
Compact Yet Roomy: Despite its compact size (20L capacity), it’s spacious enough to fit a laptop, snacks, a water bottle, and a light jacket, making it perfect for day trips or as a personal item for flights.
Durable and Water-Resistant: Made with high-quality materials, this backpack can handle rugged use. It’s also resistant to light rain, so your belongings stay dry in most conditions.
Multiple Compartments for Organisation: The bag features a main compartment, front zip pocket, and side mesh pockets for easy organization and access to essentials like a water bottle or phone.
Hydration Sleeve/Laptop Compartment: The hydration sleeve doubles as a laptop compartment, fitting devices up to 15 inches. It’s versatile and functional.
Fits Under Most Airline Seats: Its size makes it compliant with most airlines' personal item dimensions, making it a reliable travel companion.
Cons:
No Dedicated Laptop Padding: While the hydration sleeve works as a laptop compartment, it doesn’t have thick padding, so extra care is needed when carrying electronics.
No Sternum Strap on Some Models: Depending on the version, it may lack a sternum strap, which could affect comfort during extended wear.
Not Fully Waterproof: While it’s water-resistant, heavy rain can still seep through. Consider using a rain cover in stormy conditions.
Minimal Internal Organisation: Though it has several compartments, the lack of small internal pockets might make it less convenient for organizing tiny items.
Final Verdict:
The Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack is an excellent choice if you value comfort, durability, and a compact design. While it may not suit those needing a larger or more tech-focused bag, its lightweight construction and versatile features make it a fantastic pick for short trips, hikes, or as a secondary travel bag. Reliable, functional, and stylish, it’s a solid all-around option.
Hynes Eagle Flight Approved Backpack
Pros:
Perfect for Airline Travel: Specifically designed to meet carry-on and personal item size requirements for most airlines. Fits easily under the seat or in overhead compartments.
Spacious and Well-Organised: Offers multiple compartments, including a laptop sleeve (fits up to 15.6 inches), internal mesh pockets, and a roomy main compartment for clothes or travel essentials.
Expandable Design: This bag features an expansion zipper, allowing you to increase capacity when needed - perfect for last-minute souvenirs or overpacking.
Durable Material: Made from water-resistant polyester, this bag is built to withstand regular travel and light rain.
Versatile Carry Options: You can use it as a backpack, carry it by the side handle, or attach it to your suitcase with its luggage strap.
Comfortable to Carry: Padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel make it comfortable to wear during long transits.
Cons:
Limited Padding for Electronics: While it has a laptop sleeve, the padding isn’t as thick as some other travel bags, so you may need a separate case for extra protection.
Zippers Could Be Stronger: Some users report that the zippers feel slightly less durable compared to the rest of the bag.
Not Fully Waterproof: The material resists light rain, but heavy downpours could still get your belongings wet - consider adding a rain cover for extra protection.
Straps May Not Fit Everyone Perfectly: The straps, while adjustable, may not provide an ideal fit for people with smaller frames.
Limited External Pockets: With fewer quick-access external compartments, it might not be as convenient for items like water bottles or travel documents.
Final Verdict:
The Hynes Eagle Flight Approved Backpack is an excellent choice if you are seeking a lightweight, versatile, and airline-friendly bag. Its expandable design and thoughtful organisation make it reliable for both short trips and minimalist packing. While it has a few minor downsides, like the limited laptop padding and fewer external pockets, its overall functionality and sleek design make it a solid pick for budget-conscious and frequent flyers.
AmazonBasics Slim Carry-On Travel Backpack
Pros:
Budget-Friendly Price: Offers excellent value for travellers looking for an affordable carry-on backpack.
Slim Design: Its compact, streamlined shape ensures it fits easily under most airplane seats while still accommodating essential travel items.
Spacious Interior: Despite its slim profile, the bag has ample room, with multiple compartments for organizing laptops, clothes, toiletries, and more.
Laptop Sleeve: Includes a padded laptop compartment that fits devices up to 15.6 inches, providing adequate protection during transit.
Comfortable to Carry: Features padded shoulder straps and a back panel for added comfort during long walks through airports or city streets.
Durable and Water-Resistant: Made with sturdy materials that resist light rain and normal wear and tear.
Luggage Handle Pass-Through: Includes a strap to slide the backpack onto the handle of a rolling suitcase, which is a lifesaver during long trips.
Cons:
Limited Style Options: The basic design might not appeal to those seeking a more fashionable or professional-looking bag.
Minimal External Storage: Lacks quick-access external pockets for items like water bottles or travel documents.
Not Fully Waterproof: While water-resistant, it won’t hold up in heavy rain without additional protection.
Strap Padding Could Be Better: The shoulder straps, though padded, might feel insufficient for extended wear with heavier loads.
Zippers Feel Average: The zippers are functional but may not be as durable as those on higher-end backpacks.
Final Verdict:
The AmazonBasics Slim Carry-On Travel Backpack is a practical, budget-friendly option if you prioritise functionality and simplicity. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of premium bags, its slim design, organizational features, and comfort make it a solid choice for short trips or as a personal item on flights. It’s particularly well-suited for budget-conscious travellers looking for reliable performance at an affordable price.
Solo New York Re:Define Laptop Backpack
Pros
Eco-Friendly Materials: Made from recycled PET bottles, this backpack supports sustainable practices while maintaining durability.
Ample Storage: Features a spacious main compartment and multiple organization pockets for easy access to essentials.
Laptop Protection: Includes a padded compartment for laptops up to 15.6 inches, ensuring device safety.
USB Port: Equipped with a built-in USB port for convenient charging on the go.
Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry for extended periods, with adjustable padded straps for added comfort.
Budget-Friendly: Offers great value for its price, making it an accessible option for many users.
Stylish Design: Minimalist and modern, suitable for both work and casual settings.
TSA-Friendly: Slim enough to fit under most airline seats as a personal item.
Cons
Limited Laptop Padding: The laptop compartment padding could be thicker for enhanced protection, especially for heavier devices.
Non-Expandable: The fixed size may not accommodate larger loads for longer trips.
Basic Water Resistance: Provides minimal water resistance, so extra care is needed in heavy rain.
No Sternum Strap: Lacks additional support features like a sternum or waist strap for carrying heavier loads.
Final Verdict
The Solo Re:Define Backpack is an excellent option if you are eco-conscious and seeking an affordable, stylish, and functional bag. While it might not cater to heavy packers or those requiring advanced features, it’s great as a reliable, everyday backpack for travel.
Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 Large Nylon Backpack with Anti-Theft Details
Pros:
Exceptional Anti-Theft Features: Equipped with RFID-blocking pockets, lockable zippers, and slash-resistant straps, making it ideal for urban travel and crowded areas.
Spacious Interior: Offers 25L of storage, providing plenty of space for a laptop (up to 15 inches), travel essentials, and even a light jacket.
Comfortable to Wear: The padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even during long walks.
Durable Build: Made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon, this backpack is built to last and can handle light rain or spills.
Multiple Compartments for Organisation: Includes a padded laptop sleeve, RFID-blocking compartment, and external pockets for a water bottle and umbrella.
Cons:
Heavier Than Expected: The anti-theft materials add weight, making it slightly heavier compared to other backpacks of a similar size.
Pricey: Comes at a higher price point, which may not suit you if you are a budget-conscious traveller.
Limited Style Options: The design is functional but not particularly stylish for those looking for a more trendy or eye-catching bag.
Not Fully Waterproof: While water-resistant, it’s not suitable for heavy rain without additional protection.
No External USB Port: Unlike some other travel backpacks, it doesn’t include a built-in USB charging port for on-the-go convenience.
Final Verdict:
The Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 is a fantastic choice if you prioritise security and organisation. Its robust anti-theft features and durable design make it particularly suited for urban environments, international trips, and public transportation. While it’s on the heavier side and more expensive than some competitors, the peace of mind it offers is well worth the investment if you are concerned about safety.
Herschel Little America Mid-Volume Rucksack, 41 cm, 17 L
Pros:
Stylish Design: The iconic Herschel aesthetic combines vintage mountaineering style with modern functionality, making it a trendy choice for travelers.
Compact and Lightweight: With a 17L capacity, it’s ideal for light travel, day trips, or as a secondary personal item for flights.
Comfortable to Carry: Features padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a breathable back panel for all-day comfort.
Durable Materials: Made with Herschel's signature polyester fabric that resists wear and tear during everyday use.
Protective Laptop Sleeve: Includes a fleece-lined, padded laptop compartment that fits laptops up to 13 inches securely.
Magnetic Strap Closures: The magnetic strap closures over the drawstring opening provide added security and ease of access.
Cons:
Limited Storage Space: With a 17L capacity, it may not be spacious enough for those who tend to overpack or need to carry bulky items.
Not Ideal for Larger Laptops: The laptop sleeve only accommodates laptops up to 13 inches, which might not work for everyone.
Minimal Organization Options: Lacks multiple compartments, so smaller items can get jumbled together in the main compartment.
Magnetic Straps Over Functionality: While the magnetic strap closures are stylish, they might not feel as secure as traditional buckles.
No Water Bottle Pocket: The absence of an external water bottle pocket can be inconvenient for frequent travelers or commuters.
Not Fully Waterproof: While it offers some water resistance, it’s not designed to handle heavy rain without risking the contents.
Final Verdict:
The Herschel Little America Mid-Volume Rucksack is a great option if you prioritise aesthetics and lightweight functionality. It’s ideal for short trips, daily commutes, or as a personal item on flights.
KOPACK Slim Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch
Pros:
Slim and Lightweight Design: Perfect if you want a sleek backpack that’s easy to carry around.
Anti-Theft Features: Includes hidden zippers and a secret pocket on the back panel, providing added security for valuables in crowded places.
Built-In USB Charging Port: Convenient for charging your devices on the go (requires your own power bank).
Water-Resistant Material: Protects your belongings from light rain and spills, adding to its durability.
Padded Laptop Compartment: Fits laptops up to 15.6 inches securely and keeps them protected during transit.
Comfortable to Carry: Features padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel for all-day comfort.
Affordable Price: Provides great value for its range of features and functionality.
Cons:
Limited Storage Space: While compact, it may not be ideal for carrying bulkier items or packing for an overnight trip.
No External Water Bottle Pocket: The absence of a water bottle holder can be inconvenient for longer journeys or outdoor use.
USB Port Requires a Power Bank: The built-in USB port is a great feature but does not include a power bank, which must be purchased separately.
Not Suitable for Larger Laptops: Designed for laptops up to 15.6 inches, so larger devices won’t fit.
Style Might Be Too Simple: The minimalistic design may not appeal to those looking for a trendier look.
Final Verdict:
The KOPACK Slim Laptop Backpack is a solid choice if you are seeking a lightweight, functional, and budget-friendly bag for travel. Its anti-theft features and USB charging port are fantastic. However, the limited storage space and lack of external pockets may be a downside for those needing more versatility. Ideal if you’re a light packer o focused on tech organisation.
Pros:
Perfect Size for Ryanair Flights: Specifically designed to meet Ryanair’s strict 40x20x25 cm personal item requirements, ensuring hassle-free boarding.
Spacious and Efficient Layout: Despite its compact size, it offers enough room for essentials like a change of clothes, toiletries, and tech gear.
Durable Construction: Made from sturdy, water-resistant materials to withstand frequent travel.
Comfortable Carry Options: Includes both backpack straps and a top handle, giving flexibility for carrying styles.
Lightweight Design: Easy to carry even when fully packed, ideal for budget travelers trying to avoid extra fees.
Multiple Compartments: Features pockets for organization, including a dedicated spot for documents and smaller accessories.
Affordable Price: A budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.
Cons:
Not Suitable for Larger Items: Limited to smaller essentials due to its compact size, so it’s not ideal for trips requiring bulkier gear.
Minimal Padding: Backpack straps and internal compartments lack extra padding, which could be uncomfortable or risky for fragile items.
Basic Aesthetic: Focuses on functionality over style, which might not appeal to those looking for a sleek or trendy bag.
Limited Use Beyond Ryanair: Its small dimensions are great for Ryanair, but may feel restrictive for other uses or longer trips.
No Laptop Compartment: Does not have a dedicated, padded sleeve for laptops or tablets, which could be a drawback for digital nomads.
Final Verdict:
The Ltemziiy Ryanair Cabin Bag is a must-have if you are flying on Ryanair and want to avoid baggage fees. Its compact size and practical design make it a fantastic budget option for short trips. However, it’s best suited if you are a light packer or using it as a secondary bag, as its storage capacity and padding are limited. Perfect for no-frills travellers prioritising functionality over style.
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port
Pros:
Built-in USB Charging Port: Makes it convenient to charge your devices while on the go (requires your own power bank).
Spacious Design: Offers multiple compartments for organization, including a padded laptop sleeve that fits laptops up to 15.6 inches.
Water-Resistant Material: Provides protection against light rain or accidental spills, keeping your belongings safe.
Comfortable to Wear: Features padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, making it ideal for extended use.
Anti-Theft Pocket: Hidden pocket on the back for securing valuable items like passports or wallets.
Versatile Design: Sleek enough for work or school but also functional for travel or daily commutes.
Affordable Price Point: Provides excellent value for its features without breaking the bank.
Cons:
No Chest or Waist Strap: Lacks additional support for heavier loads, which might be uncomfortable for long trips.
Limited Expandability: The bag is great for everyday use but may not have enough room for bulkier items or overnight trips.
USB Port Requires Setup: You’ll need to buy and carry a power bank to make use of the USB charging feature.
Minimal Water Bottle Space: Side pockets are tight and may not accommodate larger water bottles.
Basic Aesthetic: While functional, the design is simple and may not appeal to those looking for a trendier or premium look.
Final Verdict:
The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice if you want a lightweight, organised, and budget-friendly option. While it may not be ideal for longer trips or heavy loads, its USB charging port and water-resistant design make it a reliable companion for everyday use. Perfect for tech-savvy travelers who prioritise practicality over style.
FIORETTO Travel Duffle Bag with Toiletry Bag & Wet Pocket
Pros:
Perfect for EasyJet Requirements: Designed specifically to meet EasyJet’s underseat bag size restrictions (40x20x25 cm), making it hassle-free for budget airline travel.
Includes Toiletry Bag & Wet Pocket: A bonus toiletry bag and a dedicated wet pocket help separate damp or spill-prone items like toiletries or gym clothes.
Spacious and Organized: Despite its compact size, it has multiple compartments to organize clothes, tech gadgets, and personal essentials.
Lightweight Design: Easy to carry even when fully packed, reducing strain during transit.
Durable and Water-Resistant: Made from sturdy materials that can handle rough handling and light rain.
Versatile Carry Options: Features both a padded shoulder strap and top handles for convenience.
Cons:
Minimal Padding: Lacks dedicated protection for fragile electronics like laptops or tablets.
Basic Style: While functional, the design may feel too utilitarian for those looking for a stylish travel accessory.
No External Water Bottle Pocket: Missing a dedicated spot for carrying a water bottle, which can be inconvenient for longer journeys.
Less Comfortable for Extended Use: Shoulder strap lacks extensive padding, which may be uncomfortable when carried for long periods.
Final Verdict:
The FIORETTO Travel Duffle Bag is a fantastic option for EasyJet travellers and anyone flying on airlines with strict underseat baggage policies. It’s lightweight, practical, and well-organized, making it perfect for short trips or as a secondary travel bag. While it’s not the most stylish or padded option, it excels in functionality and value for money. Ideal for budget-conscious flyers looking to maximise their carry-on allowance!
FAQs: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PERSONAL ITEMS ON FLIGHTS
Can I bring two personal items on a flight?
Unfortunately, no. Most airlines strictly allow only one personal item per passenger, along with your carry-on. However, you can sometimes sneak in a small item like a purse or a jacket draped over your arm, as long as it doesn't raise eyebrows.
How do airlines define a personal item?
A personal item is any bag small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. This includes backpacks, laptop bags, purses, and small duffel bags. Essentially, it’s the item you’ll need access to during your flight.
Do airlines actually measure personal items?
Rarely, but it does happen, as I mentioned before, I’ve had my personal item bag checked once. It’s especially common on budget airlines like Spirit or Ryanair. If your bag looks oversized, gate agents may ask you to test-fit it into the sizing box. If it doesn’t fit, prepare to pay a hefty fee or have your bag checked.
Can I bring food and drinks in my personal item?
Yes, but with some caveats. Solid snacks like granola bars or sandwiches are fine. Drinks need to comply with TSA’s liquid rule, which means no liquids over 100ml unless purchased after the security checkpoint.
What happens if my personal item is too big?
If your bag doesn’t fit under the seat, you may be required to gate-check it, often at an additional fee. To avoid this, measure your bag fully packed before heading to the airport, and stick to soft-sided designs for extra flexibility.
Can I use a personal item as my only luggage?
Absolutely! For short trips or minimalist travellers, a well-organised personal item can be all you need.
Are personal items included in basic economy fares?
Yes, even on bare-bones tickets, most airlines allow one free personal item. Budget airlines like Spirit, Ryanair, or Frontier often charge for carry-ons, so knowing the rules for personal items can save you money.
Can I store my personal item in the overhead bin?
Technically, no. Personal items are supposed to go under the seat in front of you, leaving the overhead bins for carry-ons. However, if the flight is half-empty, you might get away with it.
What’s the best way to pack efficiently in a personal item?
Think layers and organisation. Use packing cubes or pouches to separate items and prioritize accessibility for in-flight needs. Keep heavier items close to your back if you’re using a backpack to maintain comfort.
What’s the difference between a personal item and a carry on? A personal item is smaller than a carry-on and must fit under the seat in front of you, while a carry-on is larger and stored in the overhead bin. Most airlines allow you to bring both, with the personal item intended for essential in-flight access.
Is there a weight limit for personal items? While most airlines focus on the size rather than the weight, some do have weight restrictions for personal items. It’s important to verify with your airline before packing.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Finding the perfect personal item bag is a journey in itself. You’ll make mistakes (we all do), but each trip is a chance to learn what works for you. Whether you’re a backpack fan or prefer a hybrid bag, the key is to prioritize comfort, size, and organisation.
Remember, the best bag is the one that makes your travel smoother. So pack light, stay organized, and happy flying!
DOWNLOAD : Travel packing list
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in world.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for wherever you’re going to and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfers from the airport.
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com.
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions on your travels on Viator or Get Your Guide.
Did you know that …
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