Personal Item vs. Carry‑On: What’s the Difference?
Key takeaway: A personal item must fit under the seat in front of you; a carry‑on goes in the overhead bin. Many airlines publish sizes for both—always defer to your airline’s posted policy.
Definitions
- Personal item — A smaller bag (e.g., laptop backpack, tote, briefcase) that fits fully under‑seat without forcing it.
- Carry‑on — The larger cabin bag (typically a roller) intended for the overhead bin.
Typical posted sizes (reference)
| Item | Common U.S. reference | Common international reference |
|---|---|---|
| Personal item | ~ 18 × 14 × 8 in | ~ 40 × 30 × 15 cm |
| Carry‑on | ~ 22 × 14 × 9 in | ~ 55 × 40 × 20–23 cm |
Under‑seat fit matters
Under‑seat dimensions vary by aircraft and seat row. Aim for soft‑sided bags that compress and avoid rigid shells for personal items. If an airline publishes under‑seat dimensions, compare your external L × W × H.
How to choose: personal item or carry‑on?
- Short trips / basic economy: A well‑packed personal item avoids overhead restrictions and boarding group issues.
- Standard economy / longer trips: Use a carry‑on within posted size (and weight, if enforced) to maximize capacity.
- Regional jets: Even compliant carry‑ons may be gate‑checked; keep essentials in your personal item.
Reality check: Enforcement varies by route and crew. Borderline dimensions can be challenged at the gate—err on the smaller side.
Measuring tips
- Measure external size including wheels/handles.
- For “linear” rules, use L + W + H.
- Compare against your airline’s posted limits (see Airlines A–Z).
Weight policies
Some carriers, especially outside the U.S., enforce carry‑on weight limits. If your airline posts a limit, weigh at home and add weight in the checker to see warnings.
Quick comparison
| Personal item | Carry‑on | |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Under seat | Overhead bin |
| Typical size | ≈ 18×14×8 in / 40×30×15 cm | ≈ 22×14×9 in / 55×40×20–23 cm |
| Enforcement | Visual check; must fit under‑seat | Sizer frames; sometimes weight checks |
| Risk of gate check | Low (if soft‑sided) | Moderate on small/regional aircraft |
Check your airline’s limits Open the Carry‑On Checker