If you have any experience traveling by air with kids, you must have noticed that there are many items, in addition to your carry-on bag, that you need to bring on the plane. Here, the confusion arises: Can you bring those things for free, or do airlines consider them as carry-on items?
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After conducting in-depth research, I am going to write this article about the things you are allowed to bring in addition to your carry-on item for free.
But beware, different airlines may have varying policies regarding extra carry-on items, so it’s worth checking airline policies before arriving at the airport.
Personal items and carry-on:
Before moving further we need to understand the difference between these categories. Most airlines are not very strict about personal items but still, we need to know the weight and size restrictions of both.
Passengers are typically permitted to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a handbag, purse, or laptop bag. It is important to note that these items must adhere to size restrictions, as they are required to fit under the seat in front of you.
The next thing is extra items other than carry-on items which are totally free. We will discuss these items in detail.
What are free extra items other than carry-on?
Prepare to be amazed by the extensive list of items you can bring onboard during your air travel.Â
It’s common for frequent travelers to overlook certain essentials when packing smartly, such as a jacket, hat, or even an umbrella same goes in my case.Â
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with a complete list of items that you can carry on a plane without any additional charges. Let’s dive in!
Personal Baggage
1- Laptop bag or backpack
As we have already recommended in our Guide Can you bring a laptop on the plane? you can check it for more details. It is totally free and safe to bring your laptop on a plane without paying any extra fees.
2- Purse or small handbag
Don’t worry if you often forget to pack small items while traveling. Having a compact handbag can be a lifesaver, and it’s also free so it is your lucky cart for your last-minute packing as you can easily toss in your last-minute essentials without any worry. Whether it’s a purse or a shoulder bag, as long as it fits under the seat, you’re good to go.
Pro tip: Utilize your handbag’s compartments wisely. Designate specific sections for different items like your passport, phone, headphones, or even a small toiletry bag. This way, you’ll have quick access to everything you need during the flight, without having to rummage through the entire bag.
3- Briefcase or business bag
You can bring along your business document bag on the plane without paying any additional charges it will not count as a carry-on item. This means that instead of a handbag, you can also take a business briefcase with you at no extra cost.
Pro tip: Use your business document bag to keep all your important work-related materials organized and easily accessible. Dedicate specific compartments for your laptop, documents, pens, and any other essentials you may need during your flight or upon arrival. This way, you can stay productive and efficient while traveling without worrying about damaging or misplacing your valuable business items.
4- Camera bag:
I was pleasantly surprised and filled with joy when I discovered that I could bring my camera on the plane in its dedicated bag, without the fear of damage or additional baggage fees. It’s truly a relaxing feeling to know that my precious camera can safely accompany me throughout my journey.
Pro tip: Take advantage of this opportunity by investing in a high-quality, protective camera bag that suits your specific camera model. With this incredible perk, you can enjoy peace of mind and capture stunning photographs during your travels, knowing that your camera is well-protected and accessible whenever inspiration strikes.
Clothing and Outerwear
Jacket
Whether you’re traveling to a chilly destination or want to have an extra layer on hand during the flight, jackets and clothing layers are generally allowed as additional items. You can wear your jacket or carry it separately, and it won’t count toward your carry-on or personal allowance.
Clothing Layers
- Scarves
- Hats
- Caps
You are welcome to wear or carry additional clothing layers such as scarves, fancy hats, or caps without any concerns. These accessories will not be considered part of your personal items, so feel free to enjoy them as you please.
Special Considerations for Families Traveling with Children
Diaper Bag
If your baby is under two years of age and uses diapers, you can bring a diaper bag with you on most airlines without incurring any extra costs. The diaper bag will not be considered as a personal carry-on item. However, before boarding, it is important to check your airline’s official website for more detailed information.
Breast Pump or Formula Milk
If your baby is being fed formula milk or breast milk, you are generally allowed to bring a breast pump or formula milk on a plane without incurring any additional charges.
Baby Car Seat
Your FAA-approved car seat is allowed on the plane. If your baby is two years old or younger and you haven’t purchased an extra ticket, you can use your baby’s car seat on the plane and bring it with you. It is important to check the guidelines specific to your airline, as each airline has its own policies. To ensure a hassle-free journey, please refer to the official website of the airline for more information.
Stroller
You can bring a stroller on the plane with certain requirements like the stroller should be compact and collapsable. you can also gate-checked your baby’s stroller and you will get it back at the designated baggage claim area.
You can check our guide “Can you bring a stroller on a plane” for more detailed information.
Kids’ Entertainment items
You can bring Kids’ entertainment items on board free of charge like tablets, coloring books, and soft toys of small sizes.
Comfort Accessories
Neck Pillow
A neck pillow is a necessity on long flights. Don’t forget to bring it on board—it’s completely free. You can hang it with your wheeled luggage or wear it around your neck. Most airlines have no issues with passengers using neck pillows.
Umbrella
An umbrella is an essential accessory, especially when you’re traveling to a destination known for unpredictable weather. Luckily, airlines typically allow passengers to bring umbrellas on board without counting them as part of the carry-on allowance. Just make sure it fits within the size restrictions and doesn’t have any prohibited features, such as sharp points.
Duty-Free Items
If you’ve indulged in duty-free shopping at the airport, or planning to buy some gifts for family and friends from a duty-free shop, this is somewhat a clever move as it assured that you can carry those items on the plane for free. No matter if are they bulky or lightweight.
Dry Fruits and Snacks
Carrying dry fruits and snacks on a plane is an excellent way to have your preferred treats during the journey. Most airlines permit passengers to bring food items bought at the airport, including dry fruits, sandwiches, and packaged snacks.
However, it’s advisable to check if there are any restrictions on bringing fresh fruits or items that may require refrigeration.
Merchandise Bought on Airport
You can bring other products such as sunblock, a water bottle, or even takeaway food that you want to use during the flight.
The 3ml restriction on liquids will not apply since you have already passed through the security checkpoint.
Isn’t it a smart move?
Entertainment
Long flights can sometimes get monotonous, but with the right entertainment items, you can make your journey enjoyable. Here are some suggestions for entertainment items that you can carry on a plane for free:
- Books or e-readers
- Magazines or newspapers
- Portable gaming devices
- Tablets or iPads
Medication and Health
If you have any medical conditions or require regular medication, it’s crucial to have them with you during the flight. Airlines allow passengers to carry medications and other essential health items without any additional charges. Here are some examples of items related to medication and health that you can bring on a plane for free:
- Prescription medications
- Inhalers or nebulizers
- Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen)
- Insulin and diabetic supplies
- Travel-sized first aid kit
- Orthopedic devices, wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and canes, among others
It is advisable to check your Airline’s Luggage policy before arriving at the airport.
Tips for Carrying Extra Items on a Plane
Check Airline Regulations
While the items mentioned above are generally allowed on planes for free, it’s crucial to check the specific regulations of the airline you’re traveling with. Airlines may have slight variations in their policies, so reviewing their guidelines beforehand will help you avoid any surprises or potential issues at the airport.
Pack Smartly
Even though you may be allowed to carry additional items for free, it’s essential to pack smartly and consider the available storage space on the plane.
Ensure that your extra items do not hinder the comfort or safety of yourself or other passengers. Pack them in a way that they can easily fit in the overhead compartments or beneath the seat in front of you.
Be Mindful of Weight Restrictions
While many airlines do not impose specific weight restrictions on extra items, it’s still advisable to be mindful of the overall weight of your carry-on baggage. Excessive weight can lead to discomfort during transit and may also result in additional charges if your baggage exceeds the airline’s weight limits.
Conclusion
Understanding what extra items you can carry on a plane for free is beneficial for every traveler. By making the most of your baggage allowance and adhering to airline regulations, you can have a more comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Whether it’s duty-free purchases, jackets and clothing layers, strollers, umbrellas, or dry fruits, being aware of the items you can bring on board will help you plan and pack more efficiently. Remember to always check with your specific airline for the most up-to-date information on their policies, ensuring a smooth travel experience.
