Can You Put a Purse Inside a Carry-On?
Why You Should Definitely Put Your Purse Inside the Carry-On
Airlines have become notorious for charging extra fees on everything from checked luggage to seat selection. By placing your purse inside your carry-on, you could avoid being charged for an extra personal item. It’s a clever trick that many seasoned travelers swear by, especially on budget airlines that allow only one free bag. This tip alone can save you anywhere from $20 to $75 per trip, depending on the airline.
But Isn’t a Purse a “Personal Item”?
Technically, most airlines define a personal item as something small like a purse, laptop bag, or backpack. However, this is where things get tricky. Some budget airlines, like Spirit or Ryanair, strictly enforce a “one bag only” policy, and that bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. In this case, a purse outside the carry-on counts as a separate bag and can lead to fees.
That’s why it’s a smart move to put the purse inside the carry-on bag before boarding. Once you’re on the plane, you can pull it out again, no problem. It’s a loophole that works like a charm on most airlines, and one that frequent flyers know all too well.
Size Matters: What Type of Purse Are We Talking About?
Not all purses are created equal. While a small clutch can easily slide into your carry-on, a large tote might be a tighter fit. Measure your purse and carry-on dimensions to ensure everything will work out smoothly. Most airlines allow carry-ons measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), and personal items typically shouldn’t exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). If your purse is pushing the limit, you might need to rethink your packing strategy.
The Power of Strategic Packing
Packing smart isn’t just about fitting more things into less space—it’s about understanding airline rules and maximizing your carry-on's potential. Here’s a simple breakdown to keep your purse in your carry-on:
| Type of Bag | Typical Dimensions | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Purse | 10 x 7 x 3 inches | Place in carry-on until you pass boarding, then pull it out once seated. |
| Tote Bag | 15 x 12 x 5 inches | If it’s too large, roll it up and pack it flat at the bottom of your carry-on. |
| Backpack | 18 x 14 x 8 inches | Consider using this as your only carry-on or compress it to fit into a larger suitcase. |
By putting your purse inside the carry-on, you’re playing by the rules while keeping things convenient. You’ll breeze past gate agents without worrying about extra fees, and when you finally board, your purse will be right there for easy access.
What Happens If You Don’t Put Your Purse Inside the Carry-On?
Let’s say you decide to bring your purse and carry-on separately, assuming you’ll get away with it. Best case scenario? No one notices, and you board without a hitch. Worst case scenario? You’re hit with a surprise fee at the gate. I’ve personally seen passengers forced to check their carry-on at the last minute because of this, and it’s a frustrating experience you’ll want to avoid.
If your purse is too large or you’re carrying multiple items, be prepared for scrutiny. Airline agents are trained to spot passengers who exceed the bag limit, and they often enforce the rules right at the gate. Not only is this embarrassing, but it can also delay your boarding and add unnecessary stress to your travel experience.
Travel Hacks to Maximize Space
Here are some tips for optimizing the space in your carry-on so that your purse fits comfortably:
Use Packing Cubes: These are a game-changer. By compressing your clothes, packing cubes create more room in your carry-on, leaving space for your purse.
Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling your clothes allows you to fit more into smaller spaces. Plus, this technique reduces wrinkles, making it perfect for business travelers.
Wear Bulky Items: Save space by wearing your heaviest shoes, jacket, or sweater while traveling. This frees up valuable room inside your bag for your purse or other essentials.
Airline-Specific Policies You Should Know About
Different airlines have varying policies regarding carry-ons and personal items. Here’s a quick rundown of the major U.S. airlines and their rules:
| Airline | Carry-On Size Limit | Personal Item Limit | Additional Fees for Extra Items? |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 18 x 14 x 8 inches | $30-$60 for extra bags |
| Delta Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 18 x 14 x 8 inches | $25-$60 for extra bags |
| Spirit Airlines | 22 x 18 x 10 inches | 18 x 14 x 8 inches | $20-$65 for extra personal items |
| Southwest | 24 x 16 x 10 inches | 16 x 10 x 8 inches | Free carry-on and personal item |
| United Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 17 x 10 x 9 inches | $25-$50 for extra personal items |
As you can see, while some airlines like Southwest are more lenient, others like Spirit charge heavily for additional bags.
Exceptions and Considerations
Some travelers, like those with medical devices or parents with infants, may be allowed extra items, even beyond the purse and carry-on. Be sure to check your airline’s policy beforehand if you think you might qualify for these exceptions.
Also, take note of weight restrictions. Many airlines have strict weight limits for carry-on bags, particularly international carriers. While most U.S. airlines don’t weigh carry-ons, European and Asian airlines often do. If you’re packing a heavy purse, it could tip the scales.
Conclusion: The Secret to Hassle-Free Travel
To sum it up: Yes, you can absolutely put a purse inside a carry-on, and doing so is a smart, strategic choice. You’ll avoid fees, streamline your boarding process, and keep all your essentials close at hand.
With the right packing techniques and awareness of airline policies, you can travel light without sacrificing convenience. So, next time you’re packing for a trip, don’t hesitate—slide that purse into your carry-on and travel smarter.
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