Carry-on vs. checked bag: Which is best for your trip?
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When it comes to packing for a trip involving a commercial flight, deciding between a carry-on or checked bag can be a dilemma. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and preferences. Let's compare these two types of luggage to help you determine which is best for you and your kids on your next trip.
1. Carry-on bags
A carry-on bag is a smaller piece of luggage that can be taken on board a commercial plane with you, typically placed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Some pros and cons of using a carry-on bag include:
Pros
No check-in required, saving time and potential baggage fees
Easier to transport around the airport and during layovers
Less risk of lost or damaged luggage
No waiting around in the baggage area to collect your luggage
Cons
Limited space for packing, especially if you're a heavy packer or going on an extended trip
Must adhere to airline regulations for size and weight restrictions
Limited overhead and under-seat space
Limits your ability to take additional carry-on personal items
You might have to check carry-on luggage anyway if overhead compartments full
2. Checked bags
A checked bag is a larger piece of luggage that is checked in by the airline and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Some pros and cons of using a checked bag include:
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Pros
More space for packing, allowing you to bring more items or bulkier items
Greater weight and size allowances
You can pack liquids and other approved items that aren’t allowed through security
Cons
Many airlines charge additional fees for checked bags, especially on budget airlines
Must wait at baggage claim upon arrival
Higher risk of lost or damaged luggage
Bag policies for kids
If you are traveling with children, it's important to know the specific baggage policies for kids. Most airlines allow children under the age of two to travel for free as lap infants, meaning they can sit on your lap during the flight. However, this also means that they do not have their own baggage allowance and will need to share yours.
For older children who require their own seat, they typically have the same baggage allowance as adults. However, it's wise to check with your airline beforehand, as some may offer discounted or complimentary baggage allowances for families traveling with young children.
Flying with kids: TSA rules
When traveling with kids, it's important to know what items you can and cannot bring in your carry-on or checked baggage. This includes liquids, such as baby formula or breast milk, which are exempt from the standard liquid restrictions.
Other essential items for children, such as strollers and car seats, are usually allowed to be checked in at the gate without additional fees. However, it's always best to check with your specific airline beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary information and meet the criteria. Some airlines may also offer discounted or complimentary baggage allowances for families traveling with young children.
In terms of security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules and guidelines for traveling with kids. All children under the age of 18 are exempt from the TSA's strict identification requirements, as they do not require a government-issued ID. However, if your child is between the ages of 13 and 17, they will need to present a boarding pass or other form of identification at security checkpoints.
When going through security, parents can bring breast milk, formula, juice, and baby food in reasonable quantities necessary for their journey. These items do not need to fit in a quart-sized bag like other liquids but must be declared to the TSA officer.
How to decide which is best for your trip
Take a carry-on if:
You are going on a short trip or business trip.
You need to travel efficiently with minimal luggage.
You have connecting flights or need to exit the airport quickly.
You are an efficient packer who can fit everything in a carry-on.
Check a bag if:
You are going on a longer trip or vacation and need more luggage capacity.
You prefer to have more options and space for your belongings.
You need to pack items that cannot go through security, such as liquids over a certain volume.
Free checked bag hacks
Some airlines offer a free checked bag with certain credit cards or loyalty programs. Consider signing up for these to save money on baggage fees.
If your flight is full, your gate agent may ask the crowd if anyone bringing a carry-on would like to check a bag for free to save space in the cabin. At this point, you can have your bag checked for free instead of paying to check it at the ticket counter. This trick doesn't always work, but it is a common scenario.
Travel essentials FAQs: Carry-on vs checked bag
Q: Can I bring a carry-on and checked bag on my flight?
A: This depends on the airline's regulations and if you are willing to pay for both. Most airlines allow one carry-on and one checked bag per passenger, but some may charge for each piece of luggage.
Q: Will my carry-on fit in the overhead bin?
A: It's important to check the size and weight restrictions for carry-on bags before your flight. If your bag exceeds these limits, you may be required to check it at the gate or pay an additional fee.
Q: Is paying for a checked bag worth it?
A: It depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you are traveling for a short trip or can pack efficiently in a carry-on, then it may not be worth the cost. However, if you need more space for your belongings or are going on a longer trip, the convenience of checking a bag may outweigh the extra fee and time.
Q: How do I avoid overweight charges for my luggage?
A: It's important to weigh your luggage before heading to the airport using a home scale. Make sure the weight is within the airline's limits. Reorganize or remove items if necessary to avoid overweight fees, which can be quite costly.
Q: What items are prohibited in a carry-on bag?
A: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict rules on what can be carried on board. This includes restrictions on liquids, which must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a single quart-sized bag, and sharp objects or weapons of any kind. Check the TSA website for a detailed list of prohibited items.
Q: Can I bring food in my carry-on?
A: You can usually bring food in your carry-on, but it must comply with TSA's liquid rules if applicable. Solid foods like sandwiches and snacks are typically allowed on domestic flights. Always check the TSA guidelines or your airline's policies for specifics, and also for international flights, which can have greater restrictions on things like food and agricultural items.
Q: What are the standard size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage?
A: Luggage size restrictions can vary by carrier. Many of the major domestic service providers say carry-on luggage should not exceed 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high and must fit either under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Weight restrictions also vary by airline, but in general, carry-on items should be manageable for the passenger to lift into the overhead space. Especially as some airline staff may be prohibited by law to assist.
Q: Can I bring a personal item in addition to my carry-on bag?
A: Most commercial airlines - but not all - allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. The personal item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Check with your specific airline for the dimension requirements of a personal item.
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