Personal item or carry-on? What to do if you’re flying Basic Economy or a budget airline

If you’re trying to satisfy that travel itch on a budget, booking budget airlines or basic economy flights may be the way to go. But in a culture where we just have a lot of “stuff” is it worth it to sacrifice the space and travel light to save a buck?

How to choose

Sometimes the price difference between Basic Economy and Economy Class is marginal. For instance, according to Nerdwallet.com, the difference between the two classes for United Airlines is $76. However, if you check in a bag, it costs $35. Plus, all the other sacrifices you make by being in Basic Economy (no refunds, last boarding group, etc.), that $41 you are saving, may not actually be worthwhile.

However, if you’re escaping for 48 hours in Salt Lake City or going on a 72-hour adventure in Bradford, PA, choosing a budget airline or Basic Economy, may be the perfect solution to a short weekend getaway.

What’s Included in a Personal Item or Carry-On

For most budget airlines, like Frontier or Spirit, only a personal item is allowed, and some major airlines, such as JetBlue and United, enforce the same restriction. This varies per major airline though; for example, American Airlines and Delta, allows you a personal item and a carry-on.

So, how big are we talking? The personal item is not very large, with maximum capacity being 8 inches x 14 inches x 18 inches, equivalent to a purse, small backpack, or a laptop bag.

A popular question many people ask is: “Is a backpack considered a personal item?” And the answer most airlines give is, “If it fits under the seat in front of you, it’s considered a personal item.”

A standard carry-on, by comparison, is maximum 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches. The difference doesn’t seem to be much, but when you’re squeezing in an additional outfit or a book to read, those extra inches are significant!

What to Pack in a Personal Item or Carry-On

If you choose to opt for only a personal item, the key is to pack lightly and efficiently. Pack versatile outfits – like a pair of jeans or tights, that can be used more than once. Wear any boots, sneakers, or bulky footwear, and use the “roll-up” method to pack other items of clothes. Ballet flats can also easily “roll-up” into your pack if you need an extra pair of shoes. Pack travel-sized versions of all toiletries, including toothpaste and deodorant in a small Ziplock pouch. Don’t forget any travel documents and electronics, too. Don’t pack for ‘what-if’ situations (i.e., what if it rains, do I need an umbrella?), pack just for what you need. Bottom line? If you’re going to fly Basic Economy or through a budget airline, be prepared to pack only your essentials, and be mindful of the space you have.