What to keep within reach during your flight, and how to make the most of your overhead and under-seat space.
Your carry-on and personal item are the two bags you keep with you on the plane. Knowing what belongs in each — and what you can access mid-flight — makes your journey significantly more comfortable.
Most airlines allow one carry-on (overhead bin) and one personal item (under seat). The carry-on holds the bulk of your belongings. Your personal item should hold everything you might want during the flight, since your carry-on goes in the overhead bin and is harder to reach once you are seated.
Standard carry-on allowance for most US airlines is 22" x 14" x 9" including wheels and handles. Budget carriers tend to be stricter. Always check your specific airline before flying, especially on international legs with partner carriers that may have different rules.
A personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow approximately 18" x 14" x 8". A standard backpack, small tote, or laptop bag fits within these dimensions. This is the free bag on budget carriers.
Keep in your personal item everything you want accessible during the flight:
Your overhead carry-on holds the majority of your trip clothing and gear. Organize it with packing cubes so you can find the one item you need without unpacking everything:
All liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, all fitting in a single quart-sized clear zip-top bag. One bag per passenger. This applies to both your carry-on and personal item. Take this bag out at the security checkpoint along with your laptop.