When it comes to traveling, one of the biggest concerns for many is how to properly pack and bring all the necessary items without having to pay extra for checked baggage. One item that often causes confusion is the garment bag.

Many people rely on a garment bag to keep their suits and dresses wrinkle-free during flights, but are unsure whether it will be counted as carry-on or checked baggage. In this article, we aim to provide a definitive answer on whether garment bags count as carry-on baggage on flights and offer tips on how to avoid having to pay for checked baggage when bringing a garment bag.

We will also provide recommendations for suitable garment bags for air travel and essential packing tips to avoid luggage nightmares. So, this article will help you to understand the rules and regulations of carrying a garment bag on a flight.

Garment Bags as Carry-On Luggage

General rule

Garment bags do not typically count as part of the carry-on allowance for air travel. This means that if you bring a garment bag, it will likely be considered as a separate piece of luggage and may be subject to additional fees if it exceeds the carry-on size and weight restrictions.

Exceptions

However, some airlines do allow garment bags to be carried as hand luggage. This means that they do not count towards your carry-on allowance and you may still be able to bring an additional rolling bag as well. It’s important to check with the specific airline you’re flying with to confirm their baggage policies and whether they allow garment bags as hand luggage. Some airlines may have specific guidelines for garment bags, such as allowing them to be stored in an onboard closet, or may require them to be a certain size and weight. By checking with the airline, you can plan ahead and avoid any unexpected fees or issues at the airport.

TBE Garment Bag Recommendation

When it comes to choosing a garment bag for air travel, there are a few key features to look for to ensure it meets airline guidelines and will keep your clothes wrinkle-free during your trip.

A good option is the Samsonite Luggage Andante Wheeled Garment Bag, which has a durable construction, multiple compartments, and a telescoping handle for easy transport. This bag is made of water-resistant fabric to protect your clothes from rain, it has a built-in hanger clamp, and multiple pockets for additional storage.

This bag also has a telescoping handle and wheels for easy transport through the airport. It’s also lightweight and has a slim design, which makes it easy to store in overhead compartments. With this bag, you can keep your suit or dress wrinkle-free, and you can also store your other essentials separately.

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When Does Your Garment Bag Count as Carry-On Luggage?

A garment bag may be considered as carry-on luggage if it meets the specific size and weight requirements of the airline you are traveling with. This means that it must be small enough to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you, and it should not exceed the weight limit for carry-on baggage. Most airlines have specific size and weight guidelines for carry-on baggage on their websites, so it is important to check these before your flight.

Additionally, some airlines may have specific guidelines for garment bags. For example, they may allow garment bags to be stored in an onboard closet, or they may have a maximum length or width requirement. It’s important to check with the specific airline you’re flying with to confirm their baggage policies and whether they allow garment bags as hand luggage.

Furthermore, it is also important to note that even if your garment bag meets the size and weight requirements, it may still be considered as checked baggage if it exceeds the number of allowed carry-on items. Thus, it’s important to check the number of allowed items, weight and size limit before you pack your bag.

In summary, whether a garment bag is considered as carry-on or checked luggage depends on the size, weight, and airline specific guidelines. It’s best to check with your airline to confirm their baggage policies and ensure your garment bag meets the requirements.

Tips to Avoid Having Your Garment Bag Count as Carry-On or Checked Baggage

Buy a rolling bag with a garment bag compartment: One way to avoid having your garment bag counted as carry-on or checked baggage is to purchase a rolling bag with a dedicated garment bag compartment. This type of bag is designed specifically for air travel and allows you to keep your suit or dress wrinkle-free while also keeping it separate from your other belongings. This way, you will be able to use it as an additional carry-on item and can avoid any extra fees.

Choose airlines that allow you to keep your garment bag in an onboard closet: Some airlines have onboard closets or other storage options for garment bags. By choosing these airlines, you can keep your garment bag separate from your other belongings, and it will not be considered as part of your carry-on allowance.

Go for a sturdy garment bag: A sturdy and durable garment bag will not only protect your clothes but also it can be a good option for air travel. A good quality bag will last longer and can withstand the rigors of air travel, including being tossed around by baggage handlers.

Consider buying suits made of wrinkle-free material: Some fabrics, such as polyester, are more wrinkle-resistant than others. By choosing suits or dresses made of wrinkle-free material, you may be able to pack them in a regular suitcase instead of a garment bag, which can help you avoid having to pay for checked baggage.

Invest in a Portable Garment Steamer: A portable garment steamer can be a great investment for travelers. It will allow you to remove wrinkles from your clothes while you’re on the go, eliminating the need for a garment bag altogether. This way, you can pack your suits and dresses in a regular suitcase and avoid having to pay for checked baggage.

Essential Packing Tips to Avoid Luggage Nightmares

Roll your clothes, don’t fold: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space in your luggage and reduce wrinkles. By rolling, you’ll be able to fit more clothes in your bag and keep them wrinkle-free.

Always check the luggage policy of the airline: Before your trip, it’s important to check the luggage policy of the airline you’re flying with. This includes the size and weight restrictions for carry-on and checked baggage, as well as any additional fees or restrictions. Knowing this information in advance can help you plan and pack accordingly, and avoid any unexpected surprises at the airport.

Consider the length of the trip: When packing, it’s important to consider the length of your trip. For shorter trips, you’ll likely need less clothing and can pack lighter. For longer trips, you’ll need to pack more clothing and may need to bring a larger bag or pay for checked baggage.

Don’t forget: Your carry-on luggage may be checked at the gate before boarding: Some airlines may check carry-on bags at the gate before boarding if the overhead compartments are full. To avoid having to check your bag, pack essentials and important items in a small personal item that you can keep with you, such as a purse or a laptop bag.

Pack clothing and essentials with the destination in mind: Consider the destination’s climate and typical activities when packing. Pack clothing and essentials that are appropriate for the weather and activities you’ll be doing. This will help you pack more efficiently, and avoid over-packing or forgetting important items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food on a flight?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring their own food on flights, but there may be restrictions on liquids and gels. It’s best to check with the specific airline’s website for their policies on bringing food on board.

What restrictions are there for shaving blades and toiletries?

Most airlines have restrictions on the amount of liquids and gels that can be brought in carry-on bags, including toiletries. These items must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Shaving blades also have restrictions, they must be packed in checked baggage.

Can I bring a lighter on a plane?

Lighters are not allowed in carry-on bags, but they may be packed in checked baggage. However, it is always best to check with the specific airline’s website for their policies on lighters.

Can I bring a soft-sided garment bag as a carry-on?

Some airlines do allow soft-sided garment bags as carry-on luggage, but it’s best to check with the specific airline’s website for their policies.

Are garment bags allowed as carry-on luggage on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, as long as they comply with size and weight restrictions. Garment bags may be considered as carry-on baggage as long as they meet the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags.

Are garment bags allowed as carry-on luggage on Delta Airlines?

Delta Airlines allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, as long as they comply with size and weight restrictions. Garment bags may be considered as carry-on baggage as long as they meet the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags.

Can I check a garment bag as luggage?

Yes, you can check a garment bag as luggage, but you will be subject to the airline’s checked baggage fees.

Are garment bags worth it?

Whether a garment bag is worth it or not depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you frequently travel with suits or dresses that need to be kept wrinkle-free, a garment bag can be a useful investment.

Are garment bags allowed as carry-on luggage on Delta Airlines?

Delta Airlines allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, as long as they comply with size and weight restrictions. Garment bags may be considered as carry-on baggage as long as they meet the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags.

Does a suit bag count as a carry-on on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, as long as they comply with size and weight restrictions. Garment bags may be considered as carry-on baggage as long as they meet the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags.

Does a suit bag count as a carry-on on Ryanair?

Ryanair’s baggage policy for carry-on baggage states that a passenger is allowed to bring one bag on board, with a maximum size of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and a maximum weight of 10kg. Garment bags may be considered as carry-on baggage as long as they meet the size and weight requirements.

What are the dimensions for a suit bag?

The dimensions of a suit bag can vary depending on the brand and model. It is best to check the product’s specifications or the airline’s guidelines for maximum size.

Can I bring a wheeled garment bag as a carry-on?

Some airlines do allow wheeled garment bags as carry-on luggage, but it’s best to check with the specific airline’s website for their policies. Make sure that the bag meets the size and weight requirements for carry-on bags and that it can be easily stored in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.