Can You Bring A Blanket On A Plane? Personal Carry On Items Allowed
Long plane rides are no fun when you are shivering in your seat. Which makes us question does a blanket count as a carry on? Traveling with a blanket is always a great idea.
Whether you’re planning a long flight or have a connecting flight with a long layover, you may want to bring a blanket on your travels.
This may include bringing a baby blanket or your favorite blanket from home, just make sure that it is not too big. This way you can stay warm without taking up too much space.
Whether you are traveling on long domestic flights to the other side of the country or just on short trips to another city, airport temperatures tend to be on the cooler side. For these reasons, it is important to be prepared for any situation.
Here is the scoop on answering the question does a blanket count as a carry on!
All About Traveling
Airplanes have become increasingly cramped in recent years, so the less you have to bring with you, the better. But if you’re trying to save money by avoiding checked bag fees and extra charges, you’ll need to know what you can pack in your carry-on luggage.
One item that often causes confusion is a blanket. One common question is whether or not you can bring a travel blanket on a plane.
Passengers often wonder, does a blanket count as a carry on? After all, it can get cold on a plane, and a blanket is a great way to stay comfortable.
While some planes give out free blankets, airline blankets are not the most comfortable. Airplane blankets are typically thin scratchy blankets that are uncomfortable. The typical airline blanket is not something that you will want to travel with, so it is best to bring your own.
Restrictions on blankets vary by airline. So, it’s always best to check with your carrier before packing a blanket in your carry-on. Different airlines have different rules and baggage allowance.
Make sure to check your specific airlines’ rules. It’s best to check in with the TSA website for current TSA regulations.
If you still have questions, call TSA. The official website has a number that you can call to talk to TSA officers.
Also, you can always find updates on restrictions in newspapers or an external site like the wall street journal. If guidelines are not followed, you will not make it past security checks.
Can You Bring A Blanket on A Plane?
The short answer is yes, you can usually bring your own blanket on a plane as long as it meets the size and weight restrictions for carry-on items.
Otherwise, you may not make it through the security checkpoint. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when packing a blanket for your flight.
You can use blankets to keep warm during the flight or to create a makeshift bed. However, if you plan on using the blanket as a neck pillow, make sure that it is soft and comfortable.
Many airlines will have flight attendants provide a travel pillow and blanket for passengers on longer flights, but they may not be the most comfortable option. However, it is better than leaning your head against a new window. Since you’ll have to carry your pillow or blanket through airports, you’ll want to pick one that’s easy to transport.
So, a weighted blanket is not the best idea for air travel, especially if you or someone in your party needs physical assistance or assistive devices.
If you are traveling with medical devices, medical equipment, and mobility aids, you may want to consider leaving a blanket at home. A blanket can get in the way of your mobility devices.
Also, most planes do not have outlets. If anything, they have USB charging ports for mobile devices. Plus, planes don’t allow lithium batteries.
So electric blankets of any kind are not a good idea to bring to the airport. If you would like to still bring it, just buy spare batteries once you get to your destination.
Size and Weight Restrictions
The first thing to consider when packing a blanket for your flight is the size and weight limits for carry-on items. Most airline companies have similar restrictions, but it’s always best to check with your specific airline before packing.
In general, you are allowed to bring one carry-on item and one personal item on board with you since there’s only so much space on a commercial airplane and there’s not much space for passengers, especially those in economy class on budget airlines.
Of course, it usually depends on the aircraft type, but the average person of average size and average height does not even have much room in any aircraft cabin.
Your carry-on item must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, and it cannot weigh more than 40 pounds or you will not even make it to airport security.
Your personal item can be anything from a purse or smaller bag to a backpack, a laptop case, or a camera bag. It must fit under the seat in front of you, and it cannot weigh more than 15 pounds.
So, as long as your blanket is small enough to fit in your carry-on baggage or personal item and doesn’t weigh more than 40 pounds, you should be able to bring it on board with you.
Packing Your Blanket
Once you’ve determined that your regular blanket meets the size and weight restrictions for carry-on items, you need to make sure you pack it properly.
First, fold your blanket so that it is compact and easy to carry. If it is a large blanket, you may want to roll it up instead or it could be a security risk.
Next, make sure your blanket is clean and free of any stains or dirt. You don’t want to bring a dirty blanket on a plane, as it could make the seat and surrounding area dirty.
Finally, pack your blanket in a carry-on bag that is sturdy and has plenty of room. You don’t want your blanket to get wrinkled or damaged during the flight, so make sure it is well-protected in your bag.
Airlines That Allow Blankets as Carry-On Items
Most airlines allow blankets as carry-on items, aka hand luggage, but there are a few major airlines that have specific restrictions and specific rules.
For example, American Airlines, one of the most famous international airlines, only allows blankets that are small enough to fit in your main carry-on bag and personal item.
The blanket cannot be larger than 36 inches by 45 inches. So you won’t want to bring a gigantic picnic blanket as a carry-on during an American Airlines flight.
Southwest Airlines has a similar policy, and they also recommend that you pack your blanket in a soft-sided bag to prevent wrinkles.
If you’re traveling with Delta Airlines or Spirit Airlines, you are allowed to bring a blanket on board, but it must be placed in a clear plastic bag before boarding. The blanket cannot be larger than 60 inches by 36 inches or the transportation security administration will not allow it.
Finally, United Airlines, an airline in the united states, doesn’t have any specific restrictions on blankets, but they recommend that you pack them in a carry-on bag to prevent them from getting wrinkled.
Other Items That Count As Carry-Ons
In addition to blankets, there are lots of items that also count as carry-on items.
For example, most airlines allow you to bring a small backpack or purse on board with you. These items must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, and they cannot weigh more than 40 pounds.
If you are traveling with a small child, you may need to bring the following items: diaper bags, child safety seats, or even containers for breast milk. Many airlines recommend a quart-sized bag of liquids for things like this.
You can also bring a laptop case or camera bag on board as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. These items cannot weigh more than 15 pounds.
Finally, you are allowed to bring a coat or jacket on board with you. This item must be placed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. You can also wear these clothes to make a fashion statement!
Tips for Traveling with a Blanket
If you’re planning on traveling with a blanket, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier.
First, choose a blank that is made from a material that is easy to clean and care for. This will make it easier to keep your blanket clean during your trip.
Second, pack your blanket in a bag that is easy to carry and has plenty of room. This will make it easier to transport your blanket through the airport and onto the plane.
Many travelers suggest bringing a duffel bag or another small bag like a laptop bag as your carry-on as a better choice for carrying your blanket.
Finally, make sure you pack your blanket in a way that will prevent it from getting wrinkled. This will ensure that your blanket is comfortable to use and looks its best when you arrive at your final destination.
Why Are There Restrictions On Carry On Items?
There are a few reasons why airlines have restrictions on what items can be carried on board.
First, these restrictions help to keep the aircraft clean. Blankets and other items that are brought on board can get dirty and cause the seat and surrounding area to become dirty.
Second, these restrictions help to keep the aircraft safe. Large items that are brought on board can become loose and pose a safety hazard during the flight. For instance, dry ice, pepper spray, and sharp objects are not allowed.
Finally, these restrictions help to keep the aircraft organized. If everyone brought a large blanket on board, it would be difficult to store all of the blankets in the overhead bins.
What Should You Do If Your Blanket Doesn’t Meet The Restrictions?
If your blanket doesn’t meet the restrictions for carry-on items, you can try to check it with your luggage. There is no guarantee that your blanket will be allowed on the plane.
If you have any other large bags or items like musical instruments your airline will make you check these and there will likely be an extra charge.
If you’re not able to bring your blanket on the plane, you can try to find a place to store it before your flight. Many airports have storage areas where you can leave your belongings while you’re gone.
You can also try to find a friend or family member who is willing to hold onto your blanket for you. Just make sure that you give them clear instructions on how to return the blanket to you when you return from your trip.
Finally, you can try to find a hotel or other business that will allow you to store your blanket while you’re away. Just make sure to call ahead and ask about their policies.
What Are The Best Blankets For Travel?
There are a few different types of blankets that are great for travel.
First, you’ll want to choose a blanket that is made from a lightweight material. This will make it easier to transport and store your blanket.
Second, you’ll want to choose a blanket that is easy to clean and care for. This will make it easier to keep your blanket clean while you’re on the go.
Finally, you’ll want to choose a blanket that is comfortable to use. This will ensure that you’re able to get a good night’s sleep while you’re away from home.
Things to Remember
Bringing a blanket on a long-haul flight is the best way to stay warm and comfortable during your flight. However, you need to make sure that your blanket meets the size and weight restrictions for carry-on items.
You also need to pack your blanket in a way that will prevent it from getting wrinkled or damaged. There are so many reasons that people travel on long-haul international flights where you may want a blanket.
Even if you are not yet on your flight and just waiting in the airport charging any mobile phones, you may want to cover up and stay warm.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to bring your blanket on a plane without any problems.
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