Not sure if your weekender bag counts as a carry-on?
It’s a common traveller dilemma—show up at the gate and find out your go-to bag doesn’t fit the airline’s rules.
Here’s how to know for sure—and what to look for in a weekender duffel that flies.
Understanding Airline Carry-On Policies
A piece of carry-on luggage is luggage you’re allowed to bring into the cabin, typically stored in the overhead bin. Most airlines limit carry-ons to around 55 x 35 x 23 cm (or 22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 7–10 kg in weight, though exact rules vary.
It's important to note the difference between a carry-on and a personal item. A carry-on goes overhead, while a personal item (like a small backpack or compact foldable duffel weekender) must fit under the seat in front of you.
Weekender Bags: Size and Design Considerations
Weekender bags are designed for short trips, with typical dimensions ranging from 45 to 55 cm in length. They often feature soft sides, open interiors, and a mix of carry handles and shoulder straps for flexibility.
Many fall within airline carry-on limits, especially soft-sided luggage styles that can compress to fit overhead bins. However, some oversized or heavily packed weekenders may exceed size restrictions—particularly on budget airlines with tighter rules.
Always check your bag’s measurements and compare them with your airline’s carry-on policy before flying.
For example, the new Globite Morgan Weekender fits within most airline carry-on guidelines, with a soft-sided design that allows slight compression to meet overhead bin requirements.
Weekender Bags as Personal Items
While weekender bags are often used as carry-ons, smaller versions can sometimes count as personal items—especially if they fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. This is useful if you're flying with both a rolling carry-on and a secondary bag.
Airlines typically require personal items to be smaller than carry-ons, usually under 40 x 30 x 20 cm (16" x 12" x 8"), though exact limits vary. The bag must be soft-sided and flexible enough to slide under the seat without blocking the aisle or encroaching on your legroom.
If you’re packing light and keeping it minimal, a smaller weekender can be the perfect personal item.
Tips for Traveling with a Weekender Bag
To make the most of your weekender bag, start by packing smart. Stick to versatile clothing, roll instead of fold to save space, and use packing cubes or compression bags to keep everything organised and compact.
Don’t overfill your bag, especially if you’re aiming to use it as a carry-on or personal item—airlines can be strict about size and weight limits.
When choosing a weekender bag for air travel, look for key features like soft sides for flexibility, structured compartments to separate shoes or toiletries, a pass-through sleeve for stacking on rolling luggage, and adjustable straps for comfortable carrying. Lightweight yet durable materials like nylon or canvas are ideal for travel, offering both resilience and ease of use.
Lastly, always double-check your airline’s carry-on and personal item rules before your trip. Size allowances can vary between carriers, and even a few centimetres can mean the difference between bringing your bag on board or checking it at the gate.
