Does a Neck Pillow Count as a Personal Item?

Does a Neck Pillow Count as a Personal Item?

Traveling can be tricky, especially when it comes to packing. If you’ve ever wondered whether your comfy neck pillow counts as a personal item on a flight, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into this topic and clear things up!

Quick answer: Generally, a neck pillow doesn’t count as a personal item if it’s packed inside your carry-on bag or worn around your neck. However, if carried separately, some airlines might consider it an extra item.

Understanding Airline Personal Item Policies

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of neck pillows, let’s talk about what airlines mean by a “personal item.” Most airlines let you bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. But what exactly counts as a personal item?

What Is a Personal Item?

A personal item is usually a smaller bag that fits under the seat in front of you. Think of things like:

• Purses
• Laptop bags
• Small backpacks
• Briefcases

These items should typically be no larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). But remember, each airline has its own rules, so it’s always smart to check before you fly.

Where Do Neck Pillows Fit In?

Now, let’s talk about our star player: the neck pillow. Whether it counts as a personal item often depends on how you carry it and which airline you’re flying with.

Carrying Your Neck Pillow Separately

If you’re carrying your neck pillow in your hand, separate from your other bags, some airlines might count it as an extra personal item. This could potentially cause issues at the gate if you’re already at your limit for carry-on items.

Packing Your Neck Pillow

The safest bet is to pack your neck pillow inside your carry-on bag or personal item. This way, it’s just part of your allowed luggage and won’t raise any eyebrows.

Wearing Your Neck Pillow

Here’s a pro tip: wear your neck pillow around your neck while boarding. This way, it’s considered part of what you’re wearing, just like a scarf or a jacket. Pretty clever, right?

Airline-Specific Policies on Neck Pillows

Different airlines have different rules. Let’s look at a few major ones:

American Airlines

American Airlines allows one carry-on and one personal item. They don’t specifically mention neck pillows, but to be safe, it’s best to pack it in your bag or wear it.

Delta Airlines

Delta is a bit more relaxed. They say you should have only two items in hand when boarding, but they’re usually okay with small extras like neck pillows. Still, it’s better to be safe and pack it away.

Spirit Airlines

Budget airlines like Spirit tend to be stricter. They might charge you for carrying a neck pillow separately if it puts you over your baggage limit. Always pack it in your bag with these airlines.

My Personal Neck Pillow Adventure

Last summer, I learned this lesson the hard way. I was flying to visit my grandma in Florida and decided to bring my favorite memory foam neck pillow. At the gate, the airline staff told me it counted as an extra item! I had to do some quick thinking and ended up wearing it around my neck for the whole flight. It wasn’t ideal, but at least I didn’t have to pay extra or leave it behind.

Smart Packing Tips for Neck Pillow Lovers

If you can’t imagine flying without your trusty neck pillow, here are some tips to make sure it doesn’t cause any trouble:

1. Use Compression Bags

Compression bags can squish your neck pillow down to a smaller size, making it easier to fit in your carry-on.

2. Choose an Inflatable Pillow

Inflatable neck pillows take up less space when deflated. You can easily tuck one into a pocket of your bag.

3. Attach It to Your Bag

Some carry-on bags have straps or hooks on the outside. Use these to secure your neck pillow to your bag, making it part of your carry-on.

4. Pack It Last

If you pack your neck pillow last, it’ll be easy to pull out and use on the plane without messing up the rest of your packing.

The Benefits of Bringing a Neck Pillow

Now that we’ve talked about how to bring your neck pillow, let’s discuss why you might want to in the first place:

Better Sleep on the Plane

A good neck pillow can help you avoid that dreaded neck cramp from sleeping in an awkward position.

Reduced Jet Lag

Getting better rest on the plane can help you adjust to new time zones more easily.

Extra Comfort

Let’s face it, plane seats aren’t known for being comfy. A neck pillow can make a big difference in your overall comfort during the flight.

Alternatives to Traditional Neck Pillows

If you’re worried about space but still want neck support, consider these alternatives:

Travel Scarves with Built-in Support

Some scarves come with hidden neck support. They look like regular scarves but provide the comfort of a neck pillow.

Compact Travel Pillows

There are super compact travel pillows designed to take up minimal space in your bag.

DIY Solutions

In a pinch, a rolled-up sweater or jacket can provide some neck support.

What the Experts Say

I reached out to Sarah Johnson, a frequent flyer and travel blogger, for her take on the neck pillow debate. She said, “I always bring my neck pillow on flights, but I make sure to attach it to my carry-on bag. This way, it’s never been an issue with any airline I’ve flown with. It’s all about how you present it.”

The Bottom Line on Neck Pillows and Personal Items

So, does a neck pillow count as a personal item? The answer is: it depends. To stay on the safe side:

• Pack your neck pillow inside your carry-on or personal item
• Wear it around your neck during boarding
• If you must carry it separately, check with your airline first

Remember, rules can vary between airlines and even individual staff members. When in doubt, it’s always better to pack your neck pillow away or wear it.

Final Thoughts

Traveling comfortably doesn’t have to be a headache. With a little planning, you can bring your favorite neck pillow along without any issues. Just remember to check your airline’s specific rules before you fly, and you’ll be all set for a cozy journey.

Happy and comfortable travels, everyone!

Next Steps

Now that you know how to handle your neck pillow, why not check out our guide on packing light for long trips? It’s full of tips to make your travel even easier!