Question about "personal item" size on airplane

[KrazeeK120]

I am going to be flying on an airline that charges for carry ons. I'm planning to avoid this by taking a personal item only. It is a fabric bag. It has handles, but they fold down (since they are cloth). Do I need to take the measurement of the handles into account when measuring the bag? It will make a difference as to whether or not it is acceptable as a personal item.

I was under the impression that the size dimensions were such that the item could fit under the seat in front of you. This item can most certainly do that due to the fact that the handles can fold down.

I don't want to get slapped with a fee at the gate, so I wanted to check on this before I go.

 

[Jestocost]

I am going to be flying on an airline that charges for carry ons. I'm planning to avoid this by taking a personal item only. It is a fabric bag. It has handles, but they fold down (since they are cloth). Do I need to take the measurement of the handles into account when measuring the bag? It will make a difference as to whether or not it is acceptable as a personal item.

I was under the impression that the size dimensions were such that the item could fit under the seat in front of you. This item can most certainly do that due to the fact that the handles can fold down.

I don't want to get slapped with a fee at the gate, so I wanted to check on this before I go.

Assuming it's Spirit, they do say it needs to fit under the seat and then give maximum dimensions. Given that they really nail you on fees if your personal item doesn't qualify and you have to pay at the gate, I would be as conservative as possible and include all handles, wheels and random protrusions in your measurements. Read more here:

http://customersupport.spirit.com/entries/21381838-how-much-does-spirit-charge-for-bags

 

[KrazeeK120]

I'm flying on Allegiant.

 

[sam_gordon]

I am going to be flying on an airline that charges for carry ons. I'm planning to avoid this by taking a personal item only. It is a fabric bag. It has handles, but they fold down (since they are cloth). Do I need to take the measurement of the handles into account when measuring the bag? It will make a difference as to whether or not it is acceptable as a personal item.

I was under the impression that the size dimensions were such that the item could fit under the seat in front of you. This item can most certainly do that due to the fact that the handles can fold down.

I don't want to get slapped with a fee at the gate, so I wanted to check on this before I go.

Based on the bolded, I'm fairly confident you'll be fine. If you want, at home, lay the bag on it's side with the handles "folded down". Take your measurements.

 

[sam_gordon]

Assuming it's Spirit, they do say it needs to fit under the seat and then give maximum dimensions. Given that they really nail you on fees if your personal item doesn't qualify and you have to pay at the gate, I would be as conservative as possible and include all handles, wheels and random protrusions in your measurements. Read more here:

http://customersupport.spirit.com/entries/21381838-how-much-does-spirit-charge-for-bags

This is no different than a roll-on carryon luggage. You don't measure it with the handle extended, but with it retracted (the way it would be in the bin).