Is a bed pillow considered a carry-on?

Pillow Talk: Can You Bring Your Favorite Headrest on the Plane?

Traveling can be tough on the neck. That’s why many of us rely on our trusty pillows for comfort, whether it’s a fluffy down number or a supportive memory foam friend. But the question remains: can you bring your pillow on the plane as a carry-on?

The short answer is a qualified yes. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits pillows in both carry-on and checked baggage. This means you can generally waltz through airport security without fear of your pillow being confiscated. Your fluffy travel companion is unlikely to trigger any alarms.

However, the TSA’s leniency doesn’t tell the whole story. While the security checkpoint won’t object to your pillow, the airline itself holds the final authority. This is where things get a little trickier. The issue hinges on airline carry-on size and personal item allowances.

Your oversized, king-sized memory foam pillow, while perfectly acceptable to the TSA, might be a problem for the airline. Airlines often have strict limitations on the size and number of carry-on bags and personal items allowed per passenger. Depending on the airline’s policy and the pillow’s dimensions, your beloved pillow might consume your personal item allowance, leaving you without space for your purse, laptop bag, or that essential book. A smaller, travel-sized pillow is far less likely to cause this issue.

So, before you pack that enormous goose-down pillow, check your airline’s specific carry-on policy. Their website will detail the allowed dimensions for both carry-on luggage and personal items. Measuring your pillow beforehand will save you potential headaches (and potential baggage fees) at the gate.

In short: The TSA allows pillows, but the airline dictates whether it counts towards your carry-on allowance. Planning ahead and understanding your airline’s rules ensures a smooth and comfortable journey, from security to your seat. Remember, a smaller, more travel-friendly pillow is your best bet for avoiding any unexpected carry-on complications.