Travel Hangup Bags: Airplane Carry-On Convenience?

Many people travel with hang-up bags, especially when they need to transport suits or other formalwear. While some airlines allow passengers to bring hang-up bags as carry-on luggage, others require them to be checked. It's important to check with the specific airline before travelling. Additionally, some airlines provide closets or hanging space for hang-up bags during the flight, while others do not. When packing, it's recommended to use plastic hangers instead of metal ones to avoid potential issues with airport security.

Garment bags are considered carry-on luggage by most airlines

Garment bags are usually considered carry-on luggage by most airlines. However, this may depend on the size of the bag and the specific airline's policies. Some airlines allow garment bags as carry-on luggage, while others may require them to be checked in. It's important to check with the specific airline before travelling to ensure you comply with their policies.

In the United States, for example, most airlines count a garment bag as a carry-on item, regardless of its size. This includes major carriers like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines. However, there may be exceptions for basic economy fares. On the other hand, Australian airlines are generally more accommodating, allowing a garment bag in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item. Similar to the US, airlines in the United Kingdom consider traditional suit bags as part of your regular carry-on allowance.

When travelling with a garment bag, it's important to be mindful of the weight and dimensions specified by the airline. For instance, American Airlines allows soft-sided garment bags up to 51 inches (130 cm) as carry-on items. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines has a carry-on dimension limit of 10 x 16 x 24 inches, and their planes do not have closets or designated spaces to hang garment bags. Therefore, it is crucial to check these details before your flight to avoid any issues or additional costs.

Additionally, consider alternative ways to transport your suit or garments. Some travellers suggest folding the suit and placing it in a carry-on suitcase to reduce wrinkling. Others recommend wearing the suit while travelling, as natural creases from wearing it may be easier to manage than unnatural folds from packing it. If you do choose to bring a garment bag, investigate the facilities at your destination, as access to an iron or steaming service may alleviate any concerns about creases.

Some airlines offer closets to hang your suit during the flight

While most airlines do not offer closets to hang your suit during the flight, some airlines do provide this service for first-class passengers. For example, one source mentions that Delta and American Airlines have closets in their planes. However, it is important to note that these closets are typically reserved for first-class passengers, and economy passengers may not be allowed to use them. Another source mentions that Emirates offers a garment bag for passengers flying first class, in addition to their carry-on bag.

If you are flying in economy, you may have to resort to other methods to transport your suit. Some suggestions include wearing your suit during the flight, folding it and placing it in your carry-on luggage, or hanging it in the bathroom upon arrival. Additionally, some airlines may allow you to hang your suit in the closet if you ask the flight attendants politely and explain your situation. However, this is not guaranteed, as it depends on the availability of space in the closet and the policies of the airline.

You can avoid the hassle of a garment bag by investing in wrinkle-resistant suits

Yes, you can take a suit with you on a flight, but it's important to adhere to the airline's baggage policies. Most airlines allow you to carry a suit onto the plane in a garment bag, provided it fits within the carry-on baggage dimensions. However, some airlines consider garment bags as hand luggage rather than a personal item, so it's important to check the specific policies of the airline you're flying with.

Now, if you want to avoid the hassle of carrying a garment bag altogether, you can invest in a wrinkle-resistant suit. With technical advancements, several companies now offer lightweight, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant suits that are ideal for travel. These suits are designed to be packed easily into your regular luggage without requiring special care. For example, the Gramercy Suit by Bluffworks is a machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, and breathable suit that looks like wool. It's made from soft and stretchy fabric, combining classic looks with technical performance. Similarly, the Presidio Suit by Bluffworks is a lightweight, fully lined, and machine-washable suit that drapes like tropical wool. It is highly breathable and wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect for hot climates.

Another option is the xSuit, which offers maximum comfort and freedom of movement. It is designed with classic fashion principles that will never go out of style. The xSuit is easy to maintain, hard to mess up, and simple to wash. With a 45-day risk-free trial, you can test out the suit before committing to it.

By investing in a wrinkle-resistant suit, you can save yourself the trouble of carrying a separate garment bag and worrying about wrinkles during your travels.

If you want to hang your suit up during the flight, check if there's space in the closet

If you want to hang your suit up during the flight, you should check with the airline to see if there's space in the closet. Some airlines provide hanging space for garments, but not all. For example, Southwest Airlines, WestJet, and JetBlue Airways do not provide hanging space for garments. In these cases, you will need to place your suit in the overhead locker.

If you are travelling with a suit, it's best to check with the airline to see if they offer hanging space. You can also ask about carry-on luggage restrictions, as you may be able to bring a garment bag on board. However, this will depend on the airline's specific policies and the size of the bag. Some airlines, like American Airlines, allow passengers to take a soft-sided garment bag measuring up to 51 inches (130 cm) as their carry-on item. Others, like Southwest Airlines, will allow garment bags as a personal carry-on item, as long as they fit within specified dimensions.

It's important to note that even if your airline provides hanging space, there may be limited room in the closet. In this case, you may need to be strategic about when you board the plane to ensure you have access to the hanging space. Additionally, consider using a premium garment bag designed to protect your suit, prevent wrinkles, and make transportation easy.

Coat hangers are allowed in hand luggage, but heavy-duty ones may be confiscated

Coat hangers are generally allowed in hand luggage, but it is worth noting that some travellers have reported having metal coat hangers confiscated. The final decision on whether an item is permitted rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.

Some travellers have reported that they regularly take coat hangers in their hand luggage, particularly if they are travelling with a suit or other items that require hanging. However, others have suggested that coat hangers are unnecessary, as most hotels provide them, and they can add unnecessary weight to your luggage. There is also a risk that they could get caught or snagged on clothing in your bag, potentially damaging your clothes.

If you do choose to pack coat hangers in your hand luggage, it is recommended to opt for plastic hangers with a metal hook, as these are less likely to be considered a sharp object or potential weapon. Some travellers also recommend inflatable hangers, which can be useful for steaming or drying clothes in the hotel room.

It is worth noting that there have been instances where travellers have had seemingly harmless items confiscated by security, so it may be wise to check with the airport or airline beforehand if you are concerned about a specific type of coat hanger. Ultimately, the decision rests with the TSA officer, so it is always a risk to pack items that could be considered sharp or unusual.

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