Last Updated: September 13, 2023
Can You Bring a Blanket on a Plane? Know the Rules
Flights can get chilly, but can you bring a blanket on a plane? Yes, but with some restrictions. Read on for detailed answers to that question.
This article lists reasons to bring your blanket, factors to consider when choosing your blanket, how airlines categorize blankets, as well as how to pack your blanket.
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Can You Bring Your Own Blanket on a Plane?
According to the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers are allowed to carry blankets at checkpoints.
However, every airline has its own restrictions concerning the size and number of carry-on items. Thus, you should check with the airline whether you can bring your blanket.
Does a Blanket Count as a Personal Item or a Carry-on?
Generally speaking, airlines allow every passenger a carry-on case and a personal item. Carry-on cases are those small bags you can store in the overhead compartment. On the other hand, the personal item can be a laptop case, a purse, a camera case, etc.
Interestingly, some airlines will allow you an additional wearable item, such as a jacket. The question now is whether your blanket counts as a carry-on or a personal item.
The answer here varies according to the airline. Most airlines consider blankets as personal items. However, some airlines may treat your blanket as a wearable item or ask you to put it inside your carry-on.
In some cases, airlines may even charge you some extra fees for a blanket, as they consider it an additional item on the plane.
For instance, the following major airlines consider blankets personal items:
- Delta Airlines
- American Airlines
- British Airlines
- Ryanair
Why Should You Bring Your Own Blanket on a Plane?
So, why take your blanket if the airline would provide one? Here are several reasons why:
Traveling With a Child
If you’re traveling with a baby or a toddler, you should expect plenty of surprises during the trip. Therefore, it serves you well to stay on the safe side and keep a blanket handy.
The plane’s usually chilly for adults, especially during long flights. Imagine how cold it can be for kids. Having a familiar blanket is a great idea to calm them down and make them feel a little cozier.
Traveling in Winter
Picture how chilly the plane and the airport can get during the cold months of winter. Especially with international flights, you may be moving to a colder zone. So, be prepared.
Having a blanket with you while traveling in winter can come in handy if your flight gets delayed. That can be quite common during storms and blizzards too.
No Blankets on Some Airlines
Some airlines offer highly discounted tickets. That still comes at a cost, including providing blankets and other amenities at an extra charge.
If you buy one of those cheap tickets, make sure to take your blanket along as renting a blanket on a plane ranges between $8 and $25, depending on the airline and ticket type.
Guaranteed Quality
When you take your blanket, you can choose its material, warmth, and size. That way, you guarantee that your blanket is large enough to cover you from head to toe and actually keep you warm.
You can also avoid synthetic materials that may cause you allergies or pose other health problems.
Safe Hygiene
Can you be certain that the airline blanket was washed after the previous trip? Most probably, the cabin crew won’t get the time to send the blankets to dry cleaning between their journeys.
Even if they’re washed, you won’t know which chemicals were used in the process. Some fabric softeners or detergents may cause allergies.
Avoiding Environmental Issues
Washing blankets after every use consumes water and energy. Your blanket won’t be washed after every use since you know you’re the only one using it.
Therefore, relying on your blanket is better for the planet. It reduces the amount of energy and water used.
Best Blankets for Air Travel
Backable travel blankets are the best for air travel. They’re made of lightweight, comfortable, and warm material.
What To Consider When Choosing Your Travel Blanket?
- Size: Your blanket should be large enough to accommodate your travel companion with you.
- Comfort: Choose a soft, warm, and comfortable blanket that enables you to sleep during long flights.
- Weight: Lightweight blankets are the best since they don’t add to the hassle of the journey. You can even put your lightweight blanket inside your carry-on if you have to.
- Material: Avoid synthetic fibers and choose natural fabrics, such as cotton. That can help you avoid health risks.
- Ease of Transportation: Some travel blankets come with a small pouch or bag for transportation. That makes traveling with such blankets much easier.
- Design: Pick a distinct design that won’t get confused with the airline blankets. You also want a vivid color that you’ll notice if left behind.
Can You Bring A Weighted Blanket on a Plane?
There are no restrictions against bringing a weighted blanket on a plane. However, it may be a little risky.
For starters, it can be a lot to handle if you choose to carry it separately. If you put it in your carry-on, it adds between 10 and 25 pounds. It can also be hard to handle and wash once you reach your destination.
In addition, a weighted blanket can pose a security risk at times. Security officers may suspect that it’s stuffed with certain prohibited material.
Can You Bring A Heated Blanket on a Plane?
Passengers can bring a heated blanket or electric blanket on a plane. However, some airlines, such as American Airlines, prohibit you from plugging it in during the trip.
So, you should first check with your airline. In most cases, you can bring your heated blanket, but plugging it in can be a fire hazard.
How to Pack Your Blanket for Travel
You can safely pack your blanket for travel in several ways.
For instance, you may put it in a compact bag to keep it clean. You may also put it into an airtight bag that doesn’t take up much space in your luggage.
However, the most basic way remains safe enough. Simply, fold the blanket and lay it flat on an even surface.
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About the Author Anna Timbrook
Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.
