When planning a trip with JetBlue, one of the essential factors to consider is the airline’s carry-on policy.
JetBlue allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, at no charge. The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, and the carry-on bag must be stowed in the overhead bin.
By following these guidelines, you can avoid additional fees, gate-checking your carry-on, and the stress of repacking at the airport.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of JetBlue’s carry-on policy, size, and weight limits, as well as tips for packing and selecting the right luggage for your journey.
JetBlue Carry-On Size
JetBlue is known for its generous carry-on size allowance, which allows passengers to bring a bag measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) on board. To ensure your carry-on meets these requirements, it’s essential to measure it accurately, including wheels, handles, and any external compartments. If your bag is irregularly shaped, consider the space it would occupy in an overhead bin to determine whether it complies with JetBlue’s guidelines.
Be aware: Blue Basic fares do not allow a carry-on bag. Any carry-on bag brought to the gate (aside from a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you) will incur a fee and need to be checked. The fee is $65 (if it would be your 1st or 2nd checked bag) or $180 (if it’s your 3rd).
JetBlue Personal Item Size
In addition to a carry-on bag, JetBlue allows passengers to bring one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag, on board. The maximum size for a personal item is 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm). Make sure your personal item can comfortably fit under the seat in front of you to comply with JetBlue’s guidelines.
JetBlue Carry-On Policy for Small Regional Jets
When flying on smaller regional jets, JetBlue may impose stricter carry-on size and weight limits due to no or limited overhead bin space. Be prepared to check your carry-on bag at the gate if it does not fit in the overhead bins or under the seat on these smaller aircraft. To avoid any surprises, check JetBlue’s website for specific carry-on restrictions for your flight.
JetBlue Carry-on Liquids Policy
JetBlue adheres to the TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids, which requires all liquids, gels, and aerosols to be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. These containers must be placed in a single, quart-sized, clear plastic zip-top bag. Each passenger is allowed one such bag, which must be removed from the carry-on luggage and placed in a separate bin for screening at the security checkpoint.
JetBlue Carry-on Food Policy
JetBlue permits passengers to bring food on board, provided it meets TSA guidelines. Solid foods, such as sandwiches and fruits, are generally allowed, but be aware that any liquids, gels, or creams in your food must adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 rule. To make your journey more enjoyable, pack your in-flight snacks in a separate, easy-to-access bag, and keep in mind that strong-smelling foods might be bothersome to fellow passengers.
JetBlue Carry-On Pet Policy
JetBlue allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as a carry-on, provided they are in an approved pet carrier that meets JetBlue’s size and weight requirements. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg), and the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
JetBlue Carry-On Pet Fees
JetBlue charges a fee of $125 each way for pets traveling in the cabin.
TSA Approved Pet Carrier for JetBlue
When traveling with a pet on JetBlue, it’s essential to use a TSA-approved pet carrier that provides adequate ventilation, security, and comfort for your pet. The carrier must be leak-proof, have a solid bottom, and allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. JetBlue recommends soft-sided carriers, as they can conform to the available space under the seat more easily than hard-sided carriers.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
There are certain items that aren’t allowed on flights for any airline.
Prohibited Items
JetBlue, like all airlines, adheres to the TSA guidelines for prohibited items on board flights. These include:
- Sharp objects such as knives, box cutters, and scissors with blades longer than 4 inches
- Firearms and ammunition
- Flammable items, such as lighter fluid, gasoline, and aerosol paint
- Explosives, including fireworks and dynamite
- Self-defense items, such as pepper spray, mace, and stun guns
Always check the TSA’s list of prohibited items before packing your carry-on luggage to avoid any delays or issues during the security screening process.
Restricted Items
Some items are allowed on board but may be subject to restrictions or special handling procedures. These include:
- Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are allowed in carry-on luggage but must be removed from devices for security screening.
- E-cigarettes and vaping devices: These are permitted in carry-on luggage but are not allowed in checked bags. They must be turned off and not used during the flight.
- Medical devices: Passengers with medical devices, such as insulin pumps or portable oxygen concentrators, should contact JetBlue in advance to ensure proper accommodations are made.
Always consult JetBlue’s website for specific information on restricted items and any additional regulations that may apply.
JetBlue Carry-On Fees
JetBlue does not charge fees for carry-on luggage that meets size and weight requirements. However, if your carry-on exceeds these limits, you may be required to check it at the gate and pay any applicable checked baggage fees. To avoid these additional costs, measure and weigh your carry-on luggage before arriving at the airport.
Blue Basic fares do not allow a carry-on bag. Any carry-on bag brought to the gate (aside from a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you) will incur a fee and need to be checked. The fee is $65 (if it would be your 1st or 2nd checked bag) or $180 (if it’s your 3rd).
JetBlue Carry-On Bag Guarantee
JetBlue’s Carry-On Bag Guarantee ensures that if your carry-on luggage is lost or damaged while in JetBlue’s care, the airline will issue you a $25 JetBlue travel credit for any reasonable expenses related to the loss or damage.
Recommended Carry-On Bag When Flying JetBlue
When choosing a carry-on bag for your JetBlue flight, look for luggage that meets the airline’s size and weight requirements, is durable, and offers practical features such as multiple compartments, sturdy zippers, and spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. Some top luggage brands to consider include Travelpro, Samsonite, and Away.
FAQs
How strict is JetBlue with carry-on?
JetBlue is generally known for being reasonably strict with its carry-on policy. However, enforcement can vary depending on the airport and the staff on duty. It’s always best to adhere to the size and weight limits for carry-on luggage to avoid any potential issues at the gate. The maximum size for a carry-on bag on JetBlue is 22″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H, and for a personal item, it’s 17″ L x 13″ W x 8″ H.
Can I bring a musical instrument as my carry-on item on JetBlue?
Yes, you can bring a musical instrument as your carry-on item on JetBlue flights, provided it meets the size and weight requirements for carry-on luggage. If your instrument fits within the allowable dimensions, you can store it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If your instrument is too large or fragile, you may need to purchase an additional seat to accommodate it or check it as baggage, depending on its size and the availability of space on the flight.
How can I avoid additional fees or gate-checking my carry-on luggage on JetBlue flights?
To avoid additional fees or having to gate-check your carry-on luggage on JetBlue flights, make sure your carry-on and personal items meet the airline’s size requirements. Double-check the dimensions of your bags, including handles and wheels, and ensure they can fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Additionally, avoid overpacking your bags, and be prepared to lift and stow them independently. By adhering to JetBlue’s carry-on policy, you can minimize the risk of incurring extra costs or delays at the gate.
Can I bring a stroller or car seat as a carry-on item for my child on JetBlue flights?
JetBlue allows passengers traveling with infants or children to bring a stroller and a car seat without additional charges. However, these items do not count as carry-on items and need to be checked at the gate. You can use a stroller or car seat up until boarding, and JetBlue will return them to you at the aircraft door upon arrival at your destination. Ensure that your stroller or car seat is collapsible and appropriately labeled with your contact information.
Bottom Line
In summary, JetBlue’s carry-on policy allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. The carry-on bag must not exceed 22″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H, including handles and wheels, and should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Personal items must not be larger than 17″ L x 13″ W x 8″ H and should fit under the seat. While there is no specific weight limit for carry-on luggage, it’s essential to ensure you can lift and stow your bag independently.
By planning and packing your carry-on luggage according to JetBlue’s carry-on policy, you can ensure a seamless journey and focus on enjoying your trip.
