Just how strict are Sun Country with carry-on and personal item size?
Sun Country are somewhat strict, especially if you’re trying to travel light, they allow one personal item for free, but it must be placed under the seat in front of you. If it doesn’t, you will be asked to pay the carry-on fee and they are not shy about enforcing it.
So, if you want to avoid hefty extra fees or simply make sure you’re on the right side of the rules, here’s everything you need to know.
Let’s dive right in.
How Strict Is Sun Country With Carry-on?
If you’d like to take a carry-on bag (in addition to your free personal item), you will need to pay for it either during booking or afterward.
Remember that carry-on is always cheaper if you pay it online than pay at the airport, so plan ahead where possible.
un country stated that carry-on bags must meet the following:
- Dimensions: 24 x 16 x 11 inches (including wheels and handles)
- Weight limit: 35 pounds
- Must fit in the overhead compartment and into the sizer at the gate
Carry-on fees:
- From $30 at booking
- $38 after booking or at check-in
- $45 at the airport
Traveling With Infants
Infants don’t get their own baggage allowance any infant gear must be packed within the adult’s personal item or carry-on bag.
However, you can check a stroller or car seat for free, either at the check-in counter or at the gate.
Liquids in carry-on Baggage
Sun Country follow TSA guidelines, which means:
- Liquids must be 100ml (3.4 oz) or less per container
- All containers must fit in a quart-sized bag.
How Strict Is Sun Country With Personal Item?
Sun Country allow one free under seat item per passenger, like a small backpack, laptop bag, or purse.
Personal item dimensions:
- Max size: 17 x 13 x 9 inches
- No weight limit, but it must be light enough to carry and fit comfortably under the seat
That said, don’t stress if your personal item is slightly bigger.
As long as it’s soft sided and doesn’t consume too much room, you’re unlikely to run into issues especially if you’re not also bringing a carry-on.
How Strict Are They With Weight?
While most sun country do not stress a personal item weight, a carry-on bag must weigh no more than 35 pounds.
In my experience, it’s rare for Sun Country to weigh your carry-on but that doesn’t mean it never happens.
So, it is always wise to stay within the limit if you can, but don’t worry if you’re slightly over.
The worst scenario, you might have to shuffle a few items around or pop on a bulky hoodie to lighten the load.
My Bag Is Slightly Oversized, What Will Happen?
Sun Country gate agents are known to inspect bags especially personal items that seem a bit too bulky.
If your bag doesn’t fit under the seat, it’ll be considered as a carry-on and you will have to pay for it.
If you’re using a soft backpack, you might get away with it, in some situations.
But if it’s a hard sided suitcase, you’re just relying on luck.
My Bag Is Slightly Overweight, Do I Have To Pay For It?
Don’t worry about it.
It’s rare for hand luggage to be weighed at the gate, especially if you’re already checked in online and just heading through security.
So if you’re a pound or two over the 35-pound limit, you are all good.
Still, no guarantees so prepare to wear some of your heaviest layers if you’re worried.
You might also like:
- How strict is Sunwing with carry-on size?
- Does IndiGo weigh cabin baggage?
- Strict is Level Airline with baggage?
What If I Get Caught Out?
If your bag is too big or too heavy, Sun Country will check it into the hold and charge you a fee, usually $45 or more depending on when and where you pay.
That’s why I always recommend investing in a compliant bag. It’ll save you the stress, and in some cases, it costs less than the penalty.
Final Thoughts
The truth is, you just never know what will happen in the airport until the day but with Sun Country Airlines, it pays to be cautious.
They’re more likely to measure or challenge your personal item than some other airlines, especially if you haven’t paid for a carry-on (they make a profit on charging for carry-on bags).
If you’re planning to go over the size or weight limits, your best bet is a soft-sided personal item and checking in online to speed things along.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
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