I Asked 13 Airlines How to Travel with a Yoga Mat

Traveling with a yoga mat can be tricky. Whether you’re heading to a retreat or want to maintain your practice while exploring new destinations, figuring out how to pack and carry your mat can raise questions about airline policies. To make your life easier, I reached out to 13 major airlines to ask how you can travel with a yoga mat.

Here’s a breakdown of the rules, tips, and advice I gathered for hassle-free travel with your favorite yoga companion.

Key Questions Asked

1. Can a yoga mat be carried on as part of your carry-on allowance?

2. Does a yoga mat count as a personal item or a carry-on bag?

3. What are the size restrictions for carry-ons and personal items?

4. Can a yoga mat be checked in, and are there extra charges for doing so?

5. What tips do airlines recommend for traveling with a yoga mat?

Airline Policies on Traveling with a Yoga Mat

Here’s what each airline had to say about traveling with yoga mats:

1. American Airlines

• Policy: A yoga mat can be carried on if it fits within the carry-on size limits (22 x 14 x 9 inches).

• Tips: Roll your yoga mat tightly to fit it in a carry-on or personal bag.

2. Delta Air Lines

• Policy: A yoga mat is considered part of your carry-on allowance, provided it meets size restrictions.

• Tips: Use a yoga mat bag with a strap to make it easier to carry and stow.

3. United Airlines

• Policy: Yoga mats are allowed as carry-on items, but larger mats may need to be checked.

• Tips: Consider folding thinner mats to fit inside a suitcase.

4. Southwest Airlines

• Policy: Yoga mats are considered personal items if small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

• Tips: Opt for travel-friendly mats that are compact and lightweight.

5. JetBlue Airways

• Policy: Yoga mats can be carried on as part of your carry-on or personal item, subject to size restrictions.

• Tips: Use a travel bag that combines your yoga mat and personal belongings to save space.

6. Alaska Airlines

• Policy: Mats can be carried on, but larger mats that don’t fit the overhead bin may need to be checked.

• Tips: Check with gate agents if you’re unsure about fitting it in the overhead compartment.

7. Air Canada

• Policy: Yoga mats count as part of your carry-on or checked baggage allowance.

• Tips: Ensure your mat is securely rolled and protected to avoid damage during travel.

8. British Airways

• Policy: Small yoga mats can be included as a personal item. Larger mats must fit within carry-on size limits or be checked.

• Tips: Choose a thinner mat to reduce bulk and weight.

9. Lufthansa

• Policy: Yoga mats can be carried on as long as they meet size restrictions for carry-on luggage.

• Tips: Fold or roll your mat compactly to avoid it being classified as oversized.

10. Emirates

• Policy: Mats are allowed as carry-on items but must fit within standard carry-on dimensions.

• Tips: Use a mat strap for easy carrying through the airport.

11. Qantas Airways

• Policy: Yoga mats can be carried on, but oversized mats may need to be checked.

• Tips: Use a lightweight travel mat to stay within size and weight restrictions.

12. Singapore Airlines

• Policy: Mats must fit within carry-on size and weight limits or be checked.

• Tips: Keep your mat in a bag to protect it from damage.

13. Ryanair

• Policy: Yoga mats are allowed as carry-on items but must fit within their strict personal item dimensions (40 x 20 x 25 cm).

• Tips: Fold travel mats to fit into a personal bag or suitcase.

General Tips for Traveling with a Yoga Mat

1. Opt for Travel-Friendly Mats

   • Lightweight and foldable travel mats are easier to pack and carry.

   • Brands like Manduka, Liforme, and Alo offer thin travel mats perfect for flying.

2. Use a Carry-On-Friendly Bag

   • Look for yoga mat bags with storage for accessories or combine your mat with a larger carry-on.

3. Check Size and Weight Restrictions

   • Review your airline’s carry-on and checked baggage policies before traveling.

4. Protect Your Mat

   • Use a mat bag or wrap your mat in a towel to prevent scuffs and damage.

5. Be Prepared to Check Larger Mats

   • If your mat doesn’t fit carry-on dimensions, ensure it’s packed securely to avoid damage in checked luggage.

Which Airlines Are the Most Yoga Mat-Friendly?

From the responses, Delta, American Airlines, and JetBlue stand out as the most yoga mat-friendly airlines, allowing mats as part of carry-on baggage with minimal hassle. On the other hand, Ryanair has stricter size limits, making it less convenient for carrying a standard yoga mat.

Conclusion

Traveling with a yoga mat is easier than you might think, especially if you plan ahead and choose a travel-friendly mat. Most airlines allow mats as carry-on items, provided they meet size restrictions. By using the tips and insights shared above, you can stay grounded in your yoga practice no matter where your journey takes you.