Whether the airport weighs your "personal item" (like a backpack or purse) depends heavily on the airline you are flying rather than the airport itself. Major US carriers like Delta, United, and American rarely weigh personal items as long as they appear to fit under the seat. However, budget airlines (such as Spirit, Frontier, or European carriers like Ryanair) have become much stricter in 2026. They are more likely to use "automated sizers" at the gate that check both the dimensions and, occasionally, the weight of your bag. If your personal item looks overstuffed or "bulky," agents may ask you to place it in a sizer or on a scale. International carriers in Asia and Oceania are notoriously strict, often enforcing a combined weight limit for both your carry-on and personal item (typically 7kg to 10kg). For the best experience, always check your specific carrier's weight limits, as a surprise "gate-check" fee can cost up to $100.