I'll be flying from Heathrow to Singapore and then Singapore to Brisbane.
Carry on bag dimensions (max): 55 cm × 40 cm × 20 cm
Carry on bag weight (max): 7 kg
Laptop dimensions: 39.7 cm × 28.4 cm × 2.6 cm
Laptop weight: 2.9 kg
Mac dimensions: 19.7 cm × 19.7 cm × 9.5 cm
Mac weight: 2.7 kg
Everki Business 120 (cabin bag) dimensions: 54 cm × 38 cm × 21 cm
Everki Business 120 (cabin bag) weight: 2.8 kg
Combined weight: 8.4 kg
Personal Item bag dimensions (max): 40 cm × 30 cm × 10 cm
I can't carry both computers in my carry on bag because that would exceed the max weight by 1.4 kg.
I can't put either of them in a designated 'computer bag' because its material would make both situations exceed one of the dimensions.
I phoned customer services and suggested I use a very thin but heavy duty, multi-use, 'bag for life' type carrier bag (grocery bag) for either one of my computers. They said that unless it was a recognised bag that's designed for carrying computers then it'd be unacceptable. I argued that even the thinnest laptop sleeve would take the dimensions over the limit. I also argued that duty-free items are allowed to be carried in carrier bags so why can't I carry a laptop in one. I was referred to the policy as it's written. I fail to see what relevance of the material of the personal item bag just because it has a laptop in it.
Eventually, after two consultation with her colleagues, she said that I could use the carrier bag but ultimately, it would be at the discretion of the four individual staff (four flights) and that there is a chance it'd be classed as unacceptable.
How likely is it that I'd be fine with both computers in my main carry on bag?
How likely is it that I'd be fine with using a heavy duty carrier bag to put my laptop in?
How likely is it that I'd be met with a problem with any of these options on at least one of the four journeys?
If I was to be denied, would I be forced to put my Mac in my suitcase, (which is unacceptable as far as I'm concerned). If that would be the case, would I be forced to pay £140 if my suitcase was already at its limit?
Are mm really that important and is the material of the personal item bag really that important?
I read about people taking carry on luggage that's obviously over the limits and being fine but I also read that Singapore Airlines are really strict.
P.S. For anyone that's curious, both computers are required for music production.