Does a carry-on backpack count as a personal item?

Does a carry-on backpack count as a personal item? A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

Does a backpack count as a personal item Southwest?

Yes, as a Southwest passenger, you are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item. Per the Southwest.com FAQs, TSA regulations allow a backpack as a personal item when dimensions are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches. You are smart to check because some airlines severely limit carry-ons.

Can I pack everything in a personal item?

You can pack anything that's allowed on the plane in your personal item. Any item that's carry-on-compliant can be packed in either your carry on bag or your personal item bag. There are no requirements around what must be in which bag.

How heavy can your carry-on and personal item be?

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as hand baggage) combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

What happens if my personal item is too big?

Airlines may sometimes ask you to buy a new seat in order to fit your big item. Then, the additional fee will be significant. Even worse, if your personal item is too large or heavy, it is possible that you have to leave it or be denied entry.

What size backpack is a personal item on a plane?

The most common personal item size limit is 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 36 x 20 cm). If your backpacks or handbags don't exceed this number, you're good. Weight limitations for personal belongings are also regulated by several airlines ranging from 10 to 25 pounds (around 4.5 to 11 kg).

Will they measure my personal item?

While these sizes vary by airline, a personal item will typically measure no more than 18 x 14 x 8 inches or 45 x 35 x 29 cm. If your bag does not fit within these dimensions, the airline will likely consider it your 'carry-on' bag and charge you accordingly.

What is the largest carry-on backpack size?

Most airlines allow bags up to 45 linear inches (length + width + depth) or 22? long, 14? wide, and 9? deep. To prevent problems at the airport, your bag should be no larger than these dimensions.

Can you carry-on one bag and a small personal item?

You can, in general, bring one carry on and one personal item with you onto the plane. The exceptions to this rule are the basic economy fares now offered by both major and budget airlines. Basic economy fares are typically cheaper but only include one personal item. You'll have to pay extra for your carry on .

Can I take a backpack as personal item with a carry-on?

A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.

Do airlines actually check carry-on weight?

It is rare for airlines to weigh your carry on or hand luggage. So long as your bag is not clearly overweight, and you're able to carry it with ease – you shouldn't have any issues with a slightly overweight bag.

Can I take a carry-on backpack and handbag?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring on both a carry-on and a personal item like a backpack, laptop bag, purse, briefcase, shopping bag, etc. The general rule of thumb is that your personal item is smaller in dimension than your carry-on bag and it can fit underneath the seat in front of you.

How picky are airlines about carry-on size?

Unless your carry-on is extremely large, the airline employees at the gate most likely won't ask to measure it. If they'd ask each passenger to measure their carry-on, the boarding would take too long. This could cause delayed flights, which airlines don't want.

Can my carry-on be slightly bigger?

Most Airlines Don't Care if Your Carry-On Is 1 Inch Too Big. Carry-ons are measured at the airport before boarding the plane. It's done with metal measuring boxes just in the right size for the allowed carry-on dimensions. If your bag is too large and it isn't flexible, you won't be able to fit it inside.

Can I bring two backpacks as a carry-on and personal item?

Generally, you're allowed one carry on and one personal item, such as a purse, suit bag, briefcase. As long as your backpacks conform to the airline size specifications for hand luggage, it's not a problem that both your carry-ons are backpacks.

Can I bring 2 personal items instead of a carry-on?

In general, travelers are permitted to bring into the plane one personal item and one carry-on bag with them on most flights. The personal item is often a small bag, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that is able to be stowed away beneath the seat that is directly in front of you.

What is not allowed in personal item bag?

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

Is a duffel bag a carry-on?

The answer is yes. You can use a duffel bag as a carry-on item. However, you should ensure that the duffel bag's size and weight meet the airline's specific restrictions on carry-on luggage. You should also consider the bag's shape, as some airlines have limitations that may affect your duffel bag's usability.

What if my carry-on is half an inch too big?

If your carry-on is oversized (and doesn't physically fit inside the overhead compartments) or you encounter a strict airline employee, they will ask you to check it in at the gate.

How strict are airlines about personal item size?

While personal item size restrictions vary across airlines, most airlines consider a small backpack, purse, briefcase, or laptop bag to be a personal item. These must always fit under the seat in front of you. Many airlines restrict passengers to one personal item and one carry on bag.

What if my personal item is 2 inches too big?

If your carry-on is 1-2 inches over the size limit, don't stress about it too much. Most likely, you'll be allowed to pass through without anyone saying anything. But be prepared that if you encounter a strict airline employee, you might have to check it in.

Do airlines check backpack size?

If your backpack doesn't fit, you may be asked to check it at the gate.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

Items subject to the 3-1-1 rule include liquid and aerosol deodorant, cologne, perfume, shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, lotion, sunscreen and toothpaste. Outside of your clear quart-sized bag, you can pack your solid deodorant, toothbrush (manual and electronic), tweezers and mirrors.