In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you. For example, if you use a backpack as a personal item and put it under the seat in front of you, you can then use a duffel as a carry-on bag as long as it's under the airline's size requirements.
Can a backpack be a personal object flying?
Domestic carry-on policies. 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.
What size backpack will fit under airplane seat?
It is stated that one carry-on bag and one personal item are allowed per passenger. The dimensions of the under-seat compartment are 18 x 14 x 8 inches, which applies to all cabin and flight configuration.
How strict are airlines about personal item size?
Re: Personal item strictnessAs you are aware, personal items need to fit under the seat in front of you, with the set dimensions of 16.25" x 13.5" x 8". You will not be allowed to simply hold in your lap, as all items of this size must be stowed/secured for take-off and landing.
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.
What does a personal item bag look like?
A personal item is any bag that fits under the airplane seat in front of you, though the precise dimensions of these bags vary by carrier. You can use pretty much any bag ranging from duffels and weekenders to backpacks and sling bags, but for the most part, they should be under 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
What is the maximum size for a personal item backpack?
Carry-on bags shouldn't be larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high including handles and wheels. Dimensions of personal items should not exceed 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high.
What happens if your personal item is too big?
If your personal item does not fit this box, it is bad news. In that case, it will turn into checked luggage, meaning additional fees will be required. That's why airlines have size restrictions in the first place, though.
How do I know if my backpack will fit under my plane seat?
Here's a breakdown of a few popular airlines' guidelines for personal item size restrictions:
- American Airlines advises customers to travel with personal items that are no larger than 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches.
- If you are flying on Delta, be sure your personal item is 17 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches or smaller.
Is a backpack a personal item on a flight?
What happens if my personal item is too big?
If your personal item does not fit this box, it is bad news. In that case, it will turn into checked luggage, meaning additional fees will be required. That's why airlines have size restrictions in the first place, though.
Will they measure my personal item?
Do Airlines Always Check the Size and Weight of Personal Items? Generally, if your personal item is small and compact, the check-in agent (or gate agent) will not ask to weigh it, but if it looks similar in size to your carry-on, you could find yourself in trouble.
Can you bring a purse and a backpack on a plane?
Technically, any piece of luggage that you “carry on” to an airplane is a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage or “hand baggage” that can fit in the overhead bin, plus a “personal item” (a smaller purse, computer bag, diaper bag, small backpack, etc.
Can you bring deodorant in personal bag?
Stick deodorant is fine in any size. Well, almost any size… Powders and crystals are good to go as well. Spray, Gel, Liquid, Cream, Pastes, and Roll-On deodorants need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and placed in a clear quart-sized baggie.
Can I bring a purse and a backpack on a plane?
Technically, any piece of luggage that you “carry on” to an airplane is a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage or “hand baggage” that can fit in the overhead bin, plus a “personal item” (a smaller purse, computer bag, diaper bag, small backpack, etc.
What items don’t count as personal item?
There are some notable exceptions to the personal item rule as well. Most major US carriers don't count kid-specific items such as diaper bags, strollers, and car seats (the latter to be used onboard) as a personal item.
Can I have a backpack and a carry-on?
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.
What if my personal item is slightly too big?
If your personal item does not fit this box, it is bad news. In that case, it will turn into checked luggage, meaning additional fees will be required. That's why airlines have size restrictions in the first place, though.
What not to bring in a personal bag?
THINGS YOU SHOULD ABSOLUTELY LEAVE HOME INCLUDE:
- Sharp objects (scissors (except for nail scissors), knives, straight razors, and safety razor blades, etc.)
- Sporting equipment.
- Self-defense items like pepper spray or brass knuckles.
- Tools of any kind.
- Flammable and explosive items.
Can I put clothes in my personal bag?
Certainly, you can pack clothes in your personal items or carry-on bag. But for a better experience, we recommend packing most of your clothes in your carry on and leaving extra space in your personal items.