Yes, most airlines allow you to bring one carry on and backpack as your two permitted items. This usually consists of one standard overhead bin bag and one smaller personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.
Can you bring a backpack and carry on
Most major carriers follow a standard two-item policy, but your specific ticket class often dictates whether both are free or if the overhead bag requires an extra fee. Always check your booking confirmation before heading to the airport.
| Airline Situation | Items Allowed | Fee Status |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Economy | Carry-on and backpack | Usually included |
| Basic Economy | Backpack only | Carry-on costs extra |
| International Long-haul | Carry-on and backpack | Included in price |
| Regional Jets | Backpack only | Overhead space limited |
| First/Business Class | Carry-on and backpack | Always included |
Factors determining your baggage allowance
The primary factor deciding if you can bring both items is the specific fare class you purchased. While the Transportation Security Administration manages safety screening, individual airlines set their own size and weight limits for bags. A personal item like a backpack must fit completely under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on must fit inside the overhead compartment.
If your bag is too large for the bin, the airline may force you to check it at the gate for a fee. If you’re flying on a small regional aircraft, the overhead bins are often too small for full-sized carry-ons, meaning you’ll have to check your larger bag regardless of your ticket type. If you have a budget ticket, expect to pay for the overhead bag; if you have a premium ticket, both are generally covered.
How to pack your two bags
If you’re bringing both items, follow these steps to ensure you meet all requirements:
- Measure your backpack to ensure it’s roughly 18 x 14 x 8 inches, which is the standard size for items that must fit under a seat.
- Pack your valuables like laptops, chargers, and medication in the backpack so they stay with you if the overhead bag needs to be gate-checked.
- Verify the carry-on weight against your airline’s specific limit, which is typically 22 to 35 pounds depending on the carrier’s policy.
- Place the heavier items in the carry-on bag to make the backpack easier to carry through the terminal.
- Check the gate requirements on your mobile boarding pass to see if your specific flight has size restrictions for the overhead bin.
The common mistake with baggage
The most common mistake is assuming that “carry-on” and “personal item” are the same size. People often try to bring two large bags, which leads to gate agents forcing them to check the larger bag at the last minute. This usually results in a significant fee that’s much higher than paying for a checked bag online in advance. You can avoid this by using a soft-sided backpack that can be squished into tight spaces under a seat, and a structured carry-on that clearly fits the airline’s published bin dimensions.
When to seek help at the airport
If you reach the boarding gate and your bags are clearly oversized, you must stop and speak with the gate agent immediately. Attempting to force a bag into a small bin can damage the aircraft interior or delay boarding for everyone. If you have medical equipment or mobility aids, these are typically allowed in addition to your two bags, but you should notify the airline 48 hours before your flight to ensure they’re prepared to accommodate your specific needs.
Frequently asked questions
Can i bring one carry on and backpack on budget airlines?
Yes, you can usually bring both, but budget airlines often charge a fee for the overhead carry-on. Always verify your specific fare rules on the airline’s website before arriving at the airport gate.
Is my backpack considered a personal item?
Yes, your backpack is considered a personal item as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. If it’s too large, it will be treated as your carry-on bag.
What happens if my carry-on is too heavy?
If your carry-on exceeds the weight limit, the airline will require you to check the bag into the cargo hold. This may involve an overweight baggage fee depending on your ticket type.
Can i carry a laptop in my backpack?
Yes, you should keep your laptop in your backpack to ensure it stays with you during the flight. This protects your electronics from damage that can occur inside the overhead bin.
Does the backpack size matter for under-seat storage?
Yes, the backpack must be small enough to fit entirely under the seat in front of you. If it sticks out into the aisle, it’s a safety hazard and must be moved.
Are there weight limits for the backpack?
No, there’s rarely a specific weight limit for personal items, but you must be able to lift it comfortably into the space under your seat without assistance from the flight crew.
Can i bring a second bag if i have a medical device?
Yes, most airlines allow you to bring a medical device or mobility aid in addition to your two standard bags. Contact your airline in advance to confirm their specific documentation requirements for medical items.
Preparing for your flight
Start by checking your airline’s website for the exact dimensions allowed for your specific fare class. You should expect to see your backpack stored under the seat and your carry-on in the bin above. If you can’t lift your carry-on alone, ask for help before boarding.