Yes, you can bring a carry on and backpack on almost every major airline flight. Most carriers allow one standard carry-on bag and one smaller personal item, so you can bring a carry on and backpack as long as the second bag fits under the seat in front of you.
Can you bring both a backpack and carry on
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Most airlines define cabin baggage as one primary roller bag and one personal item, such as a laptop bag or small daypack. Always check your specific ticket type, as basic economy fares on some airlines restrict the use of overhead bin space.
| Airline | Personal item limit | Overhead bag limit |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 18x14x8 inches | 22x14x9 inches |
| Delta Air Lines | 17x13x10 inches | 22x14x9 inches |
| United Airlines | 17x10x9 inches | 22x14x9 inches |
| Southwest Airlines | 16.25×13.5×8 inches | 24x16x10 inches |
| JetBlue | 17x13x8 inches | 22x14x9 inches |
Factors that change your allowance
The primary factor determining if you can carry both bags is the airline’s policy on personal items versus overhead bin bags. A personal item must fit entirely under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on bag is intended for the overhead compartment. If your backpack is too large to fit under the seat, the gate agent may force you to check it, which often incurs a fee.
When traveling on smaller regional aircraft, overhead bin space is often limited regardless of your ticket class. In these cases, even if you have a compliant carry-on, you might be required to gate-check the larger bag. You can find the specific TSA carry-on baggage guidelines regarding prohibited items to ensure your bags pass through security without delays.
If you’re flying on a basic economy fare, check if your ticket includes overhead bin access; if it does not, you must check your carry-on bag or pay an upgrade fee at the gate.
Procedures for smooth boarding
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- Measure your bags before leaving for the airport to ensure they meet the specific dimensions listed on your airline’s website.
- Pack heavy items in your carry-on roller bag, as this is the item placed in the overhead bin.
- Keep essentials like medication, electronics, and documents in your backpack so they remain with you at your seat.
- Organize your liquids in a clear, quart-sized bag at the top of your backpack for easy access during the security screening process.
- Verify your boarding group to ensure you get to the gate early enough to secure overhead bin space before it fills up.
The common mistake with weight
The most common mistake travelers make is assuming that because they have two bags, they can bring double the weight. While many airlines don’t strictly weigh carry-on bags, some international carriers enforce a combined weight limit, often around 15 to 22 pounds for both items.
If you exceed this, you may be forced to check your bag at the gate, which can cost significantly more than checking it in advance. Always weigh your packed bags at home using a luggage scale to avoid surprise fees at the airport.
When to seek airline assistance
- You have medical equipment that exceeds standard size limits, which requires pre-approval from the airline’s special assistance desk.
- Your backpack contains oversized gear that can’t fit under the seat or in the overhead bin, requiring a checked baggage arrangement.
- You’re flying on a connecting flight with a different airline, as policies for the second leg may differ.
- The gate agent requests a size check, as arguing creates delays that can lead to you being denied boarding.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a backpack and a purse?
Yes, most airlines count a backpack as your personal item, so you must store your purse inside the backpack or the carry-on bag to remain within the two-item limit.
Does a backpack count as a carry-on?
No, a backpack is typically classified as a personal item, provided it fits under the seat in front of you, while a carry-on is the bag for the overhead bin.
What happens if my backpack is too big?
If your backpack exceeds the under-seat dimensions, the airline will likely require you to check it as luggage, which may result in a checked bag fee at the gate.
Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?
Yes, while domestic US airlines rarely weigh bags, international carriers often set a limit between 15 and 22 pounds; check your specific carrier’s website for their current weight policy.
Can I bring a laptop bag in addition to my backpack?
No, you’re generally limited to one personal item, so you must consolidate your laptop bag and backpack into a single personal item or place one inside your carry-on.
Do children get a separate baggage allowance?
Yes, children with their own paid seat are typically entitled to the same carry-on and personal item allowance as an adult passenger, provided they meet the airline’s standard requirements.
How do I know if my bag fits under the seat?
You can verify this by checking the dimensions on your airline’s official website and measuring your bag’s height, width, and depth to ensure it’s under the stated maximum.
Conclusion
Start by checking your airline’s official website for their specific size limits for personal items and carry-on bags. You should expect to breeze through security if both bags meet these dimensions. If a gate agent flags your bag as oversized, stop immediately and follow their instructions to avoid further issues.
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