Planning your next flight and wondering about baggage allowances? Let’s clear up the rules about bringing both a purse and a backpack on your flight, helping you pack efficiently and avoid any last-minute surprises at the gate.
Understanding Airline Policies for Carry-On and Personal Items
Most airlines follow a standard two-item policy: one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger. This means you can typically bring both your backpack and purse, provided one qualifies as your carry-on and the other as your personal item. These policies balance passenger convenience with cabin space limitations, with carry-on luggage designated for overhead bins and personal items fitting under the seat in front.
What is Considered a Personal Item?
A personal item must be smaller than a standard carry-on and fit completely under the seat in front of you. Airlines focus on dimensions rather than bag type, offering flexibility in your choice of personal item.
- Purses and small handbags
- Compact backpacks
- Laptop bags
- Briefcases
- Camera bags
- Small tote bags
Typical Carry-On Size Limits Across Airlines
| Item Type | Standard Dimensions | Typical Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on Bag | 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) | 15-22 pounds (7-10 kg) |
| Personal Item | 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) | No specific limit |
Airline-Specific Policies: American Airlines and Spirit
While most carriers allow one carry-on plus one personal item, specific restrictions vary significantly between airlines. Understanding these differences is crucial for avoiding unexpected fees and gate check requirements.
American Airlines: Carry-On and Personal Item Guidelines
- Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels)
- Personal item size: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
- No weight limit for domestic flights
- International flights: approximately 22 pounds (10 kg) limit
- Both items included with all tickets, including basic economy
Spirit Airlines: Understanding Their Baggage Rules
Spirit Airlines operates differently from traditional carriers. All passengers receive one free personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches), but carry-on bags incur additional fees unless you’re a Saver$ Club member or have purchased a Bundle It Fare.
Options for bringing both items:
- Pack a smaller purse inside your backpack as one personal item
- Pay for a carry-on (22 x 18 x 10 inches) and use your purse as the personal item
- Join Saver$ Club for discounted baggage rates
- Purchase a Bundle It Fare that includes carry-on allowance
Tips for Traveling with Carry-On Only
Mastering carry-on only travel can save you time, money, and stress. With careful planning, the combined space of a carry-on and personal item provides ample room for most trips. Remember to verify your airline’s specific size restrictions and ensure your personal item fits under the seat while your carry-on meets overhead bin requirements.
Efficient Packing Strategies
When limited to carry-on luggage, strategic packing becomes essential. The key lies in selecting versatile clothing that creates multiple outfits within a coordinated color palette. Opt for lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that layer well.
- Roll clothes instead of folding to maximize space
- Use packing cubes for compression and organization
- Stuff socks and underwear inside shoes
- Utilize all backpack and carry-on pockets
- Choose multi-purpose electronic devices
- Pack travel documents and flight essentials in your personal item
- Store bulkier items in your carry-on
Managing Liquid Restrictions
The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule requires all liquids to be in 3.4-ounce (100ml) containers, fitting into one quart-sized clear plastic bag. To maximize space within these constraints, consider these alternatives:
- Solid alternatives:
- Shampoo bars
- Deodorant sticks
- Powder sunscreen
- Solid perfumes
- Travel-sized containers for essential liquids
- Multi-purpose products (e.g., tinted moisturizer with SPF)
- Hotel-provided toiletries
- Purchase additional items at destination
What to Do If Your Bags Exceed Size Limits
Even with careful planning, you might occasionally face issues with oversized carry-on luggage at the gate. Airlines have established procedures for gate-checking oversized items, typically involving immediate transfer to the cargo hold. While gate-checked items are usually among the first returned after landing, be aware that fees vary significantly between airlines, with budget carriers often charging premium rates.
Understanding Gate-Checking Procedures
During boarding, gate agents will measure suspicious bags using a sizer frame. If your bag exceeds limits, prepare for gate-checking by:
- Removing essential items:
- Travel documents
- Medications
- Electronic devices
- Valuables and jewelry
- Items needed upon landing
- Transferring essentials to your personal item
- Removing external straps or attachments
- Securing identification tags
- Collecting your claim tag
