Is a Backpack Considered a Carry-On?
Yes, a backpack can be considered as a carry-on to fit in the overhead compartment, or it can be your personal item to have it placed under the seat in front of you. Whether the airline considers your backpack as a carry-on or a personal item, depends on the size. Most airlines have a general size limitation of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm), and a weight limitation of approximately 11-22 lbs (5-10 kg).Upon these measurements, the type of bag you use as your carry-on is optional, but most will opt for a larger bag or backpack if used for carry-on to maximize the capacity. Either way, a backpack is an agile, flexible travel companion that you can easily grab and swing on your back.
Explore: How to travel with only a carry-on.
The Perfect In-Between Size.
When choosing what backpack to use as a carry-on, there are some factors to consider. While your smaller backpack can go as a personal item, you can not bring your larger hiking bag as a carry-on, as it won't fit the overhead bin.
The perfect size for a backpack used as a carry-on is approximately 30L, like the Hugger Backpack 30L measuring 20.5 x 12.2 x 8.9 inches (52 x 31 x 22.5 cm), and is safely within the general airline restrictions, while offering a lot of internal volume.
Explore: The Hugger Family.
The Different Types of Luggage you can Bring Onboard.
1. Checked Luggage.
Checked luggage is the luggage that goes in the cargo hold of the plane. The checked bag is often larger, with more internal volume and you are allowed to bring more.
2. Carry-on Luggage.
The carry-on luggage can be a roller bag, spinner luggage, backpack, or duffel bag. Normally it is larger, and can fit in the overhead compartment inside the plane.
3. A Personal Item.
Most airlines allow for a free personal item as well as your carry-on. This is a smaller backpack, purse or tote bag that fits under the seat in front of you.
Wondering how to pack a backpack? Check out our guide here!
Personal Item Vs. Carry-On.
Placement
Personal item: Underseat
Carry-on: Overhead compartment
General Size
Personal item: 18 × 14 × 8 inches (45 × 35 × 20 cm)
Carry-on: 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm)
Weight
Personal item: No specific limit
Carry-on: Up to 15–22 lbs (7–10 kg)
The Benefits of a Carry-On Backpack.
Choosing a backpack over a traditional check-in bag offers a level of mobility and flexibility that wheels can’t match. It’s the ultimate choice for the traveler who values full speed and versatility.
- Hands-free navigation: Keep your hands free for the essentials like your boarding pass, passport, phone, or coffee allowing you to move through the gate and onto the plane effortlessly.
- Ready for any terrain: A backpack makes it easier to handle any type of terrain like stairs, uneven city streets, or public transport.
- Flexible packing: Backpacks can easily be tucked into a tight overhead bin during a full flight.
- Create one unit: If you are traveling with more luggage, our patented Hook-Up System™ lets you attach your backpack to your larger bag so they move as one.
Start Your Journey. Explore Our Carry-On Backpacks.
Streamline your adventure with a carry-on designed to move with you. From packing and transit to finally reaching your destination, our backpacks are built to handle any trip without the bulk. Whether you need a compact bag for a quick flight or a larger pack for a long weekend, we have the right size and style for your trip.
To Sum it Up.
Your backpack is a carry-on if it meets the airline’s overhead bin dimensions, typically around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. If it’s compact enough to slide under the seat in front of you, it’s a personal item.
- A 30L backpack is the ultimate size for a carry-on backpack. It maximizes your packing volume while staying safely within the general carry-on limits of 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
- Aim to keep your pack between 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg).
Stay handsfree with your backpack as your carry-on.
Your Questions Answered.
What size backpack is considered a carry-on?
As with any type of carry-on, the general rule for most airlines are bags measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm) can go as carry-on, while larger than this qualify as check-in bag.
Can I bring a personal item and a backpack?
Yes, if your ticket qualifies for a carry-on, you can bring one personal item under the seat in front of you as well as a backpack for the overhead compartment. If you are unsure, check with your specific airline to make sure they don't operate with other rules.
