Is a backpack a "personal item" when it comes to carryons?
 

UA allows 1 piece of carryon luggage, plus one "personal item." Is a backpack considered a personal item? I heard Canada airport are being especially diligent about the one-carryon rule. I'm wondering if I'm going to be burned if I try and bring a backpack and a rollaboard bag.

If it is a backpack size that will fit under the seat in front of you, you will not have a problem bringing it + a rollerboard on UA.

Yes, a backpack is a "personal item", as long as it doesn't exceed the size requirements.

Is there a size requirements for backpacks as well?
IIRC, only purse has size requirements and other "personal items" such as briefcases, backpacks, etc doesn't have one other than I guess the max. carry-on item size limit?

From United's website: http://www.united.com/page/article/0,6867,1032,00.html

I was kind of surprised at this. I think another American carrier (AA, maybe?) has a size restriction on the personal item, but apparently United doesn't.

Edited to add: Yes, AA actually has size restrictions on the personal item:

" Personal item - includes: small backpack purse, briefcase, laptop bag OR a similar item such as book bag or tote that does not exceed 36 inches( length+width+height) and must fit under the seat."

That has not been the case for many months now.

Thanks for the update. I haven't transited a Canadian airport in about 6 months. Glad to hear it won't be an issue. Thanks guys!

I normally carry on a rollaboard and a decent-sized backpack (with a laptop) and have had no problems so far. Granted, sometimes I'm in J, where the carry-on policies are more lenient, but all the times I've been in Y, no problem either.

just to confirm for you, unless your backpack is like a camper's back pack, you'll be fine.

I normally do this in the US, but I'm wondering if it's more difficult out of Canada. Sounds like the one-carryon rule has gone away, though.

It is in fact easier sometimes in Canada depending on carrier, as AC still permits one carry on + one personal item + one women's small handbag.