Is a backpack a "personal item" when it comes to carryons?
#1
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Join Date: Jun 2007
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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.
#3
Join Date: Oct 2006
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Yes, a backpack is a "personal item", as long as it doesn't exceed the size requirements.
#4

Join Date: Oct 2004
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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?
#5
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Join Date: Sep 2006
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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."
Last edited by chollie; Sep 22, 2010 at 8:12 pm Reason: add more data
#7
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Join Date: Jun 2007
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#8




Join Date: May 2007
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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.
#10
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Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: YVR SFO
Programs: UA G
Posts: 4,868
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.
#11

Join Date: Sep 2006
Posts: 6,964
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.

