In Florida, as of 2026, you can legally carry a concealed firearm in a backpack without a permit, provided you meet the same eligibility criteria required for a concealed weapons license (e.g., being at least 21, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and not a convicted felon). This is part of Florida's "Permitless Carry" (Constitutional Carry) law that went into effect in July 2023. Carrying in a backpack is considered "concealed carry," and the firearm must be carried in a manner that conceals it from the ordinary sight of another person. However, you must carry a valid government-issued photo ID at all times while carrying. There are still many "prohibited locations" where you cannot carry, even in a backpack, including schools, courthouses, polling places, and many bars or establishments primarily serving alcohol. While a permit is no longer required for residents and visitors who meet the criteria, carrying in a bag is often discouraged by safety experts because it is harder to secure and slower to access in an emergency compared to an on-body holster.