Can my child bring a backpack on a plane?

In general, a backpack is considered a personal item if it fits under the seat in front of you. This means that the backpack must be no larger than 22 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in height. If the backpack is larger than this, it will be considered luggage and must be checked.



Yes, children are absolutely allowed to bring a backpack on a plane, provided they have their own purchased seat. For most airlines, a child's backpack counts as either their "personal item" (if it fits under the seat in front of them) or their "carry-on bag" (if it goes in the overhead bin). It is a fantastic way to keep them occupied, as you can pack it with snacks, tablets, coloring books, and a change of clothes. If you are traveling with an infant as a "lap child" (under age 2 without a separate seat), policies vary; many airlines allow one diaper bag per infant in addition to the adult's allowance, but a standard school-sized backpack might be restricted unless it fits within the adult's personal item quota. Always ensure the backpack isn't too heavy for the child to carry through the terminal, though many parents end up "double-bagging" it over their own luggage during long walks.

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A backpack can be your carry on if it meets your airline's carry on size limits. A personal item is a smaller, secondary bag, which you'll stow under the seat in front of you. Read Carry Ons vs. Personal Items for more on the differences between the two.

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American Airlines
According to airline policy, any personal items stowed beneath seats should not exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches.

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Some things may seem almost impossible when you first have a baby—including going on long hikes in the woods. But with a well-fitting backpack carrier, these things are not only possible but also fun and enjoyable for both parents and young kids alike.

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As a general rule of thumb, anything smaller than the dimensions of a carry-on can be considered a personal item. However, every airline has different restrictions for size. In most cases, your backpack should be no more than 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

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Usually, many airlines won't check every carry-on but will instead go for ones that look oversized. If your luggage does not fit in the sizer, you might have to pay a checked bag fee along with the gate checking fee and have your bag transferred to the airplane's cargo.

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While this can be confusing, most popular airlines allow you to bring a carry-on and personal item, such as a backpack or purse. In general, your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on and under the specific airline's carry-on dimensions, allowing it to fit under the seat in front of you.

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What is considered a personal item bag varies from airline to airline, but a small purse, briefcase and laptop bag are always considered personal items. Backpacks, totes, and crossbody bags are typically considered personal items too. The key to remember is it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you.

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Dimensions for carry-ons vary by airline, but a good rule of thumb is that any backpack less than 45 liters should fit most airlines (but be careful with ultra-budget airlines — especially in Europe). Any bigger than that, and you risk extra charges.

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It is rare for airlines to weigh your carry on or hand luggage. So long as your bag is not clearly overweight, and you're able to carry it with ease – you shouldn't have any issues with a slightly overweight bag.

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Some airlines also publish weight limits. Volume: A 45L backpack is the maximum-sized carry on allowed on most US airlines. For international or budget airlines, choose a bag under 40L. If you want to pack ultralight, anything 35L or under can be carried on virtually any airline.

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? Flight Approved Carry on Backpack: Size of travel backpack: 20.47 x 12.99 x 8.66 . Capacity: 35L. This luggage backpack is meet the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights and also fits in the overhead compartment and the underseat in flight.

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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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Standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They'll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin. Car seats can be used onboard your flight too.

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There is no specific age limit for when a child should start wearing a backpack, but it is generally recommended that children start using a backpack when they begin carrying books and other school supplies. This typically starts around kindergarten or first grade, when children are around 5 or 6 years old.

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