On Amtrak, a standard purse does not count as one of your two allotted "carry-on" bags; instead, it is classified as a personal item. Amtrak’s generous baggage policy allows each passenger to bring two personal items and two carry-on bags free of charge. Personal items, which include purses, small backpacks, laptop bags, or briefcases, must not exceed 25 lbs (12 kg) and dimensions of 14 x 11 x 7 inches. Carry-on bags can be much larger, up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches. Because a purse is considered a personal item, you still have your full "two carry-on" allowance available for larger suitcases or duffel bags. This makes Amtrak one of the most flexible travel options in the United States, as you can technically board with four separate pieces of luggage (two small, two large) without incurring any additional fees, provided you can safely carry them yourself.