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.
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If you need a bit more space than what a small backpack offers but don't want to lug around a large pack, go for a medium size. These have a capacity of 25 to 40 liters, which is just enough room for a change of clothes, a laptop, and these must-have travel accessories for every destination.
A personal item is any type of luggage that fits underneath the plane seat in front of you. Most domestic airlines in the United States require a personal item to be 18” x 14” x 8” or smaller in size. Personal items can include a purse, briefcase, small backpack, laptop bag, weekender or small duffel bag.
Airlines may sometimes ask you to buy a new seat in order to fit your big item. Then, the additional fee will be significant. Even worse, if your personal item is too large or heavy, it is possible that you have to leave it or be denied entry.
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. In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.
Personal Item Backpack (20L)We like this size travel bag because it will likely fit under the seat in front of you on a flight, which means no pesky carry-on fees or worrying about your bag getting lost, which is a big plus.
In general, travelers are permitted to bring into the plane one personal item and one carry-on bag with them on most flights. The personal item is often a small bag, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that is able to be stowed away beneath the seat that is directly in front of you.
While some airlines specify size limitations for personal items, others simply require the item to be small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you. For personal items, here's the standard size on major airlines in the United States: American Airlines – 18” x 14” x 8”
Domestic carry-on policies. A good rule of thumb is that if your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item. This includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptop bags, etc. Larger bags, including suitcases, must fit in the overhead bin compartment.
If your carry-on is 1-2 inches over the size limit, don't stress about it too much. Most likely, you'll be allowed to pass through without anyone saying anything.
American Airlines advises customers to travel with personal items that are no larger than 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches. If you are flying on Delta, be sure your personal item is 17 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches or smaller.
40L is perfectly within the size limits for carry on as long as it has the correct dimensions. Many bags, even 40L bags, don't however. They go for looks or whatever, they think will sell better. Almost all hiking/camping/backpacking bags of that size will NOT have the right dimensions.
The Military backpack in 28L or 36L would be a great choice if you're looking for a cabin-sized luggage that fits well in both the overhead compartment as well as underseat.