Do Airlines Consider Backpacks as Personal Items in the U.S. and Europe?

It depends on the airline’s policy and the backpack’s size. Here’s a breakdown of rules for major carriers in both regions:

U.S. Airlines: Backpacks Usually Count as Personal Items

1. What Qualifies as a "Personal Item"?
   Most U.S. airlines (American, Delta, United, etc.) let you bring 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item at no extra cost. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples:
   • Small backpacks (e.g., daypacks, school bags)
   • Purses, briefcases
   • Laptop bags
   • Camera bags
2. Size Limits
   • Personal item: Typically ≤ 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
   • Carry-on bag: Usually ≤ 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm).
     If your backpack fits the personal item size, it’s free. If not, it’ll count as your carry-on (or need checking).
3. Exceptions for Budget Airlines
   Ultra-low-cost carriers (Spirit, Frontier) often charge for carry-ons. Some may only let you bring 1 free personal item (like a small backpack).

European Airlines: Similar Rules, But Budget Carriers Are Stricter

1. Mainstream Airlines (Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways)
   • Personal item: Small backpacks, purses, etc., usually ≤ 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
   • Carry-on: Typically ≤ 55 x 40 x 23 cm, weighing 8–10 kg max.
2. Budget Airlines (Ryanair, EasyJet)
   • Ryanair: Only 1 free personal item (e.g., tiny backpack) allowed, sized ≤ 40 x 20 x 25 cm. Carry-ons cost extra (€6–12+).
   • EasyJet: Free personal item up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm (must fit under the seat).
3. Weird Rules to Watch For
   Some airlines treat backpacks with laptops differently—they might count as a separate "electronics bag" or add to size limits.

Pro Tips to Avoid Fees

1. Check the Airline’s Website: Measure your backpack including pockets and straps. Use a soft tape measure.
2. Prioritize Essentials: If you need a laptop, use a slim backpack that fits under the seat to save carry-on allowance for larger items.
3. Budget Airlines Hate Big Bags: Oversized backpacks on Ryanair/EasyJet could cost €30–50. Pre-buy baggage allowance to save.

Bottom Line

• In the U.S.: Backpacks usually = free personal item, but double-check size limits (especially on budget airlines).
• In Europe: Mainstream airlines are lenient, but budget carriers nickel-and-dime you for oversized bags.

Always verify baggage rules on your airline’s website before flying!