Carry-on definition: can we do this?

[MickeyMonstersMom]

I'm planning on mailing our toiletries in advance and flying with one small case for each of us to carry-on rather than check. The American Airlines site states that each passenger is limited to one carry-on plus one personal item. Included in their examples of acceptable personal items is "small bookbag-sized backpack." So can I bring one clear backpack for all three of us, along with the three carry-on suitcases?

 

[pamjb]

That would be certainly fine.

 

[salmoneous]

Just to be clear, a personal item is something that will fit in the seat in front of you. As long as the backpack will do so, you are fine.

 

[n2mm]

And, as long as those backpacks fit under the seat in front of you. However, keep in mind that if the overhead bins fill, you'll have to gate check your luggage. We flew UAL/TED last week and the plane was filled going down and back with business travellers with tons of luggage. Usually 2-3 pieces each and the FA did not say anything to them. So the folks who boarded as zone 3 and 4 did not have any luggage space so had to gate check some luggage.

 

[MickeyMonstersMom]

I don't mind gate-checking; I just hate waiting in that crowd around the baggage carousels! Thanks for the clarification.

 

[safetymom]

Most flights I am on with business people they know how to pack. They don't bring everything they own on the plane like some folks do.

If you gate check your luggage chances are you will have to go to baggage claim to get it. On the larger planes it just goes with the rest of the luggage.

 

[MickeyMonstersMom]

If you gate check your luggage chances are you will have to go to baggage claim to get it. On the larger planes it just goes with the rest of the luggage.

Yikes! Thanks for that tip! This is a short trip, so I know I can pack the small cases efficiently. I just hope we board in time to find room in the overhead compartments for that one suitcase that will have to go up there (to keep the backpack handy).