Airplane carry-on, can I use a hiking backpack instead of checking a suitcase?

Question

I am travelling to the Caribbean soon and would rather just take what I need with me on the plane as carry-on. I am travelling American Airlines and would like to just take a hiking backpack style bag instead of a suitcase, can I? what size? thanks

Answer 1

Just take your underwear in a small bag.  No backpack.  I never travel with much more than that, because I want to ENJOY MY VACATION.  Not lug around a pack letting the whole frackin world know I'm a tourist.

Then I go shopping with a purpose.  Get a swimsuit or whatever I need when I want it for whatever I might need.  

Its a vacation, enjoy yourself.  Pack lightly so you can bring stuff backkkkkk.

Answer 2

yes, but you have to think about the things you are taking with such as toothpaste, shampoo, liquid makeup, bugspray, all liquids can only be 100 ml or 3.4 oz. or less.

Answer 3

check tha airline website for sizes,  butyes you can usually fit those as a carry on.  Just remember that all liquids and gels in a carry-on must be 3oz or less and all must fit inot a One Quart clear bag.  this bag must be removed at security for inspection.

Answer 4

If you don't check a bag, you must bring all of your toiletries in a plastic bag.    Go to the TSA website to get the requirements.   I am talking about toothpaste, hair gel, suntan lotion (any liquid, cream or gel).   There is also a size restriction of (I believe 1-2 ounces).  

This is why I check bags.   Not worth the bother to go through the nonsense to deal with the TSA

Answer 5

Check with the airlines you will be traveling on for their size restrictions. Generally, as long as your backpack will fit in the overhead storage compartment or under the seat in front, there shouldn't be a problem

Answer 6

As long as it fits in the overhead bin or under your seat you should be good!

Answer 7

well just use a suitcase cause it will be easier than trying to stuff everything you need in one bag

Answer 8

A hiking backpack is perfectly acceptable as a carry-on as long as it remains within the size limits. For American Airlines, a carry-on cannot exceed 45 linear inches (meaning if you measure the length, width, and height, those three numbers should not add up to more than 45 inches) and must weigh less than 40 pounds (link below).

Remember that in addition to one carry-on bag, you can take a personal item (purse, laptop bag, etc) that will fit under your seat.

Also keep in mind that liquid products (like shampoo, lotion, etc) in carry-on bags cannot exceed 3 oz each, and must be presented at security in a quart-sized clear plastic bag.

Answer 9

i think carry on should weigh like 50 pounds then u are allowed to carry it with u.

Answer 10

yes.. just make sure it fits the requirements of a carry-on bag

Answer 11

Yes Just as long as you can carry it on the airplane with you and it fits in the little cubby cases, its all good!

Answer 12

Very good idea, I think you have to pay $15.00 for a carry-on. Please let us know what happens. you have my e-address.

Answer 13

ya you can i had a backpack on it was fine

Answer 14

Here are their guidlines:

http://www.aa.com/aa/i18nForward.do?p=/t...

Edit:  That backpack is 52.5 linear inches in size, exceeding the 45" limit.  If they decided to measure it, they would force you to check it.