Personal Carry-On bag? ?

Question

Are you allowed a sleeping bag in a duffel bag as a "personal carry-on bag", or as a blanket? I'm trying to get my sleeping bag accepted as a free carry-on, allong with my one carry-on piece on luggage, so I can avoid any baggage charges.

Answer 1

Yes,

as long as your sleeping bag, after its in its duffel will be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. think, a stuffed backpack ..will work.  

Answer 2

No, the "personal" bag is defined as a purse or laptop, something small.  However, you might try taking it onto the plane; if there is enough room in the overheads, they might allow it.  If not, they'll have to do a gate check and charge you.