Traveling on a budget airline can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of rules and restrictions. One of the most common questions passengers ask is whether they can bring both a purse and a backpack on board when flying with an airline like Allegiant Air. If you’re planning a trip and want to make sure your essentials are within arm’s reach during your flight, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about carry-on allowances, personal items, size and weight restrictions, tips for packing, and how to avoid extra fees.
Understanding Allegiant Air’s Carry-On Policy
Allegiant Air is known for its no-frills service and ultra-low base fares. However, to keep those prices low, they charge extra for many amenities, including carry-on bags. It’s important to understand their policy clearly so you’re not caught off guard at the gate.
What Counts as a Personal Item?
According to Allegiant Air, passengers are allowed one personal item free of charge, provided it fits under the seat in front of them. A personal item can include:
- A purse
- A briefcase
- A small backpack
- A laptop bag
- A diaper bag
This is a key point: You are allowed one personal item for free, not two. So if you plan to bring both a purse and a backpack, you need to consider which one you designate as your personal item. The other will be considered a carry-on bag and will incur a fee unless it is stored inside your allowed personal item.
What is a Carry-On Bag?
A carry-on bag must meet specific size dimensions (9” x 14” x 22” including handles and wheels) and is stored in the overhead bin. Allegiant charges for carry-ons unless you’ve purchased a Bundled or Premier fare.
Here are the three main fare tiers:
- Starter Fare: Includes only a personal item free. Carry-ons cost extra.
- Bundled Fare: Includes both a personal item and one carry-on in the overhead bin, free of charge.
- Premier Fare: Includes all the benefits of the Bundled fare plus additional advantages such as bonus points, priority boarding, and free changes.
So, your ability to bring both a purse and a backpack without paying extra depends largely on the type of fare you purchase.
Can I Bring Both a Purse and a Backpack?
This is the burning question. The short answer is: Yes, but with conditions.
Free Option: One Must Be a Personal Item
If you’re flying with just a personal item (say, a small backpack), then technically, you cannot bring a separate purse without paying. However, here’s a commonly accepted strategy: pack your purse inside your backpack. As long as your backpack fits under the seat and is considered your personal item, the purse can remain inside it and you’re still within policy. You can then remove the purse once seated.
Alternatively, if your purse is small enough to qualify as the personal item, you can place a lightweight backpack (or collapsible tote) inside it. But realistically, this only works with very compact bags.
What If I Want Both Out?
If you want both your purse and backpack to be out during boarding—say, one on your back and one in your hand—you’ll likely be considered as bringing two personal items if both aren’t stowed properly. Gate agents have discretion, and while some might let it slide if the items are small, others may require one to be checked or tagged with a carry-on fee.
To avoid confusion and fees, here are your best options:
Option 1: Purchase a Bundled or Premier Fare
This is the most reliable way to bring both items without stress. With the Bundled fare, you can bring:
- One personal item (e.g., purse) under the seat
- One carry-on bag (e.g., backpack) in the overhead bin
That means you can wear your backpack, carry your purse, and board confidently knowing both are allowed.
Option 2: Use Your Backpack as the Personal Item
If you’re flying with the Starter fare, consider using your backpack as your free personal item. Choose a compact, slim backpack that fits under the seat. Then, either leave the purse at home or place it inside the backpack. You can take it out once you’re seated.
Option 3: Bring Only One
If saving money is the priority and you’re not flying a higher fare, consider traveling with just one bag—a backpack that serves as both your carry-on and purse. Choose a functional backpack with multiple compartments designed for both electronics and personal items. Many modern backpacks, such as those from brands like Herschel, Targus, or Bellroy, are specifically designed for this dual purpose.
Size and Dimension Guidelines
To make the most of your carry-on allowance, it’s essential to understand the exact size limits imposed by Allegiant.
Personal Item Dimensions
Your personal item must not exceed:
– 17” x 13” x 9” (height x width x depth)
This space must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Gate agents may perform a “seat fit test” using a measurement sizer. If your bag doesn’t pass, you’ll be charged for a carry-on or required to check it.
Carry-On Bag Dimensions
Allegiant allows carry-on bags up to:
– 9” x 14” x 22” (including handles and wheels)
These bags are placed in the overhead bin. If your backpack exceeds this size, it will not be allowed in the cabin unless checked.
Pro Tip: Measure Before You Fly
Many backpacks and purses marketed as “carry-on compliant” or “underseat friendly” may still be too large. Always measure your bag before packing. Use a tape measure and include any protrusions—straps, pockets, or handles. If it’s even slightly over, it could be flagged.
Weight Restrictions: Is There a Limit?
Unlike some other airlines, Allegiant does not specify a weight limit for personal items or carry-on bags. However, they reserve the right to check any bag that appears excessively heavy or that flight attendants or gate agents feel could pose a safety or handling risk.
That said, it’s good practice to keep your personal item under 15–20 pounds. Overly heavy bags can:
- Be difficult to stow safely
- Strain flight attendants when bin space is limited
- Increase the likelihood of being asked to check the bag
So while there’s no formal restriction, common sense and courtesy matter.
Avoiding Extra Fees: Smart Packing Strategies
Allegiant’s fee structure can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Here’s how to avoid paying more than necessary while still bringing everything you need.
Know the Carry-On Fees
As of the latest policy update, the costs for carry-on bags on Allegiant are:
| Bag Type | Purchased Online (Before Airport) | At the Airport/Gate |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag | $35–$60 (varies by route) | $60–$90 |
| Checked Bag (First) | $45–$65 | $65–$85 |
Tipping the scale literally and financially, bringing an extra bag at the gate can nearly double your ancillary costs. Always compare your options when booking.
Strategies to Save Money
To bring both your purse and backpack for little or no extra cost, consider the following:
1. Book a Bundled or Premier Fare
If you plan to travel with more than a small personal item, the Bundled fare often pays for itself by eliminating carry-on fees. For example, if a carry-on costs $50 at the airport and you’re flying round-trip, you’d pay $100. The Bundled fare typically costs less than that added fee, especially when booked in advance.
2. Pack Light and Combine Items
Ask yourself: “Do I really need a purse AND a backpack?” Could your wallet, phone, and essentials fit in a backpack with interior organization? Many travelers find that consolidating belongings streamlines their travel experience and saves money.
3. Use a Wheeled Backpack or Dual-Function Bag
Some backpacks come with trolley sleeves so they can fit over rolling suitcases. But more importantly, some are designed to function as both a personal item and a carry-on. Look for backpacks with slim profiles, collapsible sides, or removable daypacks.
Real-World Scenarios: When You Can (and Can’t) Bring Both
Let’s look at a few scenarios to clarify when bringing a purse and backpack works—and when it doesn’t.
Scenario 1: Business Traveler on a Starter Fare
You’re flying to a conference with your laptop, documents, phone charger, and a change of clothes. You also want your small handbag for essentials.
- Problem: You’ve booked a Starter fare with only a personal item allowed.
- Solution: Use your laptop backpack as the personal item (if it fits under the seat). Store your purse inside it. Once seated, remove the purse.
Scenario 2: Family Traveling with Kids
You’re flying with young children and need a diaper bag (purse-sized) and a backpack with toys and snacks.
- Possible Issue: Two separate bags may look like two personal items.
- Best Approach: Either purchase a Bundled fare for each adult, or use the larger backpack as the personal item and place the diaper bag inside. You can also designate the diaper bag as the personal item and keep toys in a smaller pouch.
Scenario 3: Backpacker with a Daypack
You’re traveling with a large backpack as your main luggage and a small daypack you want to keep on hand.
- Important: Your main backpack will be a checked bag unless it’s under the size limit.
- Smart Move: Use the small daypack as your personal item (if it fits under the seat). Bring your purse-style wallet or fanny pack inside it.
Gate Agent Discretion: What You Need to Know
Allegiant’s policies state clear rules, but enforcement can vary.
Some gate agents are more lenient, especially if:
- The flight isn’t full
- Your bags are clearly small
- You’re not trying to store large items in the cabin
However, during peak travel times or on full flights, Allegiant often enforces policy strictly. Agents may:
- Tag bags for gate check
- Charge immediate carry-on fees
- Prevent boarding until payment is made
To avoid drama:
- Arrive early
- Be courteous
- Have your boarding pass and ID ready
- Be prepared to pay or check a bag if required
Remember: There are no free passes for oversized or multiple bags.
Prohibited Items: What NOT to Pack in Your Purse or Backpack
Even if your bags meet size and fee requirements, you must follow TSA guidelines. Items not allowed in carry-ons (including personal items) include:
- Liquids over 3.4 oz (100ml) in individual containers unless stored in a quart-sized clear bag
- Sharp objects like knives, box cutters, or scissors with blades over 4 inches
- Firearms or weapons (even replica or toy versions)
- Self-defense sprays, including pepper spray
- Tools over 7 inches, such as screwdrivers or wrenches
- Certain sports equipment
Electronics like laptops and tablets are allowed but must be easily accessible for screening.
Tips for a Smooth Boarding Experience
Now that you understand the rules, here’s how to ensure everything goes smoothly on your travel day.
1. Choose the Right Bag
Invest in a backpack rated for under-the-seat use. Look for slim designs with dimensions under 17” x 13” x 9”. Some popular options include:
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack (10L)
- Amazon Basics Under-Seat Carry-On
- SwissGear ScanSmart Laptop Backpack
2. Use Packing Cubes or Compartments
Keep your backpack organized with internal dividers. This makes it easy to stow quickly and reduces the temptation to pull everything out mid-boarding.
3. Wear What You Can
To save space and avoid fees, wear bulky items like jackets, boots, or sweaters. Put your small essentials (phone, wallet, passport) in your pockets.
4. Prepay for Carry-Ons Online
If you know you’ll need a carry-on bag, prepay during booking or via your reservation online. This can save you up to 40% compared to paying at the airport.
5. Know Your Fare Benefits
Double-check what your ticket includes before heading to the airport. You can view this in your itinerary under “Bags” on Allegiant’s website or app.
Final Verdict: Yes, You Can Bring a Purse and Backpack—But Smart Planning is Key
So, to answer the original question: Yes, you can bring a purse and backpack on Allegiant Air. However, doing so without incurring fees requires one crucial step—booking a Bundled or Premier fare.
If you’re on the Starter fare, you’re limited to one personal item. That means either combining both bags into one, leaving one behind, or paying extra at the gate. The cost of a carry-on fee often outweighs the price difference of upgrading your fare, especially on round-trips.
For frequent travelers, families, or anyone who likes to have easy access to their essentials, the Bundled fare is usually the smarter and more economical choice.
Bottom Line Takeaways
- You can bring both a purse and backpack, but only one counts as a personal item without extra charge.
- The Bundled or Premier fare includes both a personal item and a carry-on, making it ideal for multi-bag travelers.
- Measurement matters: Ensure your personal item is under 17” x 13” x 9” and fits under the seat.
- No weight limit officially, but very heavy bags may be flagged.
- Avoid gate fees by understanding your fare tier and packing accordingly.
By understanding and planning within Allegiant’s carry-on framework, you can travel comfortably and cost-effectively—without worrying about unexpected fees or gate conflicts. Whether you’re flying for business, vacation, or a weekend getaway, a little knowledge goes a long way in making air travel smoother, smarter, and stress-free.
Can I bring both a purse and a backpack as carry-on items on Allegiant Air?
Yes, you can bring both a purse and a backpack on Allegiant Air, as long as both items meet the airline’s personal item size restrictions. Allegiant allows each passenger to bring one personal item free of charge in addition to their carry-on bag, which must be purchased during booking. The personal item, such as a purse or backpack, must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
To qualify as a personal item, your purse or backpack should serve a typical personal function and not appear to be a second piece of luggage. If either item exceeds the size limits or seems like an attempt to bypass carry-on fees, gate agents may require you to check one bag for an additional fee. Always measure your items beforehand to ensure compliance and avoid last-minute surprises.
Does Allegiant consider a backpack a personal item or a carry-on?
Allegiant Air considers a backpack a personal item only if it adheres to the airline’s specified personal item dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. A small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you qualifies as a free personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small duffel. In this case, you can bring the backpack along with a separate carry-on bag purchased during booking.
However, if your backpack is larger or placed in the overhead bin, it will likely be counted as your carry-on and subject to the carry-on fee unless reserved. When traveling with just a backpack, ensure that it complies with the personal item size to avoid paying extra. Using a slim, foldable backpack designed for under-seat storage increases your chances of it being accepted as a personal item.
Do I need to pay for carry-on luggage when flying Allegiant?
Yes, Allegiant Air charges a fee for carry-on luggage placed in the overhead bin. Unlike some airlines that include one carry-on bag for free, Allegiant requires passengers to pre-pay for a carry-on during booking, or face higher fees at check-in or the gate. The cost typically increases the closer you get to departure, so it’s best to add the carry-on option early when purchasing your ticket.
Your personal item—like a purse, small backpack, or briefcase—does not require a fee as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. However, only one personal item per passenger is allowed, and it must remain within the size limit of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Attempting to bring a carry-on without paying will result in the bag being checked at the gate for a fee, which is usually more expensive than pre-booking.
What happens if my purse or backpack doesn’t meet size requirements?
If your purse or backpack exceeds the allowed dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches for a personal item, it may be required to be checked at the gate for a fee. Allegiant uses sizers at the gate to determine if a bag fits overhead or under the seat, and oversized personal items may not be permitted in the cabin unless you’ve paid for a carry-on. The gate agent has the final say on whether your item complies.
You could face additional charges ranging from $35 to $50 at the gate for checking an unapproved bag, compared to lower pre-booked baggage fees. To avoid such extra costs, use a tape measure or test-fit your bag in a suitcase sizer before you travel. Collapsible purses or backpacks that compress to the correct size are ideal choices for ensuring compliance.
Can I bring my diaper bag and a personal item on Allegiant Air?
Yes, Allegiant Air allows an additional diaper bag for passengers traveling with infants or young children, in addition to the standard personal item. The diaper bag must also meet the personal item size limit of 18 x 14 x 8 inches and fit under the seat. This accommodation is designed to help parents travel with essential baby supplies without paying extra fees.
You may still need to purchase a carry-on if you have extra luggage beyond the diaper bag and one personal item. The diaper bag is not considered a carry-on and cannot be stored in the overhead bin unless you’ve paid for carry-on access. Make sure your diaper bag is well-organized and compact to avoid issues at security or boarding.
Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags and personal items on Allegiant?
Allegiant Air does not publicly enforce a weight limit for carry-on bags or personal items like purses and backpacks. The focus is instead on the physical dimensions—your personal item must not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches, and your carry-on must be small enough to fit in the overhead bin. As long as the bag meets size requirements and can be safely stowed, weight alone is typically not an issue.
However, if a bag appears excessively heavy or poses a safety risk during boarding, the crew may ask you to check it. While rare, this could happen with overpacked backpacks or luggage filled with dense materials. To travel smoothly, pack light and distribute weight evenly to ensure easy handling and stowage.
Can I bring a medical bag or assistive device in addition to my personal item?
Yes, Allegiant Air permits passengers to bring necessary medical bags, equipment, or assistive devices in addition to their personal item without additional fees. Items such as insulin coolers, CPAP machines, mobility aids, and prescribed medications are exempt from size and count restrictions, provided they are essential for your health during the flight. These items must be accessible during the flight and may need to be stored in designated areas.
You do not need to pre-book space for medical items, but it’s advisable to notify Allegiant in advance if you’re traveling with larger medical equipment. While most devices are allowed, you should verify specific requirements with the airline, especially for powered devices or oxygen tanks, which may have additional rules. Always keep medications and essential items in your personal bag in case your medical equipment needs to be checked.