I have a backpack that’s the maximum size permitted for “personal item"

I hate that air lines made this happen. Every flight people with 2 huge bags taking up the bins, taking extra time loading them, bringing all sorts of nasty food and making a mess. It used to be easy, a small bag under the seat (because there was room), and a bigger bag in the hold.

People are really stretching the limits of "one plus a personal item" where personal item should be about the size of a medium to small purse.