If you're using a lightweight pack, you should be able to take it as a carry-on. My wife and I did this with our GoLite Jams (hers is 2600 ci, mine is 3100) and had no problem. We also didn't have to worry about the airline losing them since we had them with us the whole time.

This was the first time I've ever flown with backpacking gear, and it all worked out pretty well. Yet another case for small, lightweight backpacks.

For the record, we had to use a bear canister since we were in Sequoia NP. I was able to fit it in my 3100 ci pack along with my sleeping bag, pad, extra clothing, water, and other smaller essentials with no problem. I used the full capacity of the pack, but it worked. My wife carried the tarptent and our cooking gear.

Going solo, I'd have needed to either strap the canister to the outside of my pack or bring a bigger pack, but since we were together, the small Jams were fine for a five day trip.