My experience is that Tropic is usually very accommodating and allow a carry-on and another bag (large purse or backpack) unless the flight is full. My last trip back (Feb 1st) it was full, so I did have to check my carry-on, so I just pulled out my laptop and camera so it wouldn't get banged up.

Another thing you have to watch is any duty free liquids that you might have on your person. It can't go through security, so you may need to save a little room in your checked bags for that...