Understanding Airline Carry-on Luggage Size Restrictions: Essential Insights

The countdown to your vacation is nearly at an end, and packing time is here. While luggage regulations differ by region, the size restrictions for carry-on luggage tend to remain largely consistent across most airlines.

While you may sometimes manage to bring an oversized bag on board, airlines can enforce strict carry-on size limits, so it's wise to plan ahead. Selecting the ideal carry-on luggage to adhere to these guidelines can significantly reduce travel anxiety. Here's how to choose the perfect suitcase for your journey—no negotiations, pleading, or, worst of all, last-minute check-ins necessary.

What are the dimensions for carry-on luggage?

Although there may be slight variations among airlines, the standard size limit for carry-on luggage is 22" x 14" x 9", including the handle and wheels. Some domestic airlines, like Frontier and Southwest, permit 24-inch luggage as a carry-on. This size guideline helps ensure that your bag—and ideally, everyone else's—will fit into the overhead compartment during your flight. The primary advantage of traveling with only carry-on luggage is the ability to disembark straight from the plane and head to your destination without waiting for checked baggage.

What are the weight restrictions for carry-on luggage?

For many leading domestic airlines—like Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue—there are no specific weight limits for carry-on bags. You just need to be able to lift it overhead into the storage compartment. Even when airlines list a weight limit on their websites, they often don't check your carry-on bags. As long as your bag doesn’t look overstuffed, you're likely in the clear. However, weight is crucial for smaller commuter planes due to safety regulations and on budget international carriers such as Easyjet and Ryanair.

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What qualifies as a personal item?

Alongside your carry-on suitcase, most airlines permit one personal item. This could be a laptop bag, purse, briefcase, beach tote—anything small that you prefer. Personal item regulations differ by airline, with some providing no specific guidelines. In those cases, a good rule of thumb is that it should fit under the seat in front of you.

The primary distinction between carry-on luggage and a personal item lies in their size: a diaper bag is typically considered a personal item, while a travel stroller qualifies as a carry-on. Depending on dimensions, an instrument may fall into either category. Generally, a garment bag is treated as a carry-on since it usually won't fit under the seat, but many airlines allow you to bring a small suitcase along with a garment bag. When uncertain, it’s best to confirm with the airline beforehand.

What is the ideal carry-on luggage?

Opinions on the top luggage brands vary widely, but the best carry-on suitcase for you is ultimately the one that meets your travel needs. For frequent travelers, a sturdy bag is a wise investment, while occasional vacationers can opt for a more budget-friendly option. Whether you prefer a softside like a duffel bag, hardside luggage, two-wheel rollaboards, or a convenient backpack, you’ll find choices from well-known brands like Samsonite as well as newer brands like July. Be sure to check bag dimensions and the carry-on regulations of your preferred airlines to ensure compatibility.

What items are permitted in a carry-on bag?

The contents of your carry-on bag are subject to regulations. Alongside the restrictions for checked luggage—such as bans on firearms, lithium batteries, and other hazardous items—you cannot carry liquid, paste, aerosol, gel, or cream containers larger than 3.4 ounces through security. These must fit into a one-quart zip-top bag. This rule applies in the U.S., irrespective of your travel destination, although there are more lenient regulations for items like baby food, medications, and breast milk. Always verify your airline's specific rules to avoid disposing of anything at the gate.

What are the typical international carry-on dimensions?

Globally, most smaller regional or budget airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair typically accept carry-on suitcases measuring 22" high and 14" wide—including handles and wheels—but you might incur fees to bring them on board. However, certain local airlines enforce stricter size limits of 21" or even less. If you plan to fly on smaller planes or with carriers that have tighter requirements, it's wise to choose a smaller carry-on bag. This will help you avoid hefty last-minute checked bag fees and ensure your luggage is accepted across all airlines.

Continue reading for additional airline-specific details.

Alaska Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: Not specified
• Personal item: One personal item allowed, such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag

Allegiant Air

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9''; fees apply ($15-75 based on reservation timing)
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: Not specified
• Personal item dimensions: 14 x 18 x 8"

When booking with a budget airline, it’s crucial to scrutinize the details. Often, when the low fare appears tempting, packing light is essential to maintain those savings. With Allegiant, your personal item is complimentary, but there is a charge for carry-on luggage.

American Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9"
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: Not specified
• Personal item dimensions: 18'' x 14'' x 8''; must fit under the seat in front of you

American Airlines' ticket prices include both a carry-on and a personal item, even in Basic Economy.

Delta Air Lines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: Not specified
• Personal item: One allowed, such as a purse, briefcase, camera bag, or diaper bag

There are three exceptions to the weight limit:

Singapore, Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN): 15 pounds or 7 kg

Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 22 pounds or 10 kg for domestic flights

Shanghai, Pudong International Airport (PVG): 22 pounds or 10 kg

Frontier Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 24'' x 16'' x 10''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: 35 pounds
• Personal item dimensions: 8'' x 18'' x 14''

Hawaiian Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 45 linear inches
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: 25 pounds
• Personal item: One allowed, such as a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or similar item; must fit under the seat in front of you

JetBlue

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: None specified
• Personal item dimensions: 17'' x 13'' x 8''

JetBlue has a loyal following for good reason: it not only provides extra legroom for passengers but also eases some of the stress related to carry-on luggage size limits. While the carry-on size restrictions align with most airlines, the personal item dimensions are more generous.

Southwest Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 24'' x 16'' x 10''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: None specified
• Personal item: Generally not larger than 18.5'' x 8.5'' x 1''; must fit under the seat in front of you

Another airline known for its generosity, Southwest offers more spacious personal item and carry-on size limits than most others.

Spirit Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 18'' x 10''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: None specified
• Personal item dimensions: 18'' x 14'' x 8''

United Airlines

• Carry-on luggage dimensions: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Maximum weight for carry-on luggage: None specified
• Personal item dimensions: 17'' x 10'' x 9''; must fit under the seat in front of you