Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Travel

Carry-on luggage: The rules you need to know before you fly

A guide to carry-on luggage size

By
laptop and phone sit in an open brown duffel bag on the floor
Oliur / Unsplash

Ever felt the panic surge as you approach the airport check-in, wondering if your bulging carry-on will survive the size test? This guide cuts to the chase! Learn carry-on size rules, weight limits, and what to pack in your carry-on luggage.

What is carry-on luggage?

view of brown duffel bag from top
White Field Photo / Unsplash

Carry-on luggage, often referred to as hand luggage, cabin baggage, or a carry-on bag, is designed to fit in the overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you on an airplane. The exact size allowed can vary depending on the airline, but generally, there are standard dimensions that most airlines adhere to.

Recommended Videos

What are the dimensions for carry-on luggage?

three pieces of blue luggage next to each other
American Green Travel / Unsplash

The typical dimensions for carry-on luggage are:

  • Domestic flights (U.S. airlines): 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • International flights: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm)

These measurements include the handles and wheels. It’s important to check your specific airline’s regulations, as there can be slight variations.

Related

What is the allowed weight for carry-on luggage?

someone carrying a duffel bag and someone carrying a backpack next to each other
Diana / Pexels

The weight limit for carry-on luggage can differ between airlines and countries. Generally, the weight limit ranges from 15 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg). However, airlines like Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue don’t have weight limits for carry-on bags on domestic flights (as long as you can lift it!). Some airlines are stricter about weight than others, so it’s essential to verify this information before packing.

What are the carry-on luggage rules?

person walking through an airport security line
Matthew Turner / Pexels

Understanding the rules for carry-on luggage can save you from unexpected surprises at the airport. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Size and weight restrictions: Adhere to the size and weight limits specified by your airline.
  2. Personal items: Most airlines allow an additional personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, alongside your carry-on luggage.
  3. Liquids: Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols. Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, placed in a 1-quart-sized, clear, resealable bag, with one bag per passenger.
  4. Prohibited items: Sharp objects, firearms, and other dangerous items are not allowed in carry-on luggage.
  5. Electronic devices: Ensure your electronic devices are charged, as you may be asked to turn them on during security checks.

What is allowed in carry-on luggage?

man packing suitcase with headphones on
Vlada Karpovich / Pexels

Being aware of what you can pack in your carry-on can make your trip smoother. Here’s a list of commonly allowed items:

  • Clothing and personal items: Shirts, pants, underwear, toiletries (following the 3-1-1 rule).
  • Electronic devices: Laptops, tablets, cameras, and e-readers.
  • Medication: Prescribed and over-the-counter medications. 
  • Food: Solid food items are generally allowed, but check for specific regulations on international flights.
  • Travel documents: Passport, boarding pass, and other necessary documents.

What are the carry-on luggage sizes for major airlines?

inside of an airplane
Kai Pilger / Pexels

While the dimensions for carry-on luggage are fairly standard, they can vary depending on the airline. Here are the allowed carry-on luggage sizes for some of the major airlines:

  • American Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • Delta Air Lines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • United Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • Southwest Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
  • JetBlue Airways: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • Alaska Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  • Spirit Airlines: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm)
  • Frontier Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
  • British Airways: 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm)
  • Air France: 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 inches (55 x 35 x 25 cm)
  • Lufthansa: 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm)
  • Emirates: 22 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 38 x 20 cm)
  • Qatar Airways: 20 x 15 x 10 inches (50 x 37 x 25 cm)

Always check with your specific airline before you travel, as regulations can change and sometimes vary even within the same airline based on the route or class of service.

FAQs

silhouette of an airplane outside during sunset
Marina Hinic / Pexels

What happens if my carry-on is too big?

If your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limits, you may be required to check it in, which could incur additional fees.

How strict are airlines with carry-on sizes?

This varies by airline and even by airport. Some airlines are very strict and will measure and weigh your carry-on, while others are more lenient.

What is a personal item?

A personal item is a small bag that airlines allow you to bring on the plane in addition to your carry-on luggage. It typically fits under the seat in front of you and can be a purse, backpack, laptop bag, briefcase, or even a small duffel bag. The size restrictions for personal items vary by airline, but they are generally smaller than carry-on luggage.

Can I bring duty-free items in my carry-on? 

Yes, duty-free items purchased at the airport after security checks are usually allowed in your carry-on.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Kelly Baker
Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.
These airlines are offering free elite status when you fly down under
You can earn free elite status on these airlines
Sydney Opera House

In 2025, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are offering free elite status for round-trip flights to Sydney, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand. Not only that, but recipients enjoy Mileage Plan MVP elite status through the end of 2026. And since both airlines are a part of the oneworld alliance, elite status transfers to multiple airlines.

Explore the South Pacific and enjoy these MVP Elite Status perks

Read more
Passport vs. REAL ID: Which one do you need and when?
Not sure if you need a passport or REAL ID? Let’s clear it up
Passport and plane ticket

Have you been hearing about the REAL ID program for quite some time now but aren’t really sure what all the fuss is about? That was my situation, too, until I realized the deadline to get a REAL ID was fast approaching, and I needed to get up to speed, especially if I wanted to fly anywhere. That got me wondering – what’s the difference between a passport vs. REAL ID? And when do I actually need each one? If you’re asking the same questions, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know so you can decide what works best for you.
What is a passport?

A passport is your ticket to international travel. It’s an official government document that proves your identity and citizenship. And without a passport, you’re not getting far beyond U.S. borders.

Read more
How much is a first-class flight? Here’s the breakdown
This is the true cost of flying first class (and how to save)
First class on an airplane

Have you ever found yourself wondering, how much is a first-class flight? I know I did. Before I had the chance to experience it myself, first class always felt like a luxury that was just out of my reach. But now that I know what it actually costs, I’m here to share what I’ve learned about the true price of flying first class. So, here’s how much a first-class flight really costs.
Factors that affect the price of first-class flights

First things first, the price of a first-class ticket can vary depending on the different factors at play. But there is a general range, so let’s break it down a bit.
The airline and route
The cost of a first-class ticket depends mainly on the airline and the route you’re taking. For example, on a popular international route like New York to London, a first-class ticket can range from $4,000 to $7,000, sometimes even more. If you’re flying from Los Angeles to Tokyo, that price tag can jump to $14,000 or more. These prices fluctuate based on the airline’s pricing structure and the demand for seats on that specific flight.
The flight duration
Another big factor is the length of the flight. The longer the journey, the more expensive the first-class ticket tends to be. A shorter domestic flight might cost somewhere in the range of $1,000 for a first-class seat, while international flights that can last 10 hours or more could easily push into the $8,000-$15,000 range for first class. 
When you book your flight
Timing also plays a big role in the cost of your first-class ticket. The Luxury Travel Expert recommends booking your flight as early as possible to secure the best deals. So if you book months in advance, you’ll probably find better fares. However, airlines do occasionally offer last-minute discounts or promotions to fill seats, although this isn’t always the case. It’s always best to plan ahead, but keep an eye out for any deals, especially during off-peak travel seasons.
The time of year
Airline ticket prices also vary depending on the time of year. Traveling during peak times, like the holidays or summer vacation, will typically result in higher prices. Airlines usually raise prices to accommodate the increased demand during these periods.
What do you get for the price of first class?

Read more