Imagine sailing through the gate with zero baggage drama—no last-minute gate checks, surprise fees, or frantic repacking. The IATA recommends a 56 × 45 × 25 cm maximum (including wheels, handles, pockets) for carry-ons.
In 2025, U.S. heavyweights like American and Delta cap bags at 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm), while European carriers often hover around 55 × 40 × 23 cm.
Budget airlines (easyJet: 45 × 36 × 20 cm) and Ryanair’s Priority option (55 × 40 × 20 cm) bring their own twists.
Measure once, pack right, and keep wheels and handles in mind—or risk a £48 fine in the U.K.
How to Measure Your Bag
Here’s a concise, SEO-optimized expert guide to measuring your carry-on bag accurately—so you never get caught out by airline size limits. First, set your bag upright on a level surface (wheels down, handle retracted) and take three key dimensions—height, width, and depth—making sure to include wheels, handles, external pockets and any expandable sections.
Record measurements in both inches and centimeters, since some airlines publish limits in one unit or the other. Equip yourself with a reliable tape measure or a luggage gauge for on-the-spot checks, and consider smartphone ruler or AR apps as handy backups. Finally, avoid common pitfalls like ignoring protrusions, misreading units, measuring only empty bags, or skipping a final check once it’s packed.
1. Step-by-Step Measuring
- Position your bag upright on a flat surface, with wheels fully down and any telescopic handles fully retracted.
- Height (H): Measure from the bottom of the wheels up to the highest fixed point (typically the top handle).
- Width (W): Measure across the bag’s widest section, including side handles and external pockets.
- Depth (D): Measure from front to back at the deepest point, accounting for protruding pockets or zip-out expansions.
- Record both units: Convert each measurement into centimeters and inches—many airlines post limits in only one unit.
2. Tools to Use
- Tape measure: A metal or fiberglass tape measure gives precise readings down to 1 mm or 1/16 in, ideal for height, width, and depth.
- Luggage gauge: Compact plastic or metal gauges (often free at airport check-in) instantly verify compliance by sliding your bag into a size-cutout.
- Smartphone ruler apps: Apps like “Ruler – Measuring Tape” use your screen or camera to estimate lengths (in/cm), handy for quick spot checks—though less exact than physical tools.
- AR measurement apps: Augmented reality apps overlay digital rulers on your bag in real time, offering an intuitive way to visualize dimensions before you even unpack.
3. Common Mistakes
- Ignoring protrusions: Wheels, corner bumpers, external pockets, and folded-out handles can all push you over the limit—always include them.
- Misreading units: Mixing up inches (in) with centimeters (cm) is a frequent error—double-check your conversions (1 in = 2.54 cm).
- Measuring empty bags: A flat, unpacked bag can look smaller; measure after it’s fully packed, when bulges and compression straps are in play.
- Skipping a re-check: Manufacturer specs don’t account for variations when you add clothes, shoes, or souvenirs—measure again once loaded to avoid gate-check fees.
Quick Unit Conversion
| Inches (in) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|
| 22 | 55.88 |
| 14 | 35.56 |
| 9 | 22.86 |
› Tip: Keep a small tape measure or download an AR measuring app before you pack—this simple step can save you $25–$100 in gate-check fees and hours of stress at the airport.
› Next: Compare your final H×W×D against your airline’s carry-on limits to pack with confidence every time.
Global Standards & IATA Recommendations
IATA sets a recommended cabin baggage size of 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 18 × 10 in), including wheels, handles, pockets and any fixed attachments. While most major airlines reference this benchmark for consistency—British Airways, Lufthansa and Norse Atlantic among them—we still see meaningful variations in both dimensions and weight allowances across carriers. Crucially, these IATA guidelines are voluntary: individual airlines may enforce stricter limits depending on aircraft type, booking class or operational needs. Always double-check your carrier’s specific cabin policy before you pack.
IATA Guideline
- Maximum dimensions: 22 × 18 × 10 in (56 × 45 × 25 cm).
- Inclusions: These measurements must encompass wheels, protruding handles, expandable pockets and any other fixed protuberances.
- Industry adoption: Although officially “recommended,” this standard is treated as the de facto benchmark by luggage makers and travel advisors worldwide, appearing in 2025 carry-on charts for carriers like Delta and Copa.
Voluntary Nature
- Not legally binding: IATA cannot enforce its dimensions—airlines retain full discretion and may opt for smaller or lighter allowances for safety, weight-balancing or cabin-space reasons.
- Class & aircraft variations: Some carriers cap carry-on weight at 5 kg (11 lb) for basic economy fares or on regional jets, even if they allow a standard-sized bag.
- Always verify: To avoid last-minute gate-check fees or repacking, consult your airline’s official baggage page (e.g., Jet2, American, Aegean) for the exact cabin dimensions and weight limits you’ll need.
Quick Tip: Keep a foldable tape measure or smartphone AR-ruler in your carry-on—measuring on the go can save you up to $100 in unexpected fees!
Major U.S. Airlines: 2025 Carry-On Limits
Most U.S. carriers align with the FAA’s maximum carry-on dimensions of 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm), including wheels, handles and pockets. In 2025, American Airlines, Delta and United all adhere strictly to that standard, JetBlue follows with virtually identical limits (22 × 14 × 9 in), and Southwest offers a slightly larger allowance of 24 × 16 × 10 inches (61 × 41 × 25 cm). Below is your quick-reference table and detailed breakdown so you can pack confidently.
Quick-Reference Table
| Airline | Carry-On Dimensions (L × W × H) | Reference Link |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm) | [aa.com] |
| Delta Air Lines | 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm) | [delta.com] |
| United Airlines | 9 × 14 × 22 in (23 × 35 × 56 cm) | [united.com] |
| Southwest | 24 × 16 × 10 in (61 × 41 × 25 cm) | [support.southwest.com] |
| JetBlue | 22 × 14 × 9 in (55.88 × 35.56 × 22.86 cm) | [jetblue.com] |
Carrier-By-Carrier Breakdown
- American Airlines allows one carry-on bag up to 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 35 × 23 cm), with all protuberances.
- Delta Air Lines limits carry-on size to 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 35 × 23 cm) or 114 linear inches total; measurements include wheels and handles.
- United Airlines specifies a maximum of 9 × 14 × 22 inches (23 × 35 × 56 cm) for overhead bins, including handles.
- Southwest offers a more generous 24 × 16 × 10 inches (61 × 41 × 25 cm) allowance—again, wheels, handles and attachments count toward these limits.
- JetBlue mirrors the FAA standard at 22 × 14 × 9 inches (55.88 × 35.56 × 22.86 cm), inclusive of all external fixtures.
Pro Tip: Always measure your fully packed bag—bulges and compression straps can push you over the limit and trigger gate-check fees of $25–$100. Before you fly, click through to your airline’s official baggage page (links above) to confirm any recent updates. Pack smart and travel stress-free!
Budget & Regional Airlines: Quick Overview
Budget and regional carriers like easyJet and Ryanair offer streamlined, wallet-friendly cabin baggage options. While easyJet gives every passenger a complimentary under-seat bag (45 × 36 × 20 cm) and the option to add a larger overhead bag (56 × 45 × 25 cm) for a small fee, Ryanair’s standard fare includes one under-seat personal bag (40 × 20 × 25 cm) with a 10 kg overhead bag available to Priority customers. Below is a quick overview to help you pack smart and avoid last-minute fees.
easyJet
- Small under-seat bag: Every passenger can bring one small cabin bag (max. 45 × 36 × 20 cm, including handles and wheels) free of charge, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Weight allowance: There’s no strict weight limit up to 15 kg, provided you can lift and stow the bag yourself.
- Large overhead bag (optional): Passengers with Up Front or Extra Legroom seats, easyJet Plus members, or those who pay for the add-on can bring one large cabin bag (max. 56 × 45 × 25 cm) in the overhead locker.
- Cost & perks: Adding a large bag starts at £5.99 and includes Speedy Boarding for first access to overhead space.
Ryanair
- Small personal bag: All fares include one small bag (40 × 20 × 25 cm) that must fit under the seat in front of you at no extra cost.
- Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: For € 6–€ 15 extra (varies by route), you can add Priority & 2 Cabin Bags, which allows a second overhead bag up to 55 × 40 × 20 cm, with a 10 kg weight limit, plus Priority Boarding.
- Non-priority second bag: Without Priority, you may purchase a 10 kg check-in bag (same size 55 × 40 × 20 cm), but it must be checked in at the bag-drop desk before security.
- Enforcement: Oversized or overweight bags risk gate-check fees of € 60 or more if they exceed these strict limits.
Quick-Reference Table
| Airline | Bag Type | Dimensions (cm) | Location | Weight Limit | Cost/Condition | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| easyJet | Small under-seat bag | 45 × 36 × 20 | Under seat | Up to 15 kg | Free | easyjet.com |
| easyJet | Large overhead bag | 56 × 45 × 25 | Overhead locker | Up to 15 kg | From £5.99 (Speedy Boarding included) | easyjet.com |
| Ryanair | Small personal bag | 40 × 20 × 25 | Under seat | — (Free) | Free | help.ryanair.com |
| Ryanair | Priority cabin bag | 55 × 40 × 20 | Overhead locker | Up to 10 kg | Requires Priority & 2 Cabin Bags bundle | help.ryanair.com |
Pro Tips for Budget Flyers:
- Always measure your bag fully packed—protruding pockets and compression straps can push you over the limit.
- Carry a compact tape measure or install an AR-ruler app on your phone to double-check dimensions on the go.
- Factor in any memberships (e.g., easyJet Plus) or add-ons (Priority boarding) when comparing fees versus convenience.
- Bookmark each airline’s official policy page to stay updated on any last-minute changes before your flight.
Sortable Comparison Table
Below is a fully SEO-optimized, human-friendly, sortable comparison table of carry-on allowances for 12 major airlines—five U.S. carriers, five international full-service operators, and two budget/regional airlines. You can click the column headers to sort by Dimensions, Weight, or Region for easy packing decisions. Remember, the IATA recommends a 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 18 × 10 in) maximum cabin bag size, but individual airlines set their own rules. Always verify your carrier’s policy before you pack to avoid unexpected fees or gate-checks .
Pro tip: Bookmark this table on your phone and measure your fully packed bag (including wheels, handles and pockets) using a foldable tape or AR-ruler app to dodge those last-minute surcharges.
| Airline | Region | Dimensions (L × W × H) | Weight Allowance | Policy Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | North America | 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm) | Not specified (must fit) | aa.com |
| Delta Air Lines | North America | 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm) | Not specified (must fit) | delta.com |
| United Airlines | North America | 9 × 14 × 22 in (23 × 35 × 56 cm) | Not specified (must fit) | united.com |
| Southwest | North America | 24 × 16 × 10 in (61 × 41 × 25 cm) | Not specified (must fit) | support.southwest |
| JetBlue | North America | 22 × 14 × 9 in (55.88 × 35.56 × 22.86 cm) | Not specified (must fit) | jetblue |
| British Airways | Europe | 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 18 × 10 in) | Not specified (must fit) | britishairways |
| Lufthansa | Europe | 55 × 40 × 23 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 9 in) | 8 kg (17.6 lb) | lufthansa |
| Air France | Europe | 55 × 35 × 25 cm (21.7 × 13.8 × 9.8 in) | 12 kg (26.4 lb) | airfrance |
| Emirates | Middle East | 55 × 38 × 22 cm (21.6 × 14.9 × 8.6 in) | 7 kg (15 lb) Economy 10 kg (22 lb) PE/BE | emirates |
| Qatar Airways | Middle East | 50 × 37 × 25 cm (20 × 15 × 10 in) | 7 kg (15 lb) Economy | qatarairways |
| easyJet | Europe (Budget) | 45 × 36 × 20 cm (17.7 × 14.2 × 7.9 in) Optional 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 18 × 10 in) | 15 kg (max; must lift) | easyjet |
| Ryanair | Europe (Budget) | 40 × 20 × 25 cm (15.7 × 7.9 × 9.8 in) Priority 55 × 40 × 20 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 7.9 in) | 10 kg (Priority only) | ryanair |
Table Features
- Sortable columns: Click any header—Dimensions, Weight, or Region—to reorder entries.
- Dual units: All sizes shown in inches and centimeters for global travelers.
- Direct links: One-click access to each airline’s official baggage policy.
By using this table, frequent flyers, vacationers and budget seekers alike can instantly compare cabin allowances and pack with confidence—always measure after packing and verify your carrier’s latest rules before heading to the gate!
Visual Infographics & Quick-Reference Charts
Visual aids are essential for quick comprehension—whether your audience is browsing on desktop or tapping on a smartphone, clear infographics and charts turn complex carry-on rules into intuitive visuals. By combining silhouette diagrams with overlayed dimensions, regional breakdowns, and interactive mobile layouts, you’ll create a travel guide that’s both engaging and SEO-friendly.
Bag Silhouette Diagrams
- Outline images: Display a clean outline of a standard carry-on bag, oriented vertically, with dimension lines marking length, width, and height.
- Dual-unit overlays: Label each measurement in inches and centimeters right on the diagram—this caters to U.S. and international readers alike.
- Real-world examples: Mirror the style used by carriers such as American Airlines (22×14×9 in) and Delta (22×14×9 in) on their official baggage pages for instant familiarity.
Regional Charts: U.S. vs. Europe vs. Middle East
- Side-by-side visuals: Use bar or radar charts to compare regional standards at a glance—group North America, Europe, and the Middle East in distinct color bands.
- Key dimension call-outs: North America typically follows 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 35 × 23 cm), Europe often uses 55 × 40 × 23 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 9 in), and Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates allow 55 × 38 × 22 cm (21.6 × 14.9 × 8.6 in).
- Quick-reference table: Complement your charts with a simple table for readers who prefer structured data: RegionDimensions (cm)Dimensions (in)North America56 × 35 × 2322 × 14 × 9Europe55 × 40 × 2321.7 × 15.7 × 9Middle East55 × 38 × 2221.6 × 14.9 × 8.6
Mobile-Friendly Layouts
- Tap-to-expand details: Allow users to tap or swipe chart segments to reveal deeper info—dimensions in other units, baggage weight allowances, or direct policy links without scrolling off-screen.
- Progressive disclosure: Chunk data into collapsible sections (e.g., silhouette, regional chart, FAQ) so mobile readers stay focused and avoid information overload.
- Responsive design: Ensure charts reflow gracefully—axes adjust, labels remain legible, and touch targets stay at least 44 px for easy tapping on all devices.
By blending precise silhouette diagrams, clear regional comparisons, and interactive, mobile-optimized components, your carry-on size guide will not only rank for high-value travel queries but also deliver a seamless user experience from first click to final packing.
Weight Allowances by Airline & Class
Weight allowances for cabin baggage can vary wildly depending on your airline and class of travel. Emirates caps economy carry-ons at 7 kg, ups it to 10 kg in Premium Economy, and grants Business & First travellers two pieces of 7 kg each. Qatar Airways limits Economy bags to 7 kg (with a 10 kg uplift on Brazil routes) and allows two pieces totalling 15 kg in Business & First.
Air France sets a 12 kg combined limit in Economy & Premium cabins and 18 kg in Business & La Première. Lufthansa allows each passenger up to two carry-ons of 8 kg apiece, with the exact count of items varying by class. Most U.S. carriers (American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue) don’t publish a numeric carry-on weight limit—your bag simply must fit and you must be able to lift it into the bin. Uniquely, British Airways allows two cabin bags up to 23 kg each, making it one of the most generous policies for weight.
| Airline | Cabin Class | Weight Allowance | Pieces Allowed | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Economy | 7 kg | 1 | emirates |
| Premium Economy | 10 kg | 1 | emirates | |
| Business & First | 7 kg each; 14 kg total | 2 | emirates | |
| Qatar Airways | Economy | 7 kg (10 kg from Brazil) | 1 | qatarairways |
| Business & First | 15 kg total | 2 | qatarairways | |
| Air France | Economy & Premium | 12 kg total | 1–2 + small bag | airfrance |
| Business & La Première | 18 kg total | 2 + small bag | airfrance | |
| Lufthansa | All Classes | 8 kg per item | 1–2 (class-dependent) | lufthansa |
| U.S. Carriers | All Classes | No published limit – must fit | 1 + personal item | delta |
| British Airways | All Classes | 23 kg per bag | 2 | thetimes |
Infant Allowances
- British Airways lets lap-infants bring a baby bag up to 5 kg (45 × 35 × 20 cm) in addition to your cabin allowance; children with their own seats get the standard adult carry-on (40 × 25 × 20 cm).
- Emirates permits one carry-cot or fully collapsible stroller in the cabin if space allows; otherwise it’s checked free of charge.
- Delta Air Lines offers bassinets (SkyCots) for infants up to 20 lbs/9 kg and accommodates essential baby items (diaper bags, car seats) under special baggage rules.
- Air France includes children’s accessories (strollers*, car seats, diaper bags) as extra cabin items; if there’s no room, they’re stowed in the hold at no charge.
Special-Needs Considerations
- Under U.S. Department of Transportation rules, airlines must assist passengers with disabilities, including helping carry or gate-check their carry-on if they cannot stow it themselves.
- Delta Air Lines explicitly covers medical supplies, wheelchairs, and mobility devices as special items, ensuring they travel with you in cabin or are gate-checked at no extra fee.
By understanding these weight nuances—especially class-based exceptions and extra allowances for infants and passengers with disabilities—you can pack smarter, avoid surprise fees, and travel with confidence.
Consequences of Oversized Carry-Ons
Here’s a concise expert breakdown of what happens if your bag doesn’t meet carry-on requirements:
- Gate-check fees can range from completely free (for standard‐sized bags) to as much as $200 per item when your bag exceeds dimensional limits.
- Fines in the U.K. can reach up to £48 if you neglect to include wheels or handles in your measurements, with some budget carriers charging even £70 for oversized personal bags.
- Delayed boarding is nearly guaranteed: airlines will gate-check your bag at the jet bridge, you’ll board last, and you may wait extra time both to board and then again at baggage claim.
Gate-Check Fees
Most legacy carriers will gate-check properly sized carry-ons free of charge, but once a bag exceeds size limits, you’re hit with standard checked-bag fees plus a gate-handling surcharge:
| Airline | When You’re Charged | Fee Structure | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Bag too large for overhead bin | Free gate-check for compliant bags; oversized charged as checked bag (no extra handling fee) | aa.com |
| Delta Air Lines | Bag doesn’t fit or on crowded flights | Free gate-check for compliant bags; oversized treated as checked bag (no handling fee) | delta |
| United Airlines | Bring carry-on to gate (oversized or extra) | Pay checked-bag fee + $25 gate-handling charge | nerdwallet |
| Frontier Airlines | Exceeds size limits at boarding | $99 when paid at the gate (vs. $57–$74 in advance) | pirg.org |
| Southwest Airlines | Oversized items (over 62″ but ≤ 80″ linear size) | $200 per item + standard baggage fee | southwest |
Fines for Unmeasured Protrusions
In the U.K., failing to include wheels, handles or external pockets in your measurements can trigger steep penalties:
| Carrier | Offense | Fine | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| easyJet, Jet2, TUI, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic | Luggage “within” stated dimensions but excludes wheels/handles | Up to £48 | thesun.co.uk |
| Ryanair | Oversized personal bag (under-seat allowance only) | £70 | thesun.co.uk |
Delayed Boarding
When overhead bins fill up or your bag is oversized, airlines will gate-check your carry-on—meaning:
- You board last, after all other passengers have stowed bags and taken seats.
- Gate-checked bags may arrive at a jet bridge or the baggage carousel, adding unpredictable wait times—one family reported an extra hour delay retrieving their bags.
- Even on full flights, low-priority or oversized bags are always among the last items off the plane.
By understanding these fees, fines, and boarding impacts, you can confidently measure—and if necessary, downsize—your bag to avoid unexpected charges, penalties, and travel delays. Always double-check your airline’s latest policy before you pack!
Tips for Accurate Measurement & Packing
Here’s a practical, expert-backed rundown of three fool-proof strategies to measure and pack your carry-on like a pro—so you dodge surprises at the gate and sail through security:
- Scan before you pack: Use an AR luggage sizer (like the easyJet “Cabin Bag Sizer” in their app) to verify your bag’s dimensions at home.
- Pack smart with cubes: Stash heavy items low, then group and compress clothes in packing cubes—Amazon’s top-selling Bagail set frees up measurable space and keeps you organized.
- Weigh it yourself: Strap a kitchen or digital luggage scale to your handle, lift steadily for 5–10 seconds, and get an accurate home-grown weight reading—no more “overweight” gate fees.
Use a Luggage Sizer or AR Scanner
Augmented reality tools let you “try on” your bag virtually against airline limits before you even leave the house. easyJet’s Cabin Bag Sizer uses your phone’s camera to overlay a 3D box—if your bag fits, you’re good; if not, you’ll know long before the airport. Other carriers are rolling out similar features, making it easy to scan and adjust on the go.
Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom & Compress with Packing Cubes
- Heavy at the base: Shoes, toiletry kits, and electronics go in the bottom—this balances weight and prevents your bag from tipping over when standing upright.
- Compression cubes: Sets like Bagail’s (over 5,000 recent Amazon purchases) can reduce bulk by up to 30% while keeping everything neatly separated. According to The Points Guy, cubes help maintain wrinkle-free clothes and make it easy to unpack just what you need.
Weigh at Home with a Kitchen or Digital Luggage Scale
Even the most careful measurement can’t catch weight overages—so do this last check:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Zero your digital or kitchen scale |
| 2 | Secure the scale’s strap or hook to a sturdy bag handle |
| 3 | Lift the bag steadily for 5–10 seconds, keeping it as still as possible |
| 4 | Read the locked-in weight on your scale |
Why it works: Calibrating at home catches hidden extras—souvenirs, last-minute toiletries—so you can repack proactively rather than pay up to $100 in gate-check fees.
Pro Tip: Combine all three—scan your bag, pack with cubes, then weigh it—to cover every angle and travel stress-free. Bookmark this guide and turn these simple steps into your travel routine!
Conclusion
After absorbing the ins and outs of 2025 carry-on rules, you’re armed to travel smarter, faster, and fee-free. First, measure each dimension—including protruding pockets, wheels, and handles—against your airline’s published limits. Next, choose the right tool: a physical luggage gauge, a metal tape measure, or a handy AR scanner in easyJet’s app.
Then, pack strategically, placing heavy items low and compressing clothes with high-quality packing cubes to maximize space. Weigh your bag at home with a digital scale to catch those last-minute souvenirs before they trigger gate-check fees up to $100. Remember that IATA’s 56 × 45 × 25 cm guideline is voluntary—airlines from American to Emirates may impose their own class-based or regional restrictions.
Budget flyers on Ryanair or easyJet should note the stricter under-seat dimensions, while those flying premium cabins often enjoy extra weight or bag-count perks. Finally, stay informed: bookmark official policy pages and verify before each journey. Follow these steps, and you’ll glide through boarding with confidence—no fines, no frayed nerves, just smooth take-off.
FAQs
Can I bring both a carry-on and a personal item?
Most airlines (American, Delta, United) allow one carry-on plus one personal item (purse, laptop bag) free of charge .
Do weight limits apply to U.S. carriers?
U.S. airlines rarely publish numeric carry-on weight limits; your bag simply must fit overhead and you must stow it yourself.
What happens if my bag is oversized?
Expect gate-check fees from $25 up to $100 and delayed boarding—last on, last off.
Are handles and wheels included in measurements?
Always—failing to include them can incur fines up to £48 in the U.K.
How do I measure expandable or zip-out sections?
Measure fully expanded; airlines count any protrusion, even if tucked away during travel.
