As a seasoned travel expert, I’ve found that mastering carry-on size limits is essential to sidestep last-minute gate-checks—and the potential surge fees that can throw off your travel budget—since most U.S. airlines enforce a standard 22 × 14 × 9-inch limit, including handles and wheels.
Yet don’t assume one-size-fits-all: carriers like Frontier and Southwest sometimes extend their max dimensions to 25 × 16 × 10 inches, introducing useful wiggle room.
On top of that, fare-specific rules—such as Air Canada’s new Basic Economy tickets booked after January 3, 2025, no longer including full-size carry-ons—add another layer of complexity.
Understanding these wide variations across airlines and fare classes is the first step to packing strategically, breezing through security, and avoiding unwelcome surprises at the gate.
What You Need to Get Started
Essential Carry-On Rules You Must Know (Airlines Aren’t Sharing!)
Know the Airline’s Rules
Are You Sure Your Bag Will Fit?Research each airline’s carry-on size regulations. Every airline has different rules for carry-on baggage. Some, like Southwest, allow larger dimensions, while others, like Ryanair, impose strict limits.
Discover size limits and weight restrictions. Check the airline’s official website or customer service for the most accurate information. For example, American Airlines limits carry-ons to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. Conversely, easyJet may restrict you to only one small bag with dimensions up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm.
Familiarize yourself with additional fees. Some low-cost airlines may charge for any bag that exceeds the carry-on size limits. For instance, traveling with an oversized bag on Spirit Airlines can incur costly fees.
Keep a checklist handy. Create a list of the rules for each airline you plan to fly with. This ensures you won’t be caught off guard at the airport. Remember, being informed saves time and money, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels!
Measure Your Bag Correctly
Is Your Bag Ready for Takeoff?Grab your measuring tape! Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of your bag to ensure it aligns with airline specifications.
Follow these steps for accuracy:
- Height: Stand your bag upright on a level surface. Measure from the base to the highest point, including any wheels or handles.
- Width: Lay your bag flat. Measure across the widest part, which is usually along the side or the front when laid down.
- Depth: While still flat, measure from the back to the front. This helps you gauge how thick your bag is.
Remember the dimensions! For example, if your bag measures 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches, it fits snugly within the carry-on limits of most airlines.
Double-check with items inside. Load your carry-on with the essentials you plan to take to ensure it still complies with size restrictions. This way, you can visualize how your packed bag will fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat.
Be thorough! Accurate measurements today mean no unpleasant surprises at the airport tomorrow!
Consider Your Travel Needs
What’s Inside Matters Too!Evaluate what you’ll pack. Think about essential items such as your laptop, clothing changes, toiletries, and perhaps some gifts. This inventory helps determine the space you truly need in your carry-on.
Categorize your items. Create a list and consider the following:
Think practically. For example, if you’re heading for a business trip, your carry-on should prioritize formal attire and professional essentials. Conversely, a weekend getaway might focus on casual clothing and a book or two.
Adjust based on your itinerary. Different destinations may require different items, so tailor your packing list accordingly.
Understanding your essentials empowers you to select a carry-on that fits your travel philosophy and ensures you’re well-prepared for any adventure!
Prioritize Flexibility and Functionality
Can Your Bag Do It All?Choose a carry-on that offers versatility. When selecting your bag, look for features that enhance your travel experience beyond mere size compliance.
Explore expandability options. Consider a bag with zippers that allow you to increase its volume when needed—ideal for those times when you want to bring back souvenirs or unexpected purchases.
Check for pockets and compartments. A well-organized bag can save you time and hassle during security checks. Look for:
Prioritize ease of transport. A well-designed handle and comfortable shoulder straps are crucial, especially if you need to navigate crowded airports or train stations. Choose a bag that rolls smoothly or can be carried with ease.
Imagine this scenario: You’re in a busy airport, and your flight is boarding soon. Having a backpack with accessible pockets makes grabbing your boarding pass effortless, while a rolling suitcase smoothly glides alongside you, leaving your hands free to grab a quick coffee.
Opt for functional materials, too. Durable fabrics and water-resistant designs keep your belongings safe and secure, no matter where your travels take you.
Test and Adapt Your Choices
Is Your Bag a Travel Companion or a Burden?Conduct a trial packing session. Before your journey begins, take the time to pack your carry-on bag just as you plan to for your trip. This practice run helps you evaluate how well your bag meets your needs.
Assess the ease of packing. Start by placing your essentials in the bag. Consider how everything fits:
Adjust as necessary. Maybe your toiletries need a dedicated case, or your clothes could be rolled instead of folded.
Use real-world scenarios. Imagine you need to grab your laptop amid the chaos of boarding. How quickly can you access it? If it’s buried deep, consider rearranging.
Reflect on your comfort. Is the bag heavy when packed? If so, rethink the amount of clothing or accessories you plan to bring.
By testing and adapting, you’ll ensure your carry-on is tailored perfectly to your travel style and needs!
Fundamentals of Carry-On Sizing
In this section, we’ll break down the core elements of carry-on sizing—defining what separates a true carry-on bag from a personal item, mastering precise measurement techniques that include wheels and handles, and decoding when airlines use a linear-inch total versus strict individual dimension caps—to ensure your “packing recipe” is spot-on and fee-free. We’ll use official airline policies and expert packing guides to walk you through each step with clarity and confidence.
By the end, you’ll understand how to measure accurately and know exactly which metric—linear inches or individual dimensions—matters most for every carrier.
Defining Carry-On vs. Personal Item
A carry-on is any bag that stows in the overhead bin, while a personal item—like a purse, backpack, or laptop case—must fit under the seat in front of you.
Below is a quick “mise en place” of how major U.S. carriers define each:
| Airline | Carry-On Definition | Personal Item Definition |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | One bag no larger than 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (wheels & handles included) | One item no larger than 18″ × 14″ × 8″, must fit under the seat |
| Delta Air Lines | One bag up to 22″ × 14″ × 9″ or 45 linear inches (includes wheels/handles) | One small under-seat bag; no published dimensions |
| United Airlines | One bag no larger than 22″ × 14″ × 9″ (wheels & handles included) | One item ≤ 17″ × 10″ × 9″, must fit under the seat |
| Southwest Airlines | One bag stowable in overhead bin up to 24″ × 16″ × 10″ | One small personal item that fits under the seat; dimensions not published |
Measurement Techniques
Just as you’d measure ingredients for a soufflé, accurate luggage measurements require precision:
- Height: Stand the bag upright on a level surface and measure from the floor to the topmost point—wheels, casters, and fixed handles included.
- Width: Measure the widest point across the body of the suitcase, accounting for side pockets, buckles, and protrusions.
- Depth: Measure from the front face of the bag to the back, including any compression straps or gussets.
Pro Tip: Retract telescoping handles and stow hanging tags before measuring—airlines expect the handle slid down in the gate-sizer.
C. Linear Inches vs. Individual Dimensions
Think of linear inches as the total weight of your recipe’s ingredients, versus individual dimensions as each ingredient’s standalone measure:
- Linear inches: Sum of length + width + height. For example, a 22″ × 14″ × 9″ bag equals 45 linear inches. Some airlines, like Delta, specify only the linear-inch cap.
- Individual dimensions: Strict caps on each measurement, such as America’s 22″ × 14″ × 9″ rule. If any single dimension exceeds the cap, the bag is oversized, even if total linear inches are under the limit.
Always verify both metrics: a bag under each individual cap but over the linear-inch total (or vice versa) may still incur fees or require gate-checking.
Airline-Specific Size Limits
Here’s a detailed breakdown of airline-specific carry-on size limits—your “ingredient list” for compliant packing—with insights on U.S. carriers, Basic Economy quirks, and major international rules. Use these tables to whisk together the perfect carry-on strategy for any flight.
U.S. Carriers
| Airline | Carry-On Dimensions | Personal Item | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 × 14 × 9 in (incl. wheels & handles) | 18 × 14 × 8 in, under-seat | Must fit under the seat |
| Delta Air Lines | Up to 22 × 14 × 9 in or 45 linear inches (incl. wheels & handles) | Small bag fitting under seat | Exceptions for infant-in-arms and pets |
| United Airlines | 22 × 14 × 9 in | ≤ 17 × 10 × 9 in, under-seat | Must fit in the gate sizer |
| Southwest | 24 × 16 × 10 in | Must fit under seat | 50 linear inches including handles |
| Alaska Airlines | 22 × 14 × 9 in | Must fit under seat | Strictly enforced in gate sizers |
| JetBlue | 22 × 14 × 9 in | 17 × 13 × 8 in, under-seat | No weight limit; fits overhead |
Basic Economy and Fare Exceptions
- American Airlines Basic Economy still includes 1 carry-on + 1 personal item, identical to Main Cabin.
- Delta Main Basic (formerly Basic Economy) permits 1 carry-on + 1 personal item, matching Main Cabin privileges.
- United Basic Economy on most domestic routes allows only 1 personal item (no overhead bin carry-on), except on select international flights to/from South America or across the Atlantic/Pacific.
- Southwest Airlines does not have a Basic Economy tier; all fare types include 1 carry-on + 1 personal item fee-free.
International Carriers
| Airline | Carry-On Dimensions | Weight Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 × 20 × 25 cm (personal); 55 × 40 × 20 cm (Priority) | Personal bag only; Priority bag ≤ 10 kg | Standard fare includes one small bag; Priority & 2-cabins adds a 10 kg overhead bag |
| Lufthansa | 55 × 40 × 23 cm | 1 × 8 kg (Eco/PE); 2 × 8 kg (Biz/First) | Checked at departure; gate fees for non-compliance |
| Air Canada | 55 × 40 × 23 cm (21.5 × 15 × 9 in) | No strict limit; must be liftable | Wheels & handles included; personal item 33 × 16 × 43 cm |
| British Airways | 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 18 × 10 in) | Up to 23 kg per bag | Plus 1 handbag/backpack 40 × 30 × 15 cm; may be gate-checked |
| Emirates | 55 × 38 × 22 cm (21.6 × 14.9 × 8.6 in) | 7 kg (Eco & First); 10 kg (PE) | Plus briefcase 45 × 35 × 20 cm; infant equipment exceptions |
With these “recipes” in hand, you can pack the perfect carry-on that meets the strictest standards, avoid gate checks, and breeze through security—no surprises, just seamless travel.
Selecting a “Universal” Carry-On
Selecting the right “universal” carry-on is like choosing the perfect base recipe—you want one set of dimensions and features that works across every airline, plus a pinch of flexibility and awareness of weight limits to avoid unexpected fees.
By standardizing on the strictest common standard (22 × 14 × 9 inches or 45 linear inches), you guarantee overhead-bin compliance on U.S. and most international carriers.
Adding expandable panels and adjustable handles gives you extra packing room—models like Amazon Basics’ Expandable Hardside gain 15% more volume, while Away’s Bigger Carry-On Flex adds 2.25 inches of depth.
Finally, don’t forget weight caps—Hawaiian Airlines enforces a firm 25 lb (11 kg) limit on carry-ons, so a light but sturdy spinner is key.
Choosing the Strictest Standard
To cover the majority of airlines with a single bag:
- American Airlines: 22 × 14 × 9 inches including wheels and handles
- Delta Air Lines: Up to 22 × 14 × 9 inches or 45 linear inches total, including hardware
- United Airlines: 22 × 14 × 9 inches including wheels and handles
These dimensions align with IATA’s general guidance that carry-ons should not exceed 22 × 18 × 10 inches (56 × 45 × 25 cm) or about 45 linear inches.
Expandable Features & Adjustable Designs
Like a well-designed kitchen tool, the best carry-ons offer “give” when you need it and lock back down when space is tight:
| Feature | Benefit | Example & Source |
|---|---|---|
| Expandable Zippers (+2 inches) | Boosts depth by up to 15%, ideal for souvenirs or extra layers. | Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside 21″ Spinner: 34 L → 39 L (+15%) |
| Zipper-Activated Expansion Panel (+2.25 inches) | Adds targeted depth for bulky items without over-packing. | Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex: 2.25″ extra space |
| Expandable Zipper (up to 25% more space) | Provides flexible packing volume for last-minute extras. | TPG Picks: nets up to 25% more space |
| Telescoping Multi-Stop Handles | Locks at multiple heights for ergonomic rolling and easy transition between hands. | Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On Spinner |
Weight Limits to Remember
Dimensions aren’t the only limits—weight caps vary, and ignoring them can turn your carry-on into a checked bag (and a surprise fee):
| Airline | Max Carry-On Weight | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Airlines | 25 lb (11 kg) | Rule 17: Domestic Contract of Carriage |
| Lufthansa (Economy/PE) | 8 kg (17.6 lb) | Carry-On Baggage Rules at Lufthansa |
By combining strict standard sizing with expandable capacity and mindful weight choices, you’ll create a carry-on “recipe” that satisfies every airline’s requirements—no gate checks or extra fees.
Verification and Packing Strategies
Before you hit the road, treating your carry-on like a prized soufflé means verifying every dimension and ounce to avoid last-minute gate surprises.
Pre-flight checks with a home tape measure and airport baggage sizer ensure your bag meets strict limits, while a handheld luggage scale keeps overweight fees at bay—fees that can reach $100–$200 per bag.
Finally, packing cubes and compression bags are your mise en place for maximizing space, shrinking bulky items by up to 60% so you can fit more in your 22 × 14 × 9-inch shell.
Pre-Flight Measurement Checks
- Home Tape-Measure Test: Place your luggage upright on a flat surface and use a flexible tape measure to record height, width, and depth—including wheels, handles, and any protrusions—to exactly match airline requirements.
- Airport Gate-Sizer Trial: Arrive early and slip your bag into the airport’s free baggage sizer (usually found at check-in or boarding gates) to confirm fit. If it won’t slide in, you’ve got time to redistribute or downsize.
Weighing Your Packed Bag
- Handheld Luggage Scales: Invest in a digital scale (e.g., Travel Inspira or Dr. Meter) for accuracy to 0.1 lb—hook it onto your carry-on and lift to get an instant readout.
- Avoid Overweight Fees: Many airlines charge $100 for bags weighing 51–70 lb and up to $200 for 71–100 lb at the gate. Pre-weighing saves you from these surprise costs.
Packing Optimization
| Tool | Space Saved | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Compression Packing Cubes (dual-zip) | Up to 60% | Compress bulky items—sweaters, jeans—into slim cubes |
| Vacuum-Compression Packing Bags | Up to 60% | Vacuum out air for maximum volume gain |
| Standard Packing Cubes | 20–40% | Organize outfits into sections for faster packing |
- Layered “Bake” Method: Pack heavier items (e.g., shoes, toiletries) at the bottom, then layer packing cubes of rolled or folded clothing on top—this “layer cake” approach streamlines retrieval.
- Maximize Corners and Gaps: Fill seams and corners with socks, chargers, or belts to eliminate wasted air pockets—think of it as whisking every last bit of air out of a batter.
By verifying dimensions and weight ahead of time and using smart compression tools, your carry-on will sail effortlessly through airline checks—no gate-check garnish required.
Monitoring Policy Changes and Resources
Here’s how to stay on top of every carry-on rule change—whether airlines tweak dimensions, fees, or weight caps—by subscribing to official alerts and top travel-blog newsletters, and keeping quick-reference policy pages at your fingertips.
Subscribing to Airline Policy Updates
Airlines routinely adjust baggage allowances in response to operational needs or competitive pressures—major U.S. carriers collected over $33 billion in baggage fees in 2024 alone, prompting frequent policy reviews.
To ensure you’re immediately notified of any dimension tweaks, fee adjustments, or expanded carry-on waivers, subscribe directly through each carrier’s update channel:
| Airline | How to Subscribe to Policy Updates |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | Newsroom Email Alerts or enable “BeNotified” in your AAdvantage® profile |
| Delta Air Lines | Sign up for the Delta News Hub Email Updates |
| United Airlines | Follow United’s official announcements on X (@United) |
| Southwest Airlines | Subscribe to “Latest Deals” via the Southwest Community page’s email signup at the bottom of any newsroom/blog post |
| Alaska Airlines | Get the latest news, tips, and press releases by signing up at news.alaskaair.com/signup |
| JetBlue Airways | Opt in for JetBlue Newsroom Email Alerts |
Official Baggage Policy Reference Links
Keep these pages bookmarked for on-the-fly verification of dimension caps, linear-inch rules, and personal-item guidelines:
| Airline | Policy Page |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | Baggage Policy & Fees |
| Delta Air Lines | Carry-On Baggage Guide |
| United Airlines | Equipaje de mano (ES) |
| Southwest Airlines | Carry-On Baggage Policy |
| Alaska Airlines | Carry-On Luggage Size Limit |
| JetBlue Airways | Carry-On & Personal Item Rules |
By combining airline newsletters, authoritative travel-blog digests, and bookmarked policy pages, you’ll always travel with confidence—no last-minute gate-checks or surprise fees.
Conclusion
As we’ve covered, precise measuring, airline-specific sizing insights, and optimized packing tactics are the cornerstone steps to a fee-free carry-on experience across carriers.
For a handy, downloadable quick-reference chart of every major airline’s carry-on limits, visit The Points Guy’s “Airline Carry-On Luggage Size” guide and grab their PDF sheet.
To stay ahead of policy shifts, sign up for The Points Guy Daily newsletter to receive instant email alerts on any dimension or fee changes. And don’t forget to check expert resources like NerdWallet’s up-to-date TSA carry-on rules to catch new restrictions before you pack.
FAQs
What’s the difference between linear inches and individual dimensions?
Linear inches sum length + width + height; individual dimensions cap each side separately, and you must satisfy both on many airlines.
Can I use an expandable carry-on on strict airlines?
Yes—just zip it down to 22 × 14 × 9 inches before boarding to comply with stricter caps.
Are weight limits enforced at the gate?
Some carriers—like Hawaiian Airlines—strictly enforce a 25 lb max; others check only oversized bags, so always weigh in advance.
Do Basic Economy fares allow full-size carry-ons?
American and Delta Basic Economy include standard carry-ons; United Basic Economy restricts you to a personal item on most routes.
How can I stay updated on sudden policy changes?
Subscribe to airline newsletters (e.g., AA, Delta) and travel blogs like SmarterTravel to get instant alerts
Main Tips
- Always include wheels & handles when measuring
- Zip down expandables before boarding
- Weigh the packed bag to 0.1 lb accuracy
- Use packing cubes to save up to 60% volume
- Subscribe to the airline & SmarterTravel newsletters
This guide is super helpful! I always get confused about what size carry-on I can take. I never thought I had to measure my bag 🤦♀️. Thanks for the tip! Anyone have suggestions on what to pack for a week-long trip?
Definitely pack versatile clothing! You can mix and match outfits to save space. I usually roll my clothes to fit more in! 😊
Glad you found it helpful, Amy! For a week-long trip, consider packing travel-sized toiletries to save space too!
I wish airlines would just agree on one size for carry-ons. It’s so annoying trying to figure out if my bag will fit. This article is a good start though, thanks!
Totally understand, Liam! It can be a headache, but knowing the rules can help avoid surprises at the airport.
Right?! I feel like every airline has its own rules. 🙄 Once I had to check my bag because it was 1 inch too big. So frustrating!
Okay, but can we talk about flexibility? I have a hard time packing light. Is it really possible to fit everything into a carry-on?
It can be challenging, Chris! But with the right techniques like packing cubes, it’s totally doable! You just have to prioritize.
For sure! I once managed to pack for a 10-day trip in a carry-on by planning outfits with layers!
Great tips, but I feel like testing my bag would be awkward in a store. 😂 Still, I guess it’s better than getting to the airport and being turned away. Anyone else feel this way?
Haha, yes! I’ve done a mock packing at home before. Just to see if it fits! 😂
The measuring tip is golden! 🙌 I bought this cute bag online, but I should’ve checked the dimensions first. Now I’m stuck carrying a huge backpack. Do you think it’s worth it to buy a new one?
Agreed! I got a pretty decent one on sale recently, and it has made my travel life so much easier.
If you travel a lot, it might be worth investing in a proper carry-on! Just make sure to check the size limits before you purchase.