Traveling light can be a game changer. Skipping checked luggage saves time, reduces costs, and eliminates the risk of lost baggage. But with airlines having different rules for carry-on sizes and weight limits, what works for one flight might not work for another. To help you avoid surprise fees or gate-checking your bag, we’ve created this all-in-one carry-on luggage size guide by airline, including domestic and international carriers.
📏 What Is a Carry-On?
A carry-on is a bag that fits into the overhead bin on an airplane. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). But each airline has its own size and weight rules, and exceeding them can lead to extra charges or needing to check your bag.
✈️ Carry-On Luggage Size Limits by Major Airlines
Here’s a breakdown of size and weight restrictions for popular airlines. Note that size includes wheels and handles!
🔹 United States Airlines
| Airline | Max Size (inches) | Weight Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No weight limit | Plus one personal item |
| Delta Air Lines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No weight limit | Gate agents may check size |
| United Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No weight limit | Basic Economy may not allow carry-on |
| Southwest Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | No weight limit | Generous size allowance |
| JetBlue | 22 x 14 x 9 | No weight limit | Blue Basic fare excludes carry-on |
| Alaska Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No weight limit | Checked at gate if oversized |
| Spirit Airlines | 22 x 18 x 10 | No weight limit | Fees apply for carry-ons |
| Frontier Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | 35 lbs | Strictly enforced |
🌍 International Airlines
| Airline | Max Size (inches) | Weight Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 22 lbs (10 kg) | Plus one personal item |
| British Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 51 lbs (23 kg) | Includes laptop bag or handbag |
| Lufthansa | 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 | 17.6 lbs (8 kg) | Business class allows 2 bags |
| Air France | 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 | 26 lbs (12 kg) | Combined with personal item |
| Qatar Airways | 20 x 15 x 10 | 15 lbs (7 kg) | Strict on economy class |
| Emirates | 22 x 15 x 8 | 15 lbs (7 kg) | Business/First: 2 pieces allowed |
| Singapore Airlines | 22 x 15 x 9 | 15 lbs (7 kg) | Economy: 1 piece; Business: 2 |
| ANA | 22 x 16 x 10 | 22 lbs (10 kg) | Japan-based strict enforcement |
| Turkish Airlines | 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 | 17.6 lbs (8 kg) | May allow 2 items on some routes |
🎒 Personal Item Size Limits
Most airlines also allow a personal item, which must fit under the seat in front of you. Common size limits are around 18 x 14 x 8 inches, though this can vary slightly.
Examples of personal items include:
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Laptop bags
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Purses
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Small backpacks
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Camera bags
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Diaper bags
Tip: Be cautious with duffel bags and oversized backpacks. Even if soft, if they don’t fit under the seat, they might be rejected as a personal item.
🧳 Carry-On vs. Cabin Bag vs. Hand Luggage
These terms are often used interchangeably, but here’s a quick clarification:
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Carry-on / Cabin Bag: Goes in the overhead bin.
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Personal Item / Handbag: Goes under the seat.
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Hand Luggage: A broader term used more in Europe and Asia to refer to both items combined.
🧠 Expert Tips to Avoid Carry-On Surprises
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Measure your bag (including wheels and handles) before heading to the airport.
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Weigh it if the airline has a weight limit—especially on international flights.
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Check your ticket class: Basic economy may restrict carry-on privileges.
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Use a soft-sided bag for more flexibility in fitting tight spaces.
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Pack essentials in your personal item in case the airline asks you to gate-check your carry-on.
🧳 Best Carry-On Size to Play It Safe
If you want a carry-on that works across most airlines, aim for these dimensions: 21 x 13 x 9 inches, under 15-17 lbs. This will cover most domestic and international restrictions (except budget airlines).
✈️ Summary: Plan Smart, Pack Smarter
Carry-on rules can vary dramatically between airlines and even routes. Being aware of size and weight limits can save you time, money, and stress. Bookmark this guide, check with your airline before each trip, and invest in a well-sized, lightweight suitcase.
