Carry-On Luggage Size: What’s Allowed on U.S. Airlines

Key Highlights

• The standard carry-on luggage size for most major U.S. airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• You are typically allowed one carry-on suitcase for the overhead bin and one personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.
• Airlines like Southwest have more generous size restrictions, allowing for larger bags.
• Always measure your bag including wheels and handles to ensure it complies with airline rules.
• While domestic carriers rarely enforce them, many international airlines have strict weight restrictions for carry-on bags.

Introduction

Have you ever felt a wave of anxiety at the check-in counter, hoping your carry-on suitcase isn’t a hair too big? We’ve all been there. Navigating airline baggage rules can be confusing, and the last thing you want is an unexpected fee or the hassle of gate-checking your bag. Understanding the specific carry-on size and weight limits before you pack can save you time, money, and stress, ensuring your bag fits perfectly in the overhead bin.

Standard Carry-On Luggage Sizes and Regulations

When it comes to carry-on bags, most U.S. airlines have adopted a standard set of size restrictions to ensure fairness and manage limited overhead bin space. These rules are generally based on the total dimensions of your suitcase, often expressed in linear inches—the sum of the bag’s length, width, and height.

Knowing these standard dimensions is your first step to a smoother boarding process. If your bag is too large, it may not fit in the sizing bins at the gate or, more importantly, the aircraft’s overhead compartments. Let’s look at the typical measurements and how policies have been evolving.

Typical Dimensions Permitted by U.S. Airlines

For most domestic flights within the United States, there’s a set of “magic numbers” that will generally keep your luggage in compliance. Sticking to these measurements ensures your bag will be accepted on carriers like American, Delta, and United.

What is the standard carry-on luggage size allowed by most airlines? The most widely accepted dimensions are:

• Length: 22 inches (56 cm)
• Width: 14 inches (36 cm)
• Height: 9 inches (23 cm)

When you add these numbers together, they equal 45 linear inches, another common way airlines express their size limits. It is crucial to remember that these dimensions are for the entire suitcase, not just the packing compartment.

Recent Updates in Carry-On Size Policies

Have you wondered if the standard carry-on luggage size has changed for 2025? While the 22 x 14 x 9-inch standard remains prevalent, the airline industry is always in flux. In recent years, many major carriers have standardized these dimensions, reducing them from previously larger allowances to manage limited overhead bin space on increasingly full flights.

This trend means airlines are enforcing size restrictions more consistently than ever before. However, some carriers are bucking the trend. Allegiant Airlines, for example, recently increased its carry-on size limits.

Because policies can and do change, it’s always a smart move to double-check your specific airline’s website before you travel. This is especially true for international flights, which often have stricter weight restrictions in addition to size limits.

Major U.S. Airlines and Their Specific Carry-On Size Limits

While the 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule is a great guideline, it’s not universal. How do carry-on luggage size limits differ between major US airlines? Some carriers, particularly Southwest, offer more generous allowances, while others stick firmly to the standard. The weight limit is another factor, though it’s less frequently enforced on domestic routes.

Before you head to the airport, it’s essential to know the specific policy for the airline you’re flying. A suitcase that’s perfectly fine for one carrier might be too large for another. Here’s a closer look at the rules for some of the biggest names in air travel.

American Airlines Carry-On Bag Restrictions

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you’ll need to adhere to the industry standard. What are the carry-on bag size restrictions for American Airlines? Your main carry-on bag must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. These dimensions line up with other major carriers like United and Delta, making it easier to use the same luggage across different airlines.

In addition to your main carry-on, you can bring one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, with maximum dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. This item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Remember, the TSA is responsible for security screening, not enforcing these size rules—that’s the airline’s job at the gate. If your bag is too large, you will likely be required to check it.

United Airlines Maximum Carry-On Size

Similar to its main competitors, United Airlines has a clear policy for carry-on bags. What is the maximum carry-on luggage size for United Airlines? Your suitcase can be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. This size ensures it will fit in the overhead bins on most of their aircraft.

For your personal item, the dimensions are a bit different: 17 inches in length, 10 inches in width, and 9 inches in height. This item, which could be a briefcase or small backpack, must be stowed under the seat in front of you.

Sticking to these measurements is the best way to avoid any last-minute issues at the gate. Overstuffed bags or those that are slightly too large may be flagged by gate agents and required to be checked.

Delta Air Lines and Other Popular Carriers: Size Comparison

When comparing airlines, you’ll find that Delta Air Lines aligns with United on carry-on suitcase sizes, but how does it stack up against other popular carriers like Southwest? Understanding these differences can help you choose the right luggage and even the right airline for your needs. What is the carry-on baggage size policy for Delta Air Lines? It follows the common 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule.

Here is a quick comparison of the carry-on and personal item size limits for several major U.S. airlines.

Airline	Carry-On Size Limit	Personal Item Size
American Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	18″ x 14″ x 8″
Delta Air Lines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	Approx. 18″ x 14″ x 8″
United Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	17″ x 10″ x 9″
Southwest Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″	18.5″ x 13.5″ x 8.5″

Delta’s Carry-On Bag Policy Explained

Delta Air Lines makes its carry-on policy straightforward for travelers. Your primary carry-on suitcase must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This size is designed to fit in the overhead bin space on their flights. Alongside your main bag, you are permitted one personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or another similarly sized article that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.

What is the carry-on baggage size policy for Delta Air Lines? It’s important to note that passengers on some Delta Connection flights with 50 seats or fewer may have different rules. Due to limited overhead space on these smaller aircraft, larger carry-on bags might be gate-checked free of charge.

These gate-checked bags are tagged and returned to you on the jet bridge upon arrival. Always keep valuables and essential items like medication in your personal item, just in case your larger bag needs to be checked.

Southwest Airlines vs. Other Major U.S. Airlines

Does Southwest Airlines allow larger carry-on bags compared to other airlines? Yes, it does, and the difference is significant. Southwest has one of the most generous carry-on policies among major U.S. carriers, allowing a suitcase up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. This gives you approximately 30% more packing space compared to the standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch limit.

This larger allowance is a major perk for travelers who prefer to avoid checking bags. Your bag, whether it’s a rolling suitcase or a large backpack, still needs to fit in the overhead bin.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Southwest Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches
• American, Delta, United: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Result: Southwest offers more flexibility for larger bags.

Even with the larger allowance, you can also bring a personal item, like a small backpack or purse, that fits under the seat in front of you.

How to Measure Your Carry-On – Tips for Travelers

To avoid any unwelcome surprises at the airport, it’s crucial to measure your suitcase correctly. How do I measure my carry-on bag to make sure it fits airline requirements? You can’t just guess or rely on the manufacturer’s tag. You’ll need a tape measure to check the length, width, and height.

Some airlines also refer to a total size in linear inches, which is simply the sum of these three measurements. Whether your bag is a hard-shell suitcase or a soft-sided duffel, taking a few minutes to measure it can make all the difference. An item of similar size, like a box, can be measured for practice. You can also convert the measurements to cm to compare with international standards.

Exterior Dimensions vs. Interior Packing Space

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is measuring only the main compartment of their luggage. Airlines, however, measure the total exterior dimensions. This means you must include everything that protrudes from the bag.

How do I measure my carry-on bag to make sure it fits airline requirements? When you measure your suitcase, be sure to account for the wheels, handles (both retracted and side-mounted), and any outside pockets. Use a tape measure to find the true length, width, and height at their widest points. The specified dimensions in inches or cm refer to this overall size.

Many bags marketed as “carry-on” can be slightly larger than the standard 22 x 14 x 9 inches, especially when expanded. Always verify the measurements yourself to ensure compliance and avoid having to check your bag.

Weight Limits and What Counts Toward the Total

Beyond size, some airlines also impose a weight limit on your carry-on suitcase. While domestic U.S. carriers rarely weigh carry-on bags unless they appear unusually heavy, international airlines are often much stricter. What is the standard carry-on luggage size allowed by most airlines in terms of weight? For international carriers, this can be as low as 15-22 pounds.

It’s also helpful to know what doesn’t count toward your one-bag-and-one-item allowance. Most airlines allow you to bring certain items on board for free, in addition to your standard carry-on and personal item.

These typically include:

• A jacket or umbrella
• Food or drinks purchased after security
• Duty-free merchandise
• Special items like strollers, crutches, or child safety seats

Liquids, gels, and pastes must follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, while items like your laptop or briefcase usually count as your personal item.

Domestic vs. International: Do Rules Vary?

Are there different carry-on size limits for international flights compared to domestic? Absolutely. While flying within the U.S. has become somewhat standardized, international travel is a different story. Airlines based in Europe, Asia, and other regions, such as Lufthansa or carriers flying to Canada, often have stricter rules.

These differences usually involve both size and weight restrictions. A suitcase that is perfectly acceptable for a domestic flight might be considered oversized or overweight for an international one. Before any overseas trip, it is essential to check the specific carry-on policy of the airline you will be flying with.

Differences Between Domestic and International Flight Restrictions

When traveling abroad, the biggest surprise for many passengers is the enforcement of carry-on weight limits. Are there different carry-on size limits for international flights compared to domestic? While the size dimensions might be similar or slightly smaller, the weight is often the critical factor. Many European and Asian carriers strictly enforce weight limits, which can be as low as 15-22 pounds (about 7-10 kg).

Another key difference involves special items. While domestic flights have clear guidelines for things like child safety seats and medically necessary liquids like breast milk, the rules can vary when you cross borders. Duty-free items purchased in sealed bags may also face different screening procedures in other countries.

Key differences to watch for on international flights include:

• Stricter weight limits: Routinely checked and enforced.
• Potentially smaller size limits: Especially on budget carriers.
• Varying rules for liquids and special items: Always check the policies for your destination and any connecting countries.

Before flying with a carrier like Lufthansa or to a destination like Canada, always review their specific suitcase requirements.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of carry-on luggage can be a bit overwhelming, especially with varying regulations across different U.S. airlines. Understanding the standard sizes and restrictions is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. By knowing the allowed dimensions and recent policy updates, you can pack smarter and avoid those last-minute surprises at the airport. Remember to measure your bag accurately, considering both exterior dimensions and weight limits, as this can make a significant difference in your travel plans. Being informed not only saves you time but also ensures that your journey starts off on the right foot. If you have any questions or need personalized advice on packing for your next trip, feel free to reach out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 24-inch suitcase as my carry-on?

Generally, a 24-inch suitcase is too large to be a carry-on for most major U.S. airlines, which limit length to 22 inches. It will not fit in their sizing bins or the overhead bin. The main exception is Southwest Airlines, which does allow 24-inch luggage.

Has the standard carry-on luggage size changed for 2025?

While the current standard of 45 linear inches (22x14x9) is holding steady, airline policies can change. Due to limited overhead bin space, carriers are enforcing size limits more strictly. There are no confirmed changes for 2025, but always check your airline’s website for the latest rules and weight restrictions before flying.

What if my carry-on bag is slightly over the allowed size?

If your carry-on suitcase is slightly oversized, you risk being forced to check it at the gate, which may come with a fee. Enforcement varies, but on full flights, airlines are very strict. The bag may not fit in the sizer or the overhead bin. The TSA doesn’t police size, but the airline will.