Carry-on and personal item size restrictions

Avoid fees at the airport by understanding carry-on size and weight restrictions.

No one wants to show up for their flight with the wrong size or weight for their carry-on bag. To make sure you don’t fall foul of the rules, we’ve pulled together a list of the major US airlines’ cabin bag allowances so you know the carry-on and personal item size restrictions for domestic and international travel.

What to know about carry-on and personal item sizes

Besides taking a personal item, which can be something like a purse, briefcase, laptop case, or backpack, you may also be allowed to bring a carry-on bag, like a roller bag, duffle bag, or small suitcase. The personal item typically needs to fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on can be placed in the overhead bin. Those traveling with a pet need to count the pet’s carrier as their personal item or carry-on since it will be placed under the seat in front of them.

When it comes to carry-on luggage, you might be wondering about weight restrictions and the possibility of a last-minute check. Though airlines often emphasize the dimensions of your carry-on, they may also check its weight for compliance. If the airline doesn't indicate a weight limit, the standard expectation is that the bag must be light enough for you to lift it into the overhead bin without assistance.

Top tip

In addition to the usual carry-on bags, you can usually bring some small items free of charge, like a jacket, umbrella, food or drinks purchased in the terminal, and products purchased from the duty free shop.

US airlines carry-on luggage size and weight restrictions

No matter which airline you fly, you’ll need to know the carrier's personal item and overhead bag size and weight restrictions. Most airlines focus on the dimensions of your carry-on bag rather than its weight, but they may weigh it if a limit is specified. Use the table below for quick reference, noting that these dimensions include your bag's wheels and handles, if it has them.

Airline	Carry-on bag	Personal item	Weight restrictions
Southwest Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″	Must fit beneath the seat	None specified
American Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	18” x 14” x 8”	None specified
Delta	22″ x 14″ x 9″	Must fit under the seat	None specified
United	22″ x 14″ x 9″	17″ x 10″ x 9″	None specified
Spirit	22″ x 18″ x 10″	18″ x 14″ x 8″	None specified
JetBlue Airways	22″ x 14″ x 9″	17″ x 13″ x 8″	None specified
Alaska Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	Must fit under the seat	None specified
Frontier Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″	14″ x 18″ x 8″	no more than 35 lbs for the carry-on
Allegiant Air	22″ x 16″ x 10″	18″ x 14” x 8”	None specified
Hawaiian Airlines	22″ x 14” x 9”	Must fit under the seat	None specified

Tips for packing your carry-on luggage

Space maximization: Use packing cubes or compression bags to optimize your carry-on capacity.
Balance the load: Distribute the weight evenly to avoid any lopsidedness and prevent overburdening on one side.
Check the rules: The carry-on luggage weight limit for international travel can vary depending on your airline and the destination you’re flying to, so check with the airline before your flight.
Weigh your bag: If your airline doesn't indicate a weight limit, you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin.

FAQs about carry-on luggage size and weight restrictions

Does the carry-on size include a bag’s wheels and handle?

Yes, when measuring for carry-on size restrictions, the wheels and handle of a bag are included in the total dimensions to ensure it fits in the airline’s overhead bin.

What is the Frontier Airlines carry-on weight limit?

Frontier Airlines has a carry-on weight limit of up to 35 pounds.

Does luggage weight include the suitcase?

Yes, the weight limit for carry-on luggage includes the weight of the suitcase. Be sure to consider this when packing to avoid any additional fees or the need to check it.

What happens if my carry-on bag is 1 inch too big?

If your carry-on bag exceeds the airline’s size requirements, the airline may have you check it as regular luggage. Occasionally they may charge an extra fee too – this will often depend on the airline and your fare class.

How strict are airlines about overhead bag size?

This depends on the airline. Airlines have size and, sometimes, weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. It’s unlikely your carry-on bag will be weighed at the airport, but it does happen. More often you’ll be asked to measure it. If your bag is too big, you’ll likely have to check it. Some airlines may charge a fee too.

Am I allowed to bring two backpacks on a plane?

Most airlines allow you to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. Your personal item can include a backpack. If one fits under the seat in front, you can bring two backpacks on a plane.

What is a personal item?

A personal item usually refers to a purse or handbag, a backpack, or electronics bags, such as a camera case or a laptop bag. The rule of thumb is that the “personal” item should be compact enough to be stowed under the seat in front of you.

All the information above is correct as of April 2026. Always check the latest guidance before booking a trip.

Final thoughts: Carry-on and personal item dimensions

Knowing the carry-on and personal item size and weight limits set by your airline will be your ticket to a seamless travel experience. Measure and weigh your bag, make the most of its space, and double-check those rules. Here's to smooth sailing — have a fantastic trip!

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