Airline Carry-On Rules

There is nothing worse than thinking you’ve dodged the luggage check-in process only to find out at the gate, your bag is too big and you’re going to have to check it.

Every airline has its own specific and somewhat unique carry-on luggage rules with different size and weight restrictions. On top of that, some airlines charge to carry a bag on the plane with you and some don’t.

If you want to avoid surprises and extra fees, you need to understand these rules intimately.

In order to help you figure out the right size and weight dimensions for your carry-on, we’ve put together this chart detailing some of the most popular airlines’ carry-on restrictions, including the size and weight of a standard carry-on, as well as if there is a fee.

North American Airlines Carry-On Luggage Chart

Quick note on the numbers: Airlines publish size limits in inches or centimeters, and some do not publish a carry-on weight limit. In the chart below, “—” means the airline does not list a standard weight limit for typical carry-on bags (though local airport or aircraft restrictions may still apply). All dimensions include wheels and handles unless the airline states otherwise.

Note: *Hawaiian Airlines was acquired by Alaska Airlines in December 2024. Current policies remain in effect but may change as integration progresses.

Packing liquids? TSA sets the U.S. carry-on liquids rule (the 3-1-1 rule). Here’s the simple version, plus exceptions and examples: The TSA liquids rule.

International Airlines Carry-On Luggage Chart

Below is some additional information beyond what is in the chart above.

What is carry-on Luggage?

Any suitcase or backpack that you bring with you on the plane is considered carry-on luggage. Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage that will fit in the overhead bin, plus a personal item that will fit under the seat in front of you at no charge.

However, low-cost airlines have very different carry-on luggage rules and will typically allow just a personal item at no charge, and they will charge you for your carry-on bags.

What is the weight limit for carry-on luggage?

Most U.S. domestic airlines don’t publish specific weight limits for carry-on bags on domestic flights. However, passengers must be able to lift and stow their bags in the overhead bin without assistance. If you can safely lift the bag into the overhead bin, then you’re in good shape.  

However, some low-cost carriers and international airlines have weight limits for carry-on bags ranging from 15 to 35 pounds.  Check your airline’s rules before you fly to be sure.

International flights often have stricter weight limits:

• 15-18 lbs: Common for Middle Eastern carriers (Emirates, Etihad, Qatar) and some Asian carriers
• 18-22 lbs: Typical for European carriers (Lufthansa, SWISS, Brussels Airlines)
• 22-26 lbs: Some premium international routes (Air France, KLM, British Airways)

Regional jets and smaller aircraft may have additional restrictions regardless of airline. Some low-cost carriers like Frontier and Sun Country have weight limits of 35 lbs for overhead carry-ons. Always check your specific flight details, especially for international travel.”

What is a personal item?

A personal item can be a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, diaper bag, or small backpack.   Most airlines allow personal items around 17″ x 13″ x 8″, though this varies by carrier. The key is that it must fit completely under the seat in front of you.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

When packing your carry-on, be aware that the same items that are prohibited in checked bags apply to carry-on bags.  This includes things such as firearms, sharp objects, fireworks, and other potentially hazardous items.

For a complete list of what is and what is not allowed in both your carry-on and your checked bags, refer to the TSA What Can I Bring page.

What Happens If My Bag Is Too Big?

If your carry-on exceeds the airline’s size limits, here’s what typically happens:

• Gate agents may require you to check it: This is most common on full flights when overhead bin space is limited.
• On major carriers: Gate checking is usually free (called “valet check” or “planeside check”). You’ll pick up your bag at the jetway or baggage claim.
• On budget carriers: You’ll pay the gate check fee, which is significantly higher than pre-purchasing carry-on access (often $65+ vs. $25-35 when booked online).
• Soft-sided bags have more flexibility: They can compress slightly and are less likely to be flagged than hard-shell bags of the same dimensions.