New Carry-On Rules for Flights

Are you up to date with the new carry-on rules for air travel?

Airlines are now enforcing stricter limits on the size and number of bags you can bring on board.

To avoid surprises at the airport, learn what’s changed and how to pack smart for your next trip. 😊

1. Stick to the Two-Item Limit

a. What You Can Bring

One larger carry-on bag: Think rolling suitcases that fit in the overhead bin.
One personal item: This includes items like a purse, backpack, laptop bag, or diaper bag.

b. What’s Changed?

Airlines are now strictly enforcing this two-item limit. Even seasoned travelers are getting caught off guard.

For example, Southwest Airlines counts items like cameras, laptops, briefcases, and even blankets as your personal item.

They say it’s not a new policy, just a clarification—but it’s catching many by surprise.

c. Are There Exceptions?

Generally, things you buy at the airport don’t count toward your luggage limits.

2. Mind the Size of Your Bags

a. Carry-On Suitcase Size Limits

Most airlines allow carry-on bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels).

b. Personal Item Size Limits

Usually around 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
Some airlines are less specific, simply stating it must fit under the seat in front of you.

c. Tip

Measure your bags at home to ensure they meet the airline’s size requirements.

Remember to include handles and wheels in your measurements.

It’s better to double-check before you leave than to be surprised at the airport.

d. Important Note for United Airlines Basic Economy Travelers

Carry-On Restrictions

Passengers with a basic economy ticket on United Airlines are limited to one personal item only.
No full-size carry-on bags are allowed in the cabin for these tickets.

Routes Affected

This policy applies to domestic flights within the U.S..
Also applicable to flights between the U.S. and Canada.

What This Means for You

Ensure all your essentials fit into your personal item.
Plan ahead to avoid extra fees or the need to check your bag at the gate.

3. Why the Rules Are Tighter Now

a. Overhead Bin Space

More people are bringing carry-on luggage, which means overhead bins fill up fast.
The amount of space can vary depending on the type of aircraft.

b. Speeding Up Boarding

Airlines want to make boarding quicker and more efficient.
Limiting carry-on items helps reduce delays caused by passengers struggling to stow their bags.

4. What Happens If You Don’t Comply

If your bags don’t meet the limits, here’s what could happen:

Gate-Checking: You might have to check your carry-on bag at the gate for free—if you’re lucky.
Extra Fees: You could be asked to pay to check your bag, which might come with additional costs.
Denied Boarding: Refuse to comply, and you might not be allowed to board the plane.

5. Quick Reference: Major Domestic Airlines’ Baggage Policies

I understand that sifting through different airline websites can be time-consuming.

To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of carry-on policies for some major airlines below.

American Airlines

1. Alaska Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag

2. Allegiant Air

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 16 x 10 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches

*Heads Up for Allegiant Air Flyers: No free carry-ons. Fees start at $15.

3. American Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches

4. Delta Air Lines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: A purse, laptop bag, or similarly sized item that can fit under the seat in front of you.

5. Frontier Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 24 x 16 x 10 inches – Capped at 35 pounds (15 kg)
Personal item size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches

*Heads Up for Frontier Airlines Flyers: No free carry-ons. Fees start at $52.

6. Hawaiian Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 25 pounds (11 kg)
Personal item size limit: A purse, briefcase, laptop, small backpack, or similar item, each of which must fit securely under the seat in front of you.

7. JetBlue

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 17 x 13 x 8 inches

8. Southwest Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 24 x 16 x 10 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 16 x 13 x 8 inches

9. Spirit Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 18 x 10 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches

*Heads Up for Spirit Airlines Flyers: No free carry-ons. Fees start at $28.

10. Sun Country Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 24 x 16 x 11 inches – Capped at 35 pounds (15 kg)
Personal item size limit: 17 x 13 x 9 inches

*Heads Up for Sun Country Airlines Flyers: No free carry-ons. Fees start at $30.

11. United Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 17 x 10 x 9 inches

*Heads Up for Basic Economy Flyers: In basic economy, you are not allowed a full-size carry-on; you’ll be limited to just a personal item.

Australian Airlines

1. Qantas Airways

Hand luggage size limit (International):

Economy Class: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 15 pounds (7 kg)
Premium Economy, Business, and First Class: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 22 pounds (10 kg) per piece, with a total combined weight limit of 30 pounds (14 kg) for two pieces.

Personal item size limit: A small personal item such as a handbag, laptop, camera, or reading material, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

2. Virgin Australia

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 15 pounds (7 kg)
Personal item size limit: A small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

3. Jetstar Airways

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 15 pounds (7 kg)
Personal item size limit: A small item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or similar that must fit under the seat in front of you.

British Airlines

1. British Airways

Hand luggage size limit (Economy and Premium Economy): 22 x 18 x 10 inches – Capped at 51 pounds (23 kg)
Personal item size limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches

2. Virgin Atlantic

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches – Capped at 22 pounds (10 kg)
Personal item size limit: One small personal item such as a handbag or small backpack that fits under the seat in front.

Canada Airline

1. Air Canada

Hand luggage size limit:5 x 15.5 x 9 inches – No weight limit
Personal item size limit: 17 x 13 x 6 inches

Japanese Airlines

1. Japan Airlines

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 16 x 10 inches – Capped at 22 pounds (10 kg)
Personal item size limit: Handbag, laptop bag, camera bag, or other small item.

2. All Nippon Airways

Hand luggage size limit: 22 x 16 x 10 inches – Capped at 22 pounds (10 kg)
Personal item size limit: A personal belonging such as a handbag, camera, or umbrella that should be small enough to fit under the seat in front.

Singaporean Airlines

1. Singapore Airlines

Hand luggage size limit (Economy and Premium Economy): Sum of length, width and height of each piece should not exceed 45 inches – Capped at 15 pounds (7 kg)
Personal item size limit: One additional item allowed (e.g. handbag, laptop bag, camera bag).

2. Scoot

Hand luggage size limit (Economy): 22 x 14 x 9 inches (54cm x 38cm x 23cm) – Capped at 22 pounds (10 kg)
Personal item size limit: 15 x 11 x 4 inches (40cm x 30cm x 10cm)

Tip: You’re allowed to bring a few extra items for free along with your carry-on and personal item, such as a jacket or coat, umbrella, wheelchair, stroller, diaper bag, or breast pump.

6. How to Breeze Through the Airport

a. Check-In Online

Skip the counter if you can. Checking in online means you can go straight to security and the gate, reducing the chances of your bags being scrutinized.

b. Use Soft-Sided Bags

Soft bags can be squeezed into tight spaces and appear less bulky.
They’re easier to fit into overhead bins and under seats.

c. Be Prepared for Gate-Checking

Always keep essential items like your passport, wallet, medications, and electronics in your personal item. This way, even if you’re separated from your carry-on temporarily, your most important belongings stay with you.
Consider bringing a packable tote or backpack in case you need to transfer items if your bag gets checked.

7. Handling Liquids and Electronics

a. Follow the 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids

4 ounces or less per container.
All liquids must fit in one quart-sized, clear plastic bag.
One bag per passenger.

b. Tips

Place your liquids bag in an outer pocket for easy access during security checks.
If possible, pack liquids in your checked luggage to speed up the screening process.

c. Manage Your Electronics

Keep laptops and larger electronics easily accessible.
You’ll need to remove them from your bag during security screening.
Organize cords and chargers to prevent them from looking messy or suspicious on the X-ray.

d. Avoid Items That Trigger Extra Screening

Some items commonly cause delays at security checkpoints:

Spreadable foods like peanut butter and honey.
Items wrapped in aluminium foil.
Any metal objects that might block the scanner’s view.

e. Baby Food

If you’re traveling with a baby or have special dietary needs, there are some allowances for food and drink.

Baby formula, breast milk, and toddler drinks can exceed the liquid limit but should be declared at the security checkpoint.

8. Packing Tips to Maximize Space

a. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.
It’s great for t-shirts, pants, and casual wear.
Plus, you can see everything at a glance when you open your bag.

b. Use Packing Cubes

These are fantastic for organizing and compressing your clothes.
Use different sizes for shirts, pants, and underwear.
Roll your clothes before placing them in the cubes.
They help keep everything neat and make packing and unpacking a breeze.

c. Wear Your Bulkiest Items

Save suitcase space by wearing heavy items like:

Boots or sneakers
Jackets or coats
Jeans
Sweaters or hoodies

d. Try Compression Bags

These are great for reducing the volume of bulky items like sweaters, jackets, towels, and even dirty laundry on your way back.

e. Choose a Larger Personal Item Bag

Opt for a personal item that’s designed to fit under the seat but is roomy enough to hold a lot.

f. Utilize Clothing with Pockets

Wear jackets or vests with multiple pockets to carry small items.
This can help lighten your bags and keep essentials within easy reach.
Just be mindful of the overall weight you’re carrying.

9. Use TSA-Approved Locks for Your Luggage

Even if you plan to keep your bag with you on the flight, it’s a good idea to secure it with a TSA-approved lock. Here’s why:

a. Protect Your Belongings

In case you’re asked to check your carry-on at the gate due to space limitations, a locked bag can help prevent theft.

b. Smooth Security Screening

TSA-approved locks can be opened by security officers using special tools, so they won’t have to break your lock if they need to inspect your bag.

c. Peace of Mind

Knowing your luggage is secured adds an extra layer of confidence during your travels.

10. Label and Photograph Your Carry-On Luggage

Even though your carry-on bag stays with you most of the time, it’s still a good idea to label it and take photos. Here’s why:

a. Why It’s Important

Unexpected Gate-Checking: Sometimes, due to full flights or limited overhead space, you might be asked to check your carry-on at the gate. When this happens, your bag is handled like checked luggage.
Accidental Mix-Ups: In the hustle of boarding or disembarking, it’s possible for someone to mistakenly take your bag or for you to leave it behind.

b. Label Your Carry-On

Attach a Sturdy Tag: Use a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address.
Include an Inside ID: Place a card with your contact information inside the bag as a backup.
Make It Stand Out: Add a unique ribbon, sticker, or luggage belt to help identify your bag quickly.

c. Take Photos of Your Bag

Exterior Shots: Photograph your bag from different angles, highlighting any distinctive features.
Document the Contents: Consider taking a picture of what’s inside, especially if you’re carrying valuable items.

d. Benefits

Quick Recovery: If your bag goes missing, photos and clear labels make it easier for airline staff to locate it.
Prevent Mistakes: Unique identifiers reduce the chance of someone else grabbing your bag by accident.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you can easily describe and identify your bag adds an extra layer of security to your travel experience.