What is the standard carry-on size for most airlines?

Most major airlines allow carry-on bags up to 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm), including handles and wheels. However, budget airlines often have smaller limits (around 21.5 × 15.5 × 9 inches), so always check your specific airline's policy before packing.

How much can a checked bag weigh?

For domestic flights, most airlines allow checked bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg). International flights typically allow 50 lbs in economy and up to 70 lbs (32 kg) in business/first class. Bags exceeding these limits incur overweight fees ranging from $50-$200.

What counts as a personal item?

A personal item is a smaller bag that fits under the seat in front of you, typically measuring 18 × 14 × 8 inches or less. Examples include purses, laptop bags, small backpacks, briefcases, and camera bags. You can bring one personal item in addition to your carry-on bag.

Do carry-on weight limits exist?

Most U.S. airlines don't enforce carry-on weight limits, but international and budget carriers often do. Common limits are 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg). Airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and most Asian carriers strictly enforce these limits at check-in and boarding gates.

Are baggage rules different for international flights?

Yes. International flights often use the piece concept (number of bags) or weight concept (total weight allowance). Many international airlines allow 2 free checked bags in economy, higher weight limits in premium cabins, and stricter carry-on weight enforcement than domestic U.S. flights.

How can I avoid baggage fees?

To avoid fees: pack only a carry-on and personal item, use a luggage scale before leaving home, join airline loyalty programs for free checked bags, get an airline credit card, fly premium cabins, or choose airlines that include free checked bags (like Southwest).

What happens if my bag is too big at the gate?

If your carry-on doesn't fit in the overhead bin or sizer, gate agents will require you to check it. You'll typically pay a gate-check fee ($25-$35) which is higher than if you'd paid for a checked bag online. To avoid this, measure your bag at home and arrive early.

Can I bring a carry-on and a backpack?

Yes, as long as your backpack qualifies as a personal item (typically 18 × 14 × 8 inches or smaller) and fits under the seat. If your backpack is larger, it counts as your carry-on bag, and you can only bring one additional personal item like a purse or laptop bag.

Do airlines measure carry-on bags?

Airlines can measure carry-on bags at check-in or the gate using bag sizers. This is more common on full flights, budget airlines, and international carriers. If your bag doesn't fit in the sizer, you'll be required to check it and pay applicable fees.

What's the difference between linear inches and dimensions?

Linear inches is the sum of length + width + height. For example, a bag measuring 27 × 21 × 14 inches equals 62 linear inches total. Airlines use this measurement for checked bags to ensure they fit in cargo holds and on baggage belts.

Airline Baggage Size & Weight Limits (2026 Guide)

Carry-on, personal item, and checked baggage rules for major airlines — updated for 2026 with exact dimensions, weight limits, and packing tips.

Updated February 2026

International & Domestic Airlines

Based on Official Airline Policies

Luggage measurement diagram showing how to measure carry-on bag dimensions with length, width, and height indicators

Understanding airline baggage size and weight limits can save you hundreds of dollars in unexpected fees and prevent stressful gate-check situations. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about carry-on dimensions, personal item sizes, checked baggage weight limits, and airline-specific policies for 2026.

Whether you're a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler, knowing the exact measurements and weight restrictions for your airline helps you pack smarter, avoid fees, and breeze through the airport with confidence.

Quick Navigation

Quick Reference: Baggage Types at a Glance

Bag Type	Typical Size Limit	Weight Limit	Where It Goes
Carry-On Bag	22 x 14 x 9 inches	No limit (most airlines)	Overhead bin
Personal Item	18 x 14 x 8 inches	No limit	Under seat in front
Checked Bag (Domestic)	62 linear inches total	50 lbs	Cargo hold
Checked Bag (International)	62 linear inches total	50 lbs (Economy)	Cargo hold

Note: These are general guidelines. Always check your specific airline's policy before traveling.

Carry-On Baggage Size & Weight Limits

Standard Carry-On Size

Most major U.S. airlines allow carry-on bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. This measurement represents the maximum external dimensions your bag can have to fit in the overhead bin.

How to Measure Your Carry-On Correctly

1
Include everything:
Measure the bag with handles, wheels, and any external pockets fully extended.
2
Use a tape measure:
Measure length (longest side), width (front to back), and height (top to bottom including wheels).
3
Check linear inches:
Add all three dimensions together. For carry-ons, this should not exceed 45 linear inches (22+14+9).
4
Test the fit:
If possible, test your bag in the airline's sizing bin at the airport before your trip.

Carry-On Size Limits by Airline

Airline	Carry-On Size	Weight Limit	Notes
American Airlines	22 x 14 x 9 in	No limit	Standard policy
Delta	22 x 14 x 9 in	No limit	Standard policy
United	22 x 14 x 9 in	No limit	Standard policy
Southwest	24 x 16 x 10 in	No limit	Slightly larger allowed
JetBlue	22 x 14 x 9 in	No limit	Standard policy
Alaska Airlines	22 x 14 x 9 in	No limit	Standard policy
Spirit Airlines	22 x 18 x 10 in	No limit	Wider dimensions
Frontier	24 x 16 x 10 in	35 lbs	Weight limit applies
Air Canada	21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in	22 lbs (10 kg)	Slightly smaller
British Airways	22 x 18 x 10 in	51 lbs (23 kg)	International carrier
Lufthansa	21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in	18 lbs (8 kg)	Strict weight limit
Emirates	22 x 15 x 8 in	15 lbs (7 kg)	Strict weight limit

Important Note

While most U.S. domestic airlines don't enforce weight limits on carry-ons, international carriers often do. Always check your specific airline's policy, especially for international flights.

Will My Bag Fit? Airline Baggage Size Checker

Enter your luggage dimensions to instantly check if it meets airline size requirements

Length (cm)

Width (cm)

Height (cm)

This baggage size checker helps travelers quickly estimate whether a bag meets typical airline carry-on or personal item size limits. Rules may vary by airline, aircraft type, and route.

Personal Item Size Rules

What Is a Personal Item?

A personal item is a smaller bag that must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) as the maximum size. This is in addition to your carry-on bag.

What Qualifies as a Personal Item?

Acceptable Personal Items

Purse or handbag
Laptop bag or briefcase
Small backpack (under 18x14x8)
Camera bag
Diaper bag
Tote bag (if it fits under seat)

Not Acceptable as Personal Items

Full-size backpack
Duffel bag (unless very small)
Shopping bags (too large)
Oversized purse or tote
Duty-free shopping bags (separate allowance)

Personal Item Sizes by Airline

Airline	Personal Item Size	Examples
American Airlines	18 x 14 x 8 in	Purse, laptop bag, small backpack
Delta	Must fit under seat	No specific dimensions given
United	17 x 10 x 9 in	Smaller than most airlines
Southwest	18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 in	Slightly larger allowed
Spirit Airlines	18 x 14 x 8 in	Strictly enforced
Frontier	18 x 14 x 8 in	Strictly enforced
JetBlue	17 x 13 x 8 in	Smaller dimensions

Checked Baggage Weight & Size Limits

Standard Checked Bag Limits

Most airlines allow checked bags up to 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 pounds (23 kg) for economy class on domestic flights. International flights and premium cabins may have different allowances.

Checked Bag Policies by Airline

Airline	Size Limit	Weight Limit	First Bag Fee
American Airlines	62 linear in	50 lbs	$35 (online)
Delta	62 linear in	50 lbs	$35 (online)
United	62 linear in	50 lbs	$35 (online)
Southwest	62 linear in	50 lbs	FREE (2 bags)
JetBlue	62 linear in	50 lbs	$35-$45
Alaska Airlines	62 linear in	50 lbs	$35 (online)
Spirit Airlines	62 linear in	40 lbs	$41-$55
Frontier	62 linear in	50 lbs	$39-$59

Overweight & Oversized Bag Fees

Weight/Size	American/Delta/United	Southwest	Spirit/Frontier
51-70 lbs	$100	$75	$50-$75
71-100 lbs	$200	$75	$100
Over 100 lbs	Not accepted	Not accepted	Not accepted
63-80 linear in	$200	$75	$100
Over 80 linear in	Not accepted	Not accepted	Not accepted

Save Money Tip

Overweight and oversized fees can be combined. A bag that's both 65 lbs and 65 linear inches could cost you $300 in fees on top of the base baggage fee. Always weigh and measure before heading to the airport.

Baggage Weight Limit Checker

Check if your bag weight is within airline limits

Bag Weight

Baggage Type

Unit

Estimated Airline Baggage Fees

Get a realistic fee range estimate for your baggage

Baggage Category

Weight Range

Route Type

Why baggage fees vary: Airlines set different baggage policies based on route profitability, aircraft type, competition, and business model. Budget carriers typically charge for all bags, while full-service airlines may include one or more checked bags. Premium cabin passengers and elite frequent flyers often receive baggage fee waivers.

Understanding Baggage Calculators

The baggage calculators above help travelers estimate whether their luggage meets typical airline requirements and what fees they might encounter. However, it's important to understand that airline baggage policies vary significantly.

Why baggage limits and fees vary: Airlines set different policies based on route profitability, aircraft type, competition, and business model. Budget carriers typically charge for all bags, while full-service airlines may include checked baggage. Premium cabin passengers and elite frequent flyers often receive additional allowances or fee waivers.

These calculators provide guidance based on common industry standards, but they cannot guarantee airline acceptance or exact fees. Always verify your specific airline's current baggage policy before traveling, as rules change frequently and vary by route, cabin class, and booking type.

View Airline Comparison Tables

See specific airline policies

Carry-On & Checked Rules

Detailed size and weight limits

International vs Domestic Baggage Differences

Domestic Flights (U.S.)

Weight limit: 50 lbs per bag (economy)
Size limit: 62 linear inches
Free bags: Usually 0 (except Southwest)
First bag fee: $35-$45 (online)
Overweight fee: $100 for 51-70 lbs

International Flights

Weight limit: 50 lbs (economy), 70 lbs (business/first)
Size limit: 62 linear inches (same as domestic)
Free bags: Usually 1-2 bags (economy)
Piece concept: Number of bags matters more than total weight
Premium cabins: Higher weight allowances and more free bags

Understanding the "Piece Concept"

International flights typically use the "piece concept" where you're allowed a certain number of bags (usually 1-2 for economy, 2-3 for business/first class), each with its own weight limit. This differs from some international carriers that use a total weight allowance system where you can distribute weight across multiple bags as long as the total doesn't exceed the limit.

Complete Airline Baggage Comparison

Airline	Carry-On	Personal Item	Checked (1st)	Fee
American Airlines	22x14x9"	18x14x8"	50 lbs	$35
Delta	22x14x9"	Under seat	50 lbs	$35
United	22x14x9"	17x10x9"	50 lbs	$35
Southwest	24x16x10"	18.5x13.5x8.5"	50 lbs	FREE
JetBlue	22x14x9"	17x13x8"	50 lbs	$35-$45
Alaska Airlines	22x14x9"	Under seat	50 lbs	$35
Spirit Airlines	22x18x10"	18x14x8"	40 lbs	$41-$55
Frontier	24x16x10"	18x14x8"	50 lbs	$39-$59

Fees shown are for online purchases. Airport fees are typically $10-$20 higher. Always check the airline's official website for the most current policies and fees.

8 Common Baggage Mistakes Travelers Make

1. Not Measuring Bags Before Traveling

Many travelers assume their bag is carry-on size without actually measuring it. Gate agents can force you to check oversized bags, often with fees of $35-$65.

✓ Solution: Measure your bag at home including wheels and handles. Test it in the airline's sizing bin if possible.

2. Paying Baggage Fees at the Airport

Airport baggage fees are significantly higher than online fees. For example, Delta charges $30 online vs $100 at the airport for a second bag.

✓ Solution: Pre-pay for checked bags online up to 24 hours before departure. You can save $20-$70 per bag.

3. Bringing Two Personal Items

Airlines allow 1 carry-on + 1 personal item. Trying to bring a purse AND a laptop bag as separate items will result in one being gate-checked.

✓ Solution: Fit your purse inside your laptop bag, or use a small crossbody bag that fits inside your backpack.

4. Not Weighing Bags Before Check-In

Overweight bag fees start at $50-$100 for bags 51-70 lbs. Many travelers don't realize how heavy their packed bag is until they're at the airport.

✓ Solution: Use a luggage scale at home. If overweight, move items to your carry-on or personal item.

5. Assuming International Rules Are the Same as Domestic

International flights often have different baggage allowances, including free checked bags and higher weight limits for premium cabins.

✓ Solution: Always check your specific route's baggage policy. International flights may allow 2 free checked bags.

6. Packing Prohibited Items in Carry-On

Liquids over 3.4 oz, sharp objects, and certain tools must go in checked bags. TSA will confiscate prohibited items, causing delays.

✓ Solution: Review TSA's prohibited items list before packing. Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-ons.

7. Not Checking Airline-Specific Policies

Budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier have stricter size limits and charge for carry-ons. What's free on one airline may cost $50 on another.

✓ Solution: Check your specific airline's baggage policy before booking. Factor baggage fees into your total trip cost.

8. Forgetting About Connecting Flights

If you're connecting through different airlines, baggage policies may differ. Your bag might be free on one leg but cost $35 on another.

✓ Solution: Check baggage policies for ALL airlines on your itinerary. The most restrictive policy usually applies.

Quick Checklist Before Your Flight

Measure carry-on and personal item dimensions
Weigh checked bags at home
Pre-pay for checked bags online
Review TSA prohibited items list
Check airline-specific policies
Verify policies for connecting flights

6 Ways to Avoid Baggage Fees

1. Get Airline Credit Cards

Most airline credit cards offer free checked bags for you and companions on the same reservation. This alone can save $70-$140 per round trip.

2. Join Loyalty Programs

Elite status members get free checked bags. Even basic membership can earn you perks like priority boarding and occasional fee waivers.

3. Pack Carry-On Only

Master the art of carry-on packing. Use packing cubes, wear bulky items on the plane, and pack versatile clothing to avoid checked bag fees entirely.

4. Ship Items Ahead

For long trips, shipping clothes and gear ahead via USPS or UPS can be cheaper than paying overweight baggage fees, especially for items over 50 lbs.

5. Redistribute Weight

If one bag is overweight, move items to your carry-on or personal item. Wear heavy shoes and jackets on the plane to reduce checked bag weight.

6. Pre-Pay Online

Always pre-pay for checked bags online. Airport fees are $10-$20 higher per bag. Some airlines offer discounts for paying 24+ hours in advance.

Potential Annual Savings

$280

4 round trips with free checked bags via credit card

$80

Pre-paying online vs airport fees (4 trips)

$400

Avoiding overweight fees by packing smart

Total: $760+ saved per year

By following these strategies, frequent travelers can save hundreds annually on baggage fees.

Airline Policies Change Frequently

Baggage policies, fees, and size limits can change with little notice. While this guide is updated regularly (last updated February 2026), always verify current policies on your airline's official website before traveling.

American Airlines Baggage Policy Delta Baggage Information United Baggage Rules Southwest Bags Fly Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Most U.S. airlines allow carry-on bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. However, some budget airlines have smaller limits (like Spirit at 22 x 18 x 10 inches). Always check your specific airline's policy before packing.

Yes, most airlines allow one carry-on bag plus one personal item (like a backpack, purse, or laptop bag). Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you, typically no larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches. The carry-on goes in the overhead bin.

Overweight bag fees vary by airline and route. For domestic flights, expect $50-$100 for bags 51-70 lbs, and $100-200 for bags 71-100 lbs. International flights may have different tiers. Some airlines charge per pound over the limit. Check your airline's fee structure before your flight.

Yes, especially during busy travel periods or on full flights. Gate agents may use sizing bins to check if your bag fits within limits. If your bag is too large, you'll be forced to gate-check it, which may incur fees ($35-$65 depending on the airline). It's best to comply with size limits from the start.

Yes. International flights often use the 'piece concept' (typically 50 lbs per bag) rather than total weight. Some international routes allow 2 free checked bags instead of 1. Business and first-class passengers usually get higher weight allowances (70 lbs per bag). Always check your specific route and fare class.

Yes, and you should. Pre-paying for overweight or extra bags online is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport. For example, Delta charges $30 online vs $100 at the airport for a second bag. Most airlines allow you to add baggage up to 24 hours before departure through their website or app.

Bags exceeding size limits (typically over 62 linear inches) are considered oversized and incur additional fees, usually $100-200 per bag. Extremely large items may need to be shipped as cargo instead. Sports equipment like skis or golf clubs often have special handling and fees.

It depends on age and ticket type. Infants under 2 (lap children) typically get 1 checked bag and 1 collapsible stroller. Children 2+ with their own seat usually get the same allowance as adults. Some airlines offer reduced baggage allowances for infant tickets. Check your airline's family travel policy.

No. Most airlines allow only 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item. You must choose between your purse or laptop bag as your personal item, or fit one inside the other. Some travelers use a small crossbody purse that fits inside their laptop bag to maximize space.

Yes. Most airlines don't count these toward your limit: medical devices (CPAP, wheelchair), assistive devices (cane, walker), child safety seats, strollers, breast pumps, coats/jackets, food for infants, and duty-free purchases made after security. Always declare medical items at check-in.

Key Takeaways

Standard carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches for most airlines
Personal items must fit under the seat (typically 18 x 14 x 8 inches)
Checked bags are limited to 50 lbs and 62 linear inches for domestic flights
Pre-paying for bags online saves $10-$20 per bag compared to airport fees
International flights often have different allowances and free checked bags
Always check your specific airline's policy before traveling