Ultimate Guide to Carry On Luggage Size Regulations for Major Airlines
Understanding carry on luggage size regulations is crucial for every traveler, as it ensures a smooth journey through airport security and boarding processes. Each airline has its own set of rules regarding the dimensions and weight of carry on bags, often varying between domestic and international flights. This guide aims to clarify these regulations for major airlines, helping you pack efficiently and avoid unnecessary hassles during your travels.
General Guidelines for Carry On Luggage
Carry on luggage refers to the bags passengers are allowed to bring into the cabin of an aircraft. Typically, these bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Dimensions commonly range around 22 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in depth, though this can vary slightly depending on the airline. Weight limits may also apply, often around 15-25 pounds.
Major Airlines and Their Carry On Size Regulations
Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines allows carry on bags that do not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. In addition to this, passengers may carry one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag.
United Airlines: United Airlines permits carry on bags with maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. They also allow one personal item that fits under the seat, such as a small backpack or handbag.
American Airlines: American Airlines specifies a carry on bag size limit of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. They allow one personal item like a purse or small backpack, which should fit under the seat in front of you.
Comparison of Carry On Size Regulations
To help you navigate the different rules, here's a comparison table summarizing carry on size limits across major airlines:
| American Carry on Luggage Sizes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airline | Carry-On Size (in) | Carry-On Weight (lb) | Carry-On Size (cm) | Carry-On Weight (kg) |
| Aeromexico | 21.5 x 15.7 x 10 | 22 lb1 | 55 x 40 x 25 | 10 kg1 |
| Air Canada | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | Not specified | 55 x 40 x 23 | Not specified |
| Alaska Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | Not specified | 56 x 36 x 23 | Not specified |
| Allegiant Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | Not specified | 56 x 36 x 23 | Not specified |
| Avianca Airlines | 21.5 x 13.5 x 10 | 22 lb | 55 x 35 x 25 | 10 kg |
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | Not specified | 56 x 36 x 23 | Not specified |
| Delta Air Lines | 22 x 14 x 9 | 15 or 22 lb2 | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 or 10 kg2 |
| Frontier Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | 35 lb | 61 x 41 x 25 | 16 kg |
| Hawaiian Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | 25 lb | 56 x 36 x 23 | 11 kg |
| JetBlue Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | Not specified | 56 x 36 x 23 | Not specified |
| Southwest Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | Not specified | 61 x 41 x 25 | Not specified |
| Spirit Airlines | 22 x 18 x 10 | Not specified | 56 x 46 x 25 | Not specified |
| Sun Country Airlines | 24 x 16 x 11 | 35 lb | 61 x 41 x 28 | 16 kg |
| United Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | Not specified | 56 x 36 x 23 | Not specified |
| WestJet | 21 x 15 x 9 | Not specified | 53 x 38 x 23 | Not specified |
| European Carry on Luggage Sizes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airline | Carry-On Size (in) | Carry-On Weight (lb) | Carry-On Size (cm) | Carry-On Weight (kg) |
| Aer Lingus | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9.5 | 22 lb | 55 x 40 x 24 | 10 kg |
| Aeroflot | 80 in1 | 51 lb | 203 cm1 | 23 kg |
| Air France | 21.5 x 14 x 10 | 26 lb | 55 x 35 x 25 | 12 kg |
| Alitalia | 21.5 x 14 x 8 | 18 lb | 55 x 35 x 20 | 8 kg |
| British Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 51 lb | 56 x 45 x 25 | 23 kg |
| easyJet | 22 x 18 x 10 | Not specified | 56 x 45 x 25 | Not specified |
| Iberia | 22 x 15.5 x 10 | 22 lb | 56 x 40 x 25 | 10 kg |
| Icelandair | 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 | 22 lb | 55 x 40 x 20 | 10 kg |
| KLM | 21.5 x 14 x 10 | 26 lb2 | 55 x 35 x 25 | 12 kg2 |
| Lufthansa | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 18 lb | 55 x 40 x 23 | 8 kg |
| Norwegian Air Shuttle | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 22 lb2 | 55 x 40 x 23 | 10 kg2 |
| Ryanair | 21.5 x 15.5 x 8 | 22 lb | 55 x 40 x 20 | 10 kg |
| SAS Scandinavian Airlines | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 18 lb | 55 x 40 x 23 | 8 kg |
| Swiss Air Lines | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 18 lb | 55 x 40 x 23 | 8 kg |
| Turkish Airlines | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 | 18 lb | 55 x 40 x 23 | 8 kg |
| Vueling | 21.5 x 15.5 x 8 | 22 lb | 55 x 40 x 23 | 10 kg |
International Airlines and Their Carry On Size Policies
British Airways: British Airways allows carry on bags up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches, with an additional personal item like a laptop bag or handbag.
Lufthansa: Lufthansa's carry on baggage must not exceed 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 inches. Passengers may also bring a smaller personal item on board.
Practical Advice for Travelers
To avoid issues at the airport, pack efficiently and consider using compression bags to maximize space. Place liquids and electronics in easily accessible compartments for security checks. Opt for TSA-approved locks to secure your belongings while complying with airline regulations.
Understanding carry on luggage size regulations for major airlines is essential for hassle-free travel. By familiarizing yourself with these rules and packing accordingly, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Always check the latest guidelines from your airline before departure to avoid any surprises at the airport.