Last updated: February 2026
Carry on luggage size restrictions by airline vary significantly in 2026. There is no universal standard. While many U.S. airlines allow around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), European budget airlines frequently enforce stricter size and 7kg–10kg weight limits.
This guide explains carry on luggage size restrictions by airline in detail, including size charts, weight limits, and enforcement practices and real-world strictness levels across major U.S., European, and international carriers.
If you want to avoid surprise gate fees, you need to understand your airline’s exact policy before you pack.
2026 Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions by Airline (Quick Comparison)
| Airline | Carry-On Size (inches) | Carry-On Size (cm) | Personal Item | Weight Limit | Carry-On Fee | Strictness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | 24.25 x 16.25 x 10.25 | 62 x 41 x 26 | Yes | 50 lbs | Free | Relaxed |
| Delta | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | Yes | 40 lbs | Free | Moderate |
| American | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | Yes | 40 lbs | Free | Moderate |
| United | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | Yes | 40 lbs | Free | Strict |
| Spirit | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 46 x 25 | 18 x 14 x 8 | 40 lbs | $30–$50 | Extremely Strict |
| Frontier | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 46 x 25 | 18 x 14 x 8 | 40 lbs | $30–$40 | Extremely Strict |
| Allegiant | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 46 x 25 | 18 x 14 x 8 | 40 lbs | $25–$35 | Extremely Strict |
| Ryanair | 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 | 55 x 40 x 20 | 15.7 x 7.9 x 9.8 | 10kg (paid) | Paid | Extremely Strict |
| EasyJet | 17.7 x 14.2 x 7.9 (free) | 45 x 36 x 20 | Same as carry-on | No official cap | Paid for larger | Strict |
| Wizz Air | 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.9 (free) | 40 x 30 x 20 | Same as carry-on | 10kg | Paid for larger | Very Strict |
| British Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 45 x 25 | Yes | 23kg | Free | Moderate |
| Lufthansa | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 45 x 25 | Yes | 12kg | Free | Strict |
| Emirates | 22 x 15 x 8 | 56 x 36 x 23 | Yes | 12kg | Free | Moderate |
Strictness reflects frequency of sizer usage and enforcement at boarding.
Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions by Airline (2026 Size Chart)
Last updated: February 2026
Carry-on luggage size restrictions by airline vary significantly in 2026. There is no universal standard. While many U.S. airlines allow around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), European budget airlines frequently enforce stricter size limits and 7kg–10kg weight caps.
This guide compares carry-on luggage size restrictions by airline, including personal item dimensions, weight limits, enforcement practices, fee structures, and real-world strictness levels across major U.S., European, and international carriers.
If you want to avoid surprise gate fees, forced bag checks, or boarding delays, you must understand your airline’s exact policy before you pack.
2026 Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions by Airline (Quick Comparison)
(Your existing formatted table goes here — keep exactly as shown in your screenshot.)
Strictness reflects frequency of sizer usage and enforcement at boarding.
Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions by Airline in 2026
Airline carry-on rules are increasingly fragmented. Differences of just 1–2 inches or a few kilograms can determine whether you board smoothly or pay a fee.
In 2026, baggage policy is not just operational — it is revenue-driven.
Key realities:
- Budget airlines monetize cabin baggage aggressively.
- European airlines enforce weight limits more consistently than U.S. carriers.
- Basic economy fares sometimes restrict carry-ons.
- Gate sizers are widely used.
- Overhead bin space is increasingly limited on full flights.
Understanding your airline’s specific carry-on size restrictions is essential.
U.S. Airlines Carry-On Size Limits
Most major U.S. carriers follow similar dimension standards but differ in enforcement intensity.
American Airlines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
- 40 lbs
- One carry-on + one personal item
- Moderate enforcement
Delta Air Lines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 14 x 9 inches
- 40 lbs
- Moderate enforcement
United Airlines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 14 x 9 inches
- 40 lbs
- Strict enforcement on full routes
- Basic Economy restrictions may apply
Southwest Airlines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 24.25 x 16.25 x 10.25 inches
- 50 lbs
- Relaxed enforcement
- Two free checked bags policy reduces cabin tension
While dimensions are similar across U.S. carriers, overhead bin competition is increasing, especially on full domestic routes.
U.S. Budget Airlines Carry-On Restrictions
Low-cost U.S. airlines separate “personal item” and “carry-on” tiers clearly.
Spirit Airlines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 18 x 10 inches
- Personal item: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
- Carry-on fee required
- Extremely strict enforcement
Frontier Airlines
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 18 x 10 inches
- Carry-on fee required
- Extremely strict enforcement
Allegiant Air
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 22 x 18 x 10 inches
- Carry-on fee required
- Extremely strict enforcement
These airlines routinely measure bags at the gate. Sizer checks are common. Fees increase at the airport compared to online pre-booking.
European Budget Airlines Carry-On Rules (2026)
European low-cost carriers operate differently from U.S. carriers.
The free bag allowance is often significantly smaller, and weight enforcement is more common.
Ryanair
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- Free small bag: 40 x 20 x 25 cm
- Paid cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
- Weight: 10kg (paid tier)
- Enforcement: Extremely strict
EasyJet
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- Free bag: 45 x 36 x 20 cm
- Larger bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm (paid)
- No official weight cap, but must lift unaided
- Strict size enforcement
Wizz Air
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- Free bag: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
- Paid bag: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
- Weight: 10kg
- Very strict enforcement
Key Differences vs U.S. Budget Airlines
- Smaller free allowances
- Tier-based upgrades determine bag size
- Weight enforcement is common
- Gate sizer checks are routine
If flying European budget airlines regularly, lightweight luggage and strict measurement compliance are critical.
International Legacy Airline Carry-On Rules
Full-service international carriers typically allow generous dimensions but enforce weight limits more consistently.
British Airways
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 56 x 45 x 25 cm
- 23kg total allowance
- Moderate enforcement
Lufthansa
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 56 x 45 x 25 cm
- 12kg limit
- Strict weight checks
Emirates
See full Ryanair carry-on size breakdown →
- 56 x 36 x 23 cm
- 12kg limit
- Moderate enforcement
Weight enforcement is more common in Europe and Asia than in North America.
Carry-On Fees by Airline (2026 Comparison)
Carry-on pricing varies significantly.
U.S. Legacy Airlines
- Carry-on included in most fares
- Basic Economy may restrict full-size carry-ons
U.S. Budget Airlines
- Online fee: $25–$50
- Airport fee: Higher
- Gate fee: Highest
European Budget Airlines
- Priority boarding often required for larger cabin bag
- Fees escalate rapidly at airport
- Free bag significantly smaller than U.S. standards
Booking carry-on allowances online during ticket purchase is almost always cheaper than paying at the airport.
How Airlines Use Carry-On Policies to Generate Revenue
Carry-on luggage size restrictions by airline are no longer purely about safety or storage. They are a structured part of airline revenue models.
Low-cost carriers in particular separate ticket pricing into components:
- Base fare
- Personal item allowance
- Cabin bag allowance
- Priority boarding
- Checked baggage
- Seat selection
This structure allows airlines to advertise low base fares while generating additional income through baggage-related fees.
Why Strict Enforcement Matters Financially
Strict enforcement ensures:
- Passengers cannot bypass paid tiers
- Boarding remains predictable
- Overhead bin space is controlled
- Revenue from ancillary fees remains consistent
If enforcement were inconsistent, travelers would gamble on oversized luggage and avoid paid upgrades.
Understanding this model explains why certain airlines measure nearly every bag at the gate.
Basic Economy and Carry-On Restrictions
Some airlines restrict carry-on privileges in Basic Economy fares.
For example:
- United Basic Economy: Personal item only (no overhead carry-on)
- Certain international fares: Tiered baggage allowances
Always verify fare type before assuming cabin bag access.
Carry-On vs Checked Bag: When Is It Actually Cheaper?
Choosing between a carry-on and a checked bag depends on airline type, fare class, and trip length.
Short Trips (1–3 Days)
On budget airlines:
- Maximizing your personal item may eliminate fees entirely.
- Paying for a cabin bag may not be necessary.
On legacy airlines:
- Carry-on is typically included.
- Checking a bag adds wait time at baggage claim.
Medium Trips (4–7 Days)
On low-cost carriers:
- Pre-booking a cabin bag online is almost always cheaper than paying at the airport.
- Sometimes a checked bag costs less than cabin priority upgrades.
On international airlines:
- Checked baggage may already be included in the fare.
Long Trips (8+ Days)
If weight limits are strict (7kg–10kg), packing efficiently in a cabin bag becomes difficult. In these cases, a checked bag may be more practical — and occasionally more economical.
Comparing baggage fees before booking can prevent unexpected costs later.
Personal Item Size Restrictions by Airline (2026)
Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Typical size range:
- 16–18 x 13–14 x 8 inches
- 40–45 x 30–35 x 20 cm
Common personal items:
- Backpack
- Laptop bag
- Compact duffel
- Small tote
Budget airlines rely heavily on personal item compliance. Maximizing this allowance strategically can eliminate the need for a paid carry-on.
Overhead Bin Space and Boarding Groups
Even if your bag meets airline carry-on size restrictions, you may still be required to gate-check if overhead bins are full.
Factors influencing bin availability:
- Boarding group priority
- Aircraft type
- Load factor (full vs partially full flight)
- Basic Economy restrictions
Arriving early and boarding sooner reduces gate-check risk.
Aircraft Type and Carry-On Space Differences
Not all aircraft have the same overhead bin capacity.
For example:
- Narrow-body aircraft (Boeing 737, Airbus A320) have limited bin space.
- Wide-body aircraft (Boeing 787, Airbus A350) generally provide larger bins.
- Regional jets may require gate-checking of standard carry-ons regardless of size compliance.
Even if your bag meets airline carry-on size restrictions, aircraft type can affect whether you keep it in the cabin.
On regional jets, bags may be “valet checked” and returned at the aircraft door.
Understanding aircraft type when booking can help anticipate cabin storage limitations.
How Strict Are Airlines About Carry-On Size?
Enforcement varies by airline type:
- European budget airlines: Consistently strict
- U.S. budget airlines: Extremely strict
- U.S. legacy airlines: Moderate
- International carriers: Weight-focused enforcement
Enforcement intensity increases on peak travel routes and full flights.
Carry-On Weight Limits by Airline
Weight enforcement is more common outside the U.S.
- U.S. airlines: Rarely weigh carry-ons
- European airlines: Frequently enforce 7kg–12kg limits
- Budget airlines: More likely to weigh heavy-looking bags
Choosing lightweight luggage under 7 lbs increases usable packing capacity.
International Connecting Flights and Carry-On Policy Conflicts
When flying connecting international routes, baggage rules can become complex.
Key considerations:
- The most restrictive airline in your itinerary may control baggage allowance.
- Weight limits may apply even if your first flight does not enforce them.
- Codeshare flights can create confusion about which policy applies.
Example:
A flight booked through a U.S. airline but operated by a European partner may enforce European weight limits.
Always verify the operating carrier’s policy — not just the booking airline.
What Happens If Your Carry-On Is Too Large?
If your bag fails the sizer:
- You may be required to pay a gate fee.
- Your bag may be checked.
- You lose access until baggage claim.
- Boarding may be delayed.
Fees typically range from $25–$75, but can exceed that on certain carriers.
Preparation prevents unnecessary costs.
How to Choose Carry-On Luggage That Always Meets Airline Size Restrictions
- Choose slightly undersized luggage (21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches).
- Avoid expandable sections when flying strict airlines.
- Stay below weight limits, especially in Europe.
- Use compression packing techniques.
- Consider high-capacity personal item bags for short trips.
Frequent budget airline travelers should prioritize personal item optimization over maximum cabin bag size.
Hard-Sided vs Soft-Sided Carry-On: Compliance Considerations
Choosing between hard-shell and soft-shell luggage affects compliance.
Hard-Sided Bags
- Maintain rigid dimensions.
- Do not compress.
- Must fit sizer precisely.
- More protective for electronics.
Soft-Sided Bags
- Compress slightly when placed in sizer.
- More forgiving if marginally oversized.
- Often lighter.
- Better for strict European carriers.
For frequent budget airline travelers, soft-sided carry-ons often provide more flexibility.
Common Carry-On Mistakes
- Assuming all 22 x 14 x 9 bags are identical.
- Ignoring weight limits.
- Overpacking expandable luggage.
- Not checking updated airline policy.
- Boarding late and losing overhead bin space.
- Confusing fare class baggage allowances.
Carry-On Compliance Checklist Before You Travel
Before heading to the airport:
- Measure your bag including wheels and handles.
- Weigh your luggage if flying internationally.
- Confirm your fare type (Basic Economy vs Standard).
- Check for recent policy updates.
- Pre-pay baggage fees online if required.
- Review personal item size limits carefully.
Five minutes of preparation can prevent last-minute fees or repacking at the gate.
FAQ
What is the standard carry-on luggage size limit?
Many airlines allow 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but limits vary by carrier.
What is the personal item size by airline?
Typically 18 x 14 x 8 inches, though stricter airlines allow less.
Are airlines strict about carry-on size restrictions?
Budget airlines are significantly stricter than legacy carriers.
Do carry-on weight limits vary by airline?
Yes. European airlines commonly enforce 7kg–12kg limits.
What happens if my carry-on is 1 inch too large?
You may be required to pay a gate fee or check the bag.
Can I bring both a carry-on and a personal item?
Most airlines allow both, but budget carriers often charge for the carry-on.
Do wheels count in carry-on measurements?
Yes. Airline carry-on size restrictions include wheels and handles.
Are diaper bags or medical bags free?
Many airlines allow medical or infant items separately, but policies vary.
Summary
Carry-on luggage size restrictions by airline are increasingly inconsistent in 2026.
The safest strategy is to:
- Choose slightly undersized luggage
- Verify your airline’s dimensions before departure
- Stay within weight limits, especially in Europe
- Understand enforcement practices
- Review your fare type carefully
Preparation prevents unexpected fees.
- Best Luggage for Budget Airlines
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under $100
- Spirit Underseat Bag Guide
- Pack Light Guide
- At least 1 airport pillar page
- Budget Travel Gear category
- Packing Guides category
- Airline Baggage Rules category page