Airline baggage policies are the most confusing part of travel planning, and understanding them before you book is essential. Every airline has different rules for carry-on size, personal item allowance, and baggage fees. What’s allowed on Ryanair might get you charged on Spirit Airlines. What fits in the overhead bin on one airline might be too large for another. These inconsistencies create confusion, stress, and unexpected fees at the airport.
The financial impact is significant. Airline baggage fees generate billions in revenue annually. In 2025, the average checked baggage fee was $30-$35 per bag, and overweight fees ranged from $50-$150. For a family of four taking a week-long vacation, unexpected baggage fees can add $200-$400 to your total travel cost. For frequent business travelers, these fees accumulate quickly, potentially costing thousands annually.
Beyond cost, understanding baggage rules directly affects how you pack and travel. Knowing your airline’s carry-on size limit (typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches for most carriers) helps you choose appropriate luggage. Knowing personal item policies (usually 18 x 14 x 8 inches) determines whether you can bring a backpack or underseat bag. Budget airlines enforce baggage policies more strictly than full-service carriers. Spirit Airlines, for example, charges $35-$50 for carry-on bags that don’t fit their strict 18 x 14 x 8 inch personal item limit. Ryanair charges €10-€20 for oversized carry-ons.
International flights have different baggage allowances than domestic flights. Transatlantic flights typically allow 2 checked bags plus a carry-on, while European budget airlines often include only a personal item in the base fare. Understanding these differences prevents costly surprises and allows you to plan strategically.
This comprehensive guide covers baggage policies for 50+ airlines, from budget carriers like Spirit and Ryanair to full-service airlines like American and United. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, budget or premium, we explain exactly what you can bring, how much it costs, and how to avoid overage fees. We update this guide regularly as airline policies change, ensuring you always have current information.
The key to stress-free travel is knowing your airline’s specific baggage policy before you arrive at the airport. Our detailed guides provide that information organized by carrier, flight type, and travel scenario. Explore our collection of airline-specific guides, comparison charts, and packing strategies to master baggage policies and travel with confidence.
Quick Answer In 2026, several airlines charge for carry-on luggage, particularly low-cost carriers in the U.S. and Europe. Airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and some fare classes on EasyJet require passengers to pay for standard cabin bags. Legacy airlines like Delta, American, United, British Airways, and Emirates typically include one carry-on … Read more
Quick Answer The best Ryanair cabin bag in 2026 depends on your fare type: • If flying without Priority, your bag must fit 40 x 20 x 25 cm.• If flying with Priority, you can bring a 55 x 40 x 20 cm cabin bag (max 10kg). The safest strategy is to choose a bag … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 Spirit Airlines personal item size rules in 2026 are strict, consistently enforced, and central to the airline’s low-cost business model. Unlike legacy carriers, Spirit charges for overhead carry-on bags. The only free allowance is one personal item — and it must fit precisely within specified dimensions. Understanding Spirit’s personal item size, … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 United Airlines carry-on size rules in 2026 are straightforward on paper — but Basic Economy restrictions and gate enforcement practices can cause confusion. Most passengers are allowed a full-size carry-on plus a personal item. However, certain Basic Economy tickets restrict overhead bin access unless you qualify through elite status or specific … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 EasyJet cabin bag rules in 2026 differ significantly from many other European airlines. While EasyJet allows one free cabin bag, the size of that free bag is smaller than the standard 22 x 14 x 9 inches used by many legacy carriers. Understanding EasyJet’s carry-on size limits, large cabin bag upgrades, … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 Wizz Air carry-on rules in 2026 are strict, clearly defined, and enforced consistently across European airports. Like other low-cost carriers, Wizz Air operates a tiered baggage system where the size of your free bag is significantly smaller than traditional carry-on dimensions. Understanding Wizz Air’s cabin bag policy — including free bag … Read more
Quick Verdict: Budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant have transformed the travel landscape, but their strict baggage policies demand a different approach to luggage selection. The best luggage for budget airlines isn’t about luxury or prestige—it’s about maximizing value within rigid constraints. Soft-sided carry-ons that compress to fit underseat dimensions, lightweight construction to avoid … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 Carry-on luggage is no longer universally free. In 2026, many airlines charge for overhead cabin bags, particularly ultra-low-cost carriers. Understanding airline carry-on fees before booking can save you $50–€80 per flight. This guide provides a 2026 airline carry-on fee comparison table, covering U.S. carriers, European budget airlines, and major international airlines … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 In 2026, airline carry-on rules are clearly defined — but enforcement varies dramatically depending on the airline, airport, route, and boarding conditions. Some airlines rarely measure bags.Others check nearly every passenger. If you’re wondering whether airlines really enforce carry-on size restrictions, the answer is: It depends on the carrier — and … Read more
Last updated: February 2026 Allegiant Air carry on size rules in 2026 require paid cabin bags to stay within 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while personal items must fit inside 16 x 15 x 7 inches. Allegiant is known for strict enforcement, especially at boarding gates. This complete guide explains Allegiant Air carry-on size … Read more