The Ultimate Carry-On Luggage Size Guide

Airline carry-on size limits are generally 22 x 14 x 9 inches for domestic flights or 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches for international flights, but it’s a good idea to check with your specific airline.

Jakob Thygerson

By Jakob Thygerson

Jakob Thygerson is an outdoor adventure seeker, engineer and unrepentant gearhead with a background in product design.

Why you can trust TravelFreak
  • 15+ years of travel experience
  • 550+ products tested
  • 40+ countries visited

We hold ourselves to a rigorous editorial standard. Financial incentives don’t sway our recommendations—experience and data do.

Read Our Editorial Policy

The easiest way to avoid a hassle at check-in is to double-check the airline carry-on size limits before you start packing (or better yet, before you buy your luggage).

I researched the carry-on and personal item size limits for 175 domestic and international airlines to compile the ultimate guide to carry-on luggage size limits. This is the most comprehensive list of carry-on size limits on the web.

The general guideline is that carry-ons need to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches for domestic flights, or 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 for international flights. However, every airline sets its own luggage restrictions, and those restrictions vary quite widely.

That’s why it’s important to research the rules for the specific airlines you’re flying with. I wrote this guide to be a straightforward resource where you can easily find the size restrictions for different airlines.

What to Know About Carry-On Luggage Sizing

Carry-On Luggage Sizing

Carry-on luggage is a smaller piece of luggage that you can take with you on a plane. Because it has to fit in the overhead bin, carry-on luggage is smaller than checked luggage and must fit within specific size restrictions set by airlines.

A carry-on bag can be a suitcase, duffel bag, backpack, or even an instrument case, but no matter what it looks like, it has to fit within the size limits.

If you shop around for carry-on luggage, you’ll notice some suitcases marketed as “domestic carry-ons” and some marketed as “international carry-ons.” The difference here is all in the sizing.

For carry-on baggage on domestic flights within the United States, the typical size limit is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches for carry-on bags and 18 x 14 x 8 inches, but some US airlines have larger or smaller limits.

If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll want to pay a bit closer attention to the size of your carry-on. International airlines tend to be stricter. Standard carry-on sizes are usually around 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches, and personal items are most often limited to 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 inches.

When in doubt, I recommend getting a suitcase that’s sized to work for both US and international flights. That way your bag is future-proofed for any trips you may take.

For most people, a carry-on bag is large enough to pack for 3-5 days, but if you pack light, a carry-on can easily be enough for longer-term one-bag travel.

The majority of domestic and international airlines will let you bring one carry-on bag and one smaller personal item onboard without extra fees. However, some budget airlines charge you a fee for a carry-on.

What to Know About Personal Item Sizing

Personal Item Size

When you fly, you’ll usually be allowed to bring along one personal item alongside your carry-on luggage. Your personal item can be a smaller bag like a purse, briefcase, or small travel daypack that needs to fit under the seat in front of you.

Unlike carry-on bags, which stay in the overhead bin, personal items are designed to be kept within easy reach. Think of it as a place to keep essentials you need access to during the flight.

Because of that, personal item size limits are typically much smaller than carry-on limits. Within the US, most airlines limit personal items to 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Outside the US, personal item size limits are usually much smaller, and they vary widely. The most common international personal item size is 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 inches.

I’ve managed to pack for week-long trips with just a personal item before (when I was flying with an ultra-budget airline that charged for carry-ons), but it was a tight squeeze.

Keep in mind that each airline has different size restrictions for personal items, so it’s important to check the guidelines of the airline you’re flying with.

Why Is Choosing the Right Carry-On Size Important?

Right Carry-On Size

The main reason to make sure your carry-on luggage is the right size is to avoid any check-in surprises. Airlines have specific size restrictions for carry-on luggage, and if your bag exceeds these limits, you may be required to check it in at the gate.

This usually costs extra and can be a major hassle, especially if you packed items in your carry-on that you need access to in route.

In addition, choosing the right size for your carry-on is crucial for ensuring that your luggage fits perfectly in the overhead compartment. That’s the whole point of the restrictions in the first place!

Even if you make it onto the plane with a too-big bag, you don’t want to be the person blocking the aisle as you try to jam your suitcase into the overhead bin.

Just because you’ve used your carry-on before without any issues doesn’t guarantee it will work on every flight with every airline.

Carry-On Size Limits By Airline

Carry-On Size Limit by Airline

Most airlines have precise limits on how large your carry-on luggage can be. These limits vary from one airline to another, so it’s not as simple as buying a suitcase that’s advertised as carry-on compliant.

Just because a bag is marketed as a domestic carry-on doesn’t mean it absolutely fits on all US domestic flights, and just because it’s marketed as an international carry-on certainly doesn’t mean it will fit on any flight around the world.

The only way to be sure is to compare the dimensions of your luggage with the published size restrictions for the specific airline you’ll be flying with.

When measuring your carry-on luggage, remember that size limits include the handles, wheels, and any other component that sticks out from the main body of the suitcase. If you ignore those extra parts sticking out, you might find yourself with a bag that is too big and won’t be allowed on board.

The table below shows the carry-on and personal item size limits for 175 airlines from around the world.

Airline Carry-On Size Limit Personal Item Size Limit
Aegean Airlines 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 7.8" x 9.8" (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
Aer Lingus 18.9" x 13.0" x 7.9" (48 x 33 x 20 cm) 10" x 13" x 8" (25 x 33 x 20 cm)
Aeroflot 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 12" x 16" x 4" (30 x 40 x 10 cm)
Aerolineas Argentinas 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Aeromexico 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 21.5" x 15.7" x 10" (55 x 40 x 25 cm)
Air Asia 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Astana 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Air Baltic 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Canada 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 17" x 13" x 6" (43 x 33 x 15 cm)
Air Caraibes 17.7" x 13.8" x 7.9" (45 x 35 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air China 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 12" x 16" x 4" (30 x 40 x 10 cm)
Air Europa 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air France 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.8" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air India 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 10" x 14" x 6" (25 x 35 x 15 cm)
Air Macau 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Malta 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Air New Zealand 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 9" x 10" x 17" (22 x 25 x 43 cm)
Air Niugini 20.0" x 12.0" x 8.0" (51 x 30 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Nostrum 17.7" x 13.8" x 7.9" (45 x 35 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Serbia 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Seychelles 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Tahiti 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Air Transat 20.1" x 15.7" x 9.1" (51 x 40 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
AirAsiaX 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Aircalin 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Airlink 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Alaska Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 17" x 13" x 9" (43 x 33 x 23 cm)
Allegiant Air 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 16" x 15" x 7" (40 x 38 x 18 cm)
American Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 18" x 14" x 8" (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
ANA 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Asiana Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Austrian 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Avianca 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 14" x 10" x 8" (35 x 25 x 20 cm)
Azerbaijan Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 8.0" (56 x 36 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Azul 22.0" x 14.0" x 10.0" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Bahamasair 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Bangkok Airways 19.7" x 14.2" x 9.1" (50 x 36 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Batik Air 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Beijing Capital Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Belavia 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Biman Bangladesh 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Binter Canarias 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Blue Air 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Boliviana de Aviacion 11.8" x 9.8" x 7.9" (30 x 25 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
British Airways 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Bulgaria Air 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Cambodia Angkor Air 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Cathay Pacific 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Cayman Airways 24.0" x 16.0" x 11.0" (61 x 41 x 28 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Cebu Pacific 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Chengdu Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
China Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
China Eastern 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
China United Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Citilink 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
CommutAir 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Conviasa 24.0" x 14.6" x 9.8" (61 x 37 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Copa Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 10.0" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Croatia Air 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Czech Airlines 21.7" x 17.7" x 9.8" (55 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Delta Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 18" x 14" x 8" (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
easyJet 17.7" x 14.2" x 7.9" (45 x 36 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
EL AL 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Emirates Airlines 21.7" x 15.0" x 7.9" (55 x 38 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Enter Air 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Ethiopian Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Etihad Airways 22.0" x 16.0" x 10.0" (56 x 41 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Eurowings 15.7" x 11.8" x 9.8" (40 x 30 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
EVA Air 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Fiji Airways 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Finnair 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Flybe 22.0" x 14.0" x 8.0" (56 x 36 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
flydubai 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Flynas 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Frontier Airlines 24.0" x 16.0" x 10.0" (61 x 41 x 25 cm) 18" x 14" x 8" (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Garuda Indonesia 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Gestair 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Gol 22.0" x 14.0" x 10.0" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Gulf Air 17.7" x 15.7" x 11.8" (45 x 40 x 30 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Hainan Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Hawaiian Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 17" x 13" x 9" (43 x 33 x 23 cm)
Hong Kong Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Horizon Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Iberia 22.0" x 15.7" x 9.8" (56 x 40 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Icelandair 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Indigo 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Iran Air 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Island Air 22.0" x 13.8" x 9.1" (56 x 35 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
ITA Airways 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Japan Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (55 x 40 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Jet2 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
JetBlue Airways 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 17" x 13" x 8" (43 x 33 x 20 cm)
Jetstar Airways 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Juneyao Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Kenya Airways 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
KLM 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Kulula 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Kuwait Air 22.0" x 18.1" x 9.8" (56 x 46 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
LATAM 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Liat Airlines 21.0" x 14.0" x 8.0" (53 x 36 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Linea Aerea Amaszonas 12.0" x 11.0" x 8.0" (30 x 28 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Lion Air Group 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Loong Air 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
LOT Polish 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Lucky Air 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Lufthansa 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Luxair 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Mahan Air 22.0" x 16.0" x 9.0" (56 x 41 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Malaysia Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Mango 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Mesa Airlines 19.0" x 15.0" x 11.0" (48 x 38 x 28 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Middle East Airlines 22.0" x 15.7" x 9.8" (56 x 40 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Norse Atlantic Airways 22.0" x 18.0" x 10.0" (56 x 46 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Norwegian 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Oman Air 20.0" x 16.0" x 10.0" (51 x 41 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Onur Air 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Pakistan International 21.7" x 15.0" x 8.7" (55 x 38 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Peach 19.7" x 15.7" x 9.8" (50 x 40 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Pegasus Airlines 22.0" x 18.0" x 10.0" (55 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Philippine Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Porter Airlines 16.9" x 13.0" x 6.3" (43 x 33 x 16 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Qantas Airways 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Qatar Airways 20.0" x 15.0" x 10.0" (51 x 38 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Ravn Alaska 16.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (41 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Regional Express 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Royal Brunei Airlines 21.7" x 15.0" x 7.9" (55 x 38 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Royal Jordanian 20.1" x 16.1" x 9.1" (51 x 41 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Ryanair 15.7" x 9.8" x 7.9" (40 x 25 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 7.9" x 9.8" (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
S7 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
SAS Scandinavian 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 16" x 12" x 6" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Scoot 21.3" x 15.0" x 9.1" (54 x 38 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Shandong Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Shanghai Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Shenzhen Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Sichuan Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Singapore Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Sky Airlines 17.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (45 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
South African Airways 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Southern Airways Express 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Southwest Airlines 24.0" x 16.0" x 10.0" (61 x 41 x 25 cm) 18" x 14" x 8" (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Spirit Airlines 22.0" x 18.0" x 10.0" (56 x 46 x 25 cm) 18" x 14" x 8" (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
Spring Airlines 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
SriLankan Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Sun Country 17.0" x 13.0" x 9.0" (43 x 33 x 23 cm) 17" x 13" x 9" (43 x 33 x 23 cm)
Sun Express 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Super Air Jet 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Swiss Int'l Air Lines 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
TAAG Angola 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
TAP Portugal 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
TAROM 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Thai Airways 22.0" x 17.7" x 9.8" (56 x 45 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Thomson Airways 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Tianjin Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Transavia Airlines 21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (55 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Turkish Airlines 21.7" x 15.7" x 9.1" (55 x 40 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Turkmenistan Airlines 17.7" x 13.8" x 5.9" (45 x 35 x 15 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Ukraine International 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
United Airlines 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 17" x 10" x 9" (43 x 25 x 23 cm)
Ural Airlines 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Utair Airlines 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Uzbekistan Air 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Vietjet Air 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.0" (55 x 35 x 22 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Vietnam Airlines 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
Virgin Atlantic 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Virgin Australia 22.0" x 14.2" x 9.1" (56 x 36 x 23 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Vistara 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Viva Aerobus 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
VivaColombia 15.7" x 13.8" x 9.8" (40 x 35 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Volaris 18.0" x 14.0" x 8.0" (46 x 36 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Volotea 21.7" x 15.7" x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Vueling 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
WestJet 20.9" x 15.0" x 9.1" (53 x 38 x 23 cm) 16" x 13" x 6" (41 x 33 x 15 cm)
Widerøe 22.0" x 16.0" x 8.0" (55 x 40 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Wizz Air 15.7" x 11.8" x 7.9" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Xiamen 21.5" x 13.5" x 10.0" (55 x 34 x 25 cm) 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" (40 x 30 x 15 cm)

What Can You Pack in Your Carry-On Bags?

Pack Carry-On Bag

Getting the right-sized suitcase or bag is just the first step in making sure you’re carry-on legal. You also need to know what you’re allowed to pack in your carry-on so you don’t get stopped at security for having a prohibited item.

Prohibited Items for Carry-On

The TSA has a long list of items that are not allowed in carry-on bags or on your person during a flight. This includes any weapons or anything that could be used as a weapon as well as flammable or toxic substances.

The list below includes common items that are not allowed in your carry-on, but it is by no means exhaustive. Always stay up-to-date with the latest TSA guidelines. When in doubt, it never hurts to take a moment to double check.

  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Knives and scissors
  • Liquids more than 3.4 oz per container
  • Sporting equipment (e.g., baseball bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks)
  • Self-defense items (e.g., pepper spray, tasers)
  • Tools (e.g., hammers, screwdrivers longer than 7 inches, wrenches)
  • Large quantities of liquids (e.g., beverages, shampoos, conditioners over 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters)
  • Flammable items (e.g., lighter fluid, fireworks, flares)
  • Aerosol cans (except for limited amounts of personal care items)
  • Certain chemicals and toxic substances (e.g., bleach, paint thinner)

Batteries and Electronics

Your carry-on luggage is the best place for electronic devices and batteries. In fact, lithium batteries—which are found in most phones, laptops, and other portable devices—are not allowed in checked luggage. You have to carry them on.

Make sure your devices are packed securely in your bag where they won’t get damaged. You also want them to be easily accessible, since you usually have to pull out any device larger than a phone to go through security.

I recommend using a well-designed laptop backpack or bag to make sure your expensive laptop is both safe and within easy reach.

Restrictions on Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols

The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule is a key important guideline for packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on bags. Don’t worry, it’s not too complicated!

Each passenger is allowed to bring a quart-sized plastic bag of liquids, and each container in the bag should be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. So, pack your shampoos, conditioners, toothpaste, and lotions with these limits in mind.

Carry-On Luggage Size FAQs

Can 24-inch luggage be a carry-on?

A few airlines, like Frontier, allow 24-inch carry-on luggage, but most international airlines do not.

What is the TSA-approved carry-on size?

Carry-on size limits vary by airline. The most common limits are 22 x 14 x 9 inches for domestic flights, or 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 for international flights.

What if my carry-on is 1 inch too big?

Some airlines are pretty lenient on carry-on size, but even if your bag is only 1 inch too big, the airline can make you pay to check it.

What is the most strict carry-on size?

LATAM Airlines has one of the strictest carry-on size limits: 21.6 x 13.7 x 9 inches.

Will United allow a 24 inch carry-on?

No, United Airlines requires carry-ons to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

Jakob Thygerson
About the Author

Jakob Thygerson

Jakob Thygerson is an outdoor adventure seeker who collects sunburns, National Park maps, and trail miles. He loves anything that gets him outdoors, whether it’s on foot, on skis, on a bike, or on the open road. A native of the Mountain West, he’s most at home in mountains and deserts with clear air and bright stars. He has a background as a product design engineer and knows the ins and outs of materials, design, and manufacturing processes. He loves using this knowledge to analyze outdoor equipment and is an unrepentant gearhead.
More Articles »

You might also like…

20 Expert Packing Tips for Stress-Free Travel
Packing TipsJan 22, 2025

20 Expert Packing Tips for Stress-Free Travel

Use proven strategies to pack efficiently and travel stress-free. Learn expert tips on using packing cubes, choosing the right luggage, and more.

Read More »
How To Clean a Suitcase: Tips to Make Your Luggage Look Like New
Packing TipsSep 23, 2024

How To Clean a Suitcase: Tips to Make Your Luggage Look Like New

Having the right approach, the right supplies, and a healthy amount of patience goes a long way toward making your grimy suitcase look like new.

Read More »
Carry-On vs. Personal Item: What’s the Difference?
Packing TipsOct 10, 2024

What's the Difference Between a Carry-On and a Personal Item?

Carry-on luggage gets stowed away in the overhead compartment, while a personal item is a smaller bag that stays under the seat in front of you.

Read More »
How To Measure Luggage: A Step-By-Step Guide
Packing TipsSep 23, 2024

How To Measure Luggage: A Step-By-Step Guide

Measuring your luggage beforehand is the best way to be sure your bags fit the airline limits. It isn’t even that hard.

Read More »
The One Simple Secret to Traveling Light. And It’s Easier Than You Think
Packing TipsJul 26, 2024

The One Simple Secret to Traveling Light. And It’s Easier Than You Think

The secret to traveling light is simple: ditch the giant suitcase for a carry-on backpack. Then, pack smart to make the most of the smaller space.

Read More »
The Ultimate Guide to Carry-On Weight Limits
Packing TipsOct 7, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Carry-On Weight Limits

Weight limits for carry-on luggage can range from 11 to 40 lbs, depending on the airline. Do your homework to make sure your bag isn’t overweight.

Read More »
How to Pack a Suitcase Efficiently for Your Next Trip
Packing TipsSep 23, 2024

How to Pack a Suitcase Efficiently for Your Next Trip

Using packing cubes, stuffing socks inside your shoes, and simply bringing less stuff are a few of the packing techniques get the most out of the space in your suitcase.

Read More »
Is a Backpack a Personal Item?
Packing TipsSep 23, 2024

Is a Backpack a Personal Item?

Backpacks are popular with frequent travelers for their hands-free convenience, but is a backpack a personal item? The long answer is more complicated.

Read More »
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.