Airline Carry-on Luggage Size Restrictions 2025: What You Need to Know

Q: 1. What is the standard carry-on luggage size for U.S. airlines?

Most U.S. airlines follow a standard carry-on size of 22" x 14" x 9" , including handles and wheels. However, some airlines, like Southwest and Frontier, allow slightly larger dimensions.

Q: 2. Are there any weight limits for carry-on bags?

For major U.S. airlines like Delta, American, and United , there are generally no specific weight limits for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead compartment yourself.

Q: 4. Has Southwest Airlines changed its baggage policy?

Yes. Starting May 28, 2025 , Southwest Airlines will only offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare passengers. A-List Members and select customers will get one free checked bag. Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers can receive a credit for one checked bag. Other passengers will need to pay for their checked bags.

Q: 5. Are there any promotions available for free checked bags?

Yes! Frontier Airlines is offering a special promotion for passengers booking nonstop flights departing between May 28 and August 18, 2025 . Use promo code FREEBAG at checkout to get a complimentary checked bag with their economy bundle , which also includes a free carry-on, seat selection, and flight changes. Book by March 24, 2025 , to take advantage of this offer.

Everything you need to know about carry-on luggage size restrictions in 2025, the standard size limit for carry-on luggage remains fairly consistent across most U.S. airlines.

The countdown to your trip is almost over, and it’s time to pack. While airline policies may vary, the standard size limit for carry-on luggage remains fairly consistent across most U.S. airlines.

Airlines are becoming stricter about enforcing baggage rules, so choosing the right carry-on will help you avoid extra fees and travel stress. Here’s everything you need to know about carry-on size restrictions in 2025.

Table of Contents

What Size is Carry-on Luggage in 2025?

The standard carry-on luggage size for most U.S. airlines is:
📏 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (including wheels and handles).

However, some airlines allow larger sizes, such as:

Southwest Airlines: 24″ x 16″ x 10″
Frontier Airlines: 24″ x 16″ x 10″
Spirit Airlines: 22″ x 18″ x 10″

This ensures that your bag fits in the overhead bin without needing to be checked at the gate.

Carry-on Size Chart for Major U.S. Airlines

Airline	Carry-on Size	Weight Limit	Personal Item Size
Alaska Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	No weight limit	Must fit under seat
American Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	No weight limit	18″ x 14″ x 8″
Delta Air Lines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	No weight limit	Purse, briefcase, small bag
Frontier Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″	35 lbs max	18″ x 14″ x 8″
Hawaiian Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	25 lbs max	Small bag or backpack
JetBlue	22″ x 14″ x 9″	No weight limit	17″ x 13″ x 8″
Southwest Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″	No weight limit	No official size, must fit under seat
Spirit Airlines	22″ x 18″ x 10″	No weight limit	18″ x 14″ x 8″
United Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″	No weight limit	17″ x 10″ x 9″

🔴 Important Note: Basic Economy fares on some airlines (United, American, and JetBlue) do not include a free carry-on—you may need to pay extra or check your bag.

What is the Weight Limit for Carry-on Luggage?

Most major U.S. airlines do not have a strict weight limit for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bin yourself.

Exceptions:

Frontier Airlines: 35 lbs max
Hawaiian Airlines: 25 lbs max

💡 Packing Tip: Want to fit more in your carry-on? Use vacuum-sealed storage bags to save space.

What is a Personal Item?

In addition to your carry-on, airlines allow one personal item, such as:
✔️ A laptop bag, purse, small backpack, or briefcase
✔️ A diaper bag (usually allowed in addition to a personal item)

Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. If it’s too large, you may have to check it.

New Carry-on Restrictions for 2025

1. Southern Airlines’ Updated Carry-on Policy

Southern Airlines has announced stricter carry-on rules for 2025:

Southwest Airlines is revamping its baggage policy, ending its long-standing tradition of offering two free checked bags to all passengers.

Effective May 28, 2025, only Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare passengers will still enjoy the benefit of two free checked bags.

A-List Members and select customers will receive one free checked bag, while Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will be eligible for a credit covering one checked bag. All other passengers will now face fees for both their first and second checked bags, with existing weight and size restrictions remaining in effect.

Know more about this….

2. Stricter Oversized Bag Enforcement

Several airlines, including United, American, and Delta, have increased checks on oversized carry-ons at the gate. If your bag doesn’t fit in the size checker, you’ll be required to check it for a fee (usually $30-$50).

3. Southwest Airlines Changes Personal Item Policy

Southwest has clarified personal item restrictions:

Personal items must fit entirely under the seat.
Backpacks larger than 18.5” x 8.5” x 13.5” may not qualify as personal items.

Frontier Airline Deal:

Following Southwest’s recent baggage policy changes, Frontier Airlines is offering a limited-time deal that includes a free checked bag.

Customers booking nonstop flights through August 18 will receive a complimentary checked bag as part of the airline’s economy bundle, which also covers a free carry-on, seat selection, and flight changes.

The offer applies to flights departing between May 28 and August 18 when using the promo code FREEBAG at checkout. Travelers must book by March 24 to take advantage of this promotion.

Know More…..

What is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Carry-on bags must follow TSA and airline regulations. Prohibited items include:
❌ Liquids over 3.4 oz (100 mL) (must be in a quart-size bag).
❌ Sharp objects, firearms, and hazardous materials.
❌ Large lithium-ion batteries over 100Wh.

✅ Exceptions: Baby formula, breast milk, and medications can exceed the 3.4 oz limit but must go through additional security screening.

Best Carry-on Luggage for 2025

Choosing the right carry-on bag depends on your travel needs. Here are some of the top-rated carry-ons for 2025:

Amazon Basics Luugage –My first luggage from online purchase, Read full review here.

🧳 Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX – Durable hardside luggage, perfect for frequent travelers.
🎒 Nomatic Carry-on Pro – Tech-friendly, expandable design for digital nomads.
✈️ July Carry-on Light – Ultra-lightweight, ideal for budget airlines with strict weight limits.

💡 Before you buy: Always check airline restrictions to ensure your bag meets the latest size limits.

1. What is the standard carry-on luggage size for U.S. airlines?

Most U.S. airlines follow a standard carry-on size of 22″ x 14″ x 9″, including handles and wheels. However, some airlines, like Southwest and Frontier, allow slightly larger dimensions.

2. Are there any weight limits for carry-on bags?

For major U.S. airlines like Delta, American, and United, there are generally no specific weight limits for carry-on bags, but you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead compartment yourself.

3. What is considered a personal item?

A personal item is a smaller bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include:
Laptop bags
Purses
Small backpacks
Diaper bags
Personal item size restrictions vary, but a common limit is around 18″ x 14″ x 8″.

4. Has Southwest Airlines changed its baggage policy?

Yes. Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines will only offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare passengers.
A-List Members and select customers will get one free checked bag.
Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers can receive a credit for one checked bag.
Other passengers will need to pay for their checked bags.

5. Are there any promotions available for free checked bags?

Yes! Frontier Airlines is offering a special promotion for passengers booking nonstop flights departing between May 28 and August 18, 2025.
Use promo code FREEBAG at checkout to get a complimentary checked bag with their economy bundle, which also includes a free carry-on, seat selection, and flight changes.
Book by March 24, 2025, to take advantage of this offer.

6. What happens if my carry-on is oversized?

If your carry-on exceeds the airline’s size restrictions, you’ll likely be required to check it at the gate. Additional fees may apply, depending on the airline’s policy.

7. Can I bring both a carry-on and a personal item?

Most U.S. airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. Be sure to check the airline’s specific policy, especially when flying with budget carriers.

8. Are there special rules for international carry-on luggage?

Yes, international carriers often have stricter carry-on size and weight limits compared to U.S. airlines. If you’re connecting to a domestic flight from an international trip, ensure your carry-on complies with both airlines’ regulations.

Need further clarification? It’s always best to check your airline’s website before traveling to avoid unexpected fees or complications. Safe travels!

Final Travel Tips for 2025

✔️ Measure your bag before heading to the airport.
✔️ Weigh your carry-on if flying Frontier, Hawaiian, or Southern Airlines.
✔️ Arrive early to avoid last-minute repacking at the gate.
✔️ Check your airline’s website for any last-minute policy changes.

By staying updated on airline carry-on rules, you can avoid extra fees and enjoy a stress-free trip in 2025! 🚀✈️

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