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Carry-on luggage size and weight limits by airline (2024).

Just like checked bags, carry-on luggage size restrictions can vary by airline.

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Key Takeaways

• The carry-on size limit for many airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• Most domestic airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.
• You can typically bring a carry-on bag in addition to a personal item.
• Your personal item should be able to fit neatly under the seat in front of you.

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item , you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Domestic Airlines

Alaska airlines, allegiant air, american airlines, delta air lines, frontier airlines, hawaiian airlines, southwest airlines, spirit airlines, sun country airlines, united airlines, international airlines, all nippon airways, british airways, cathay pacific, klm royal dutch airlines, qatar airways, scandinavian airlines, singapore airlines, turkish airlines, virgin atlantic.

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you must pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). This will change on Sept. 6, 2024, when JetBlue will begin offering one free carry-on bag to all Blue Basic customers, regardless of purchase date.

Currently, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only   take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

If you purchase an UltraBasic fare, you are limited to a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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Carry-On Luggage Size Chart for 64 Major Airlines [Dimensions, Sizes & More]

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Table of Contents

Carry-on luggage size chart for major airlines.

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Key Takeaways

• Carry-on size limits vary by airline. Most U.S. carriers allow bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but international limits can differ significantly.
• Many airlines have a rule about maximum linear dimensions. That means that when you add a piece of luggage’s length, width, and depth together, the sum can’t exceed a specific number.
• Checking specific airline policies before traveling is crucial to avoid unexpected fees or having to check your bags at the last minute.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, every airline has its carry-on luggage size restrictions. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so you need to check your airline’s specific policy before traveling to ensure your carry-on bag isn’t rejected with potential additional charges.

Below, you’ll find a helpful chart detailing the most popular airlines’ carry-on restrictions, including the size and weight of a standard carry-on, and whether this varies due to the cabin you’re traveling in. We’ve also covered checked luggage sizes and allowances , too.

Don’t forget that there are many ways to avoid paying for baggage fees such as carry-ons and that’s what we cover in our in-depth article.

Unless specified, the maximum weight allowance is across your standard carry-on luggage and personal item combined. 

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Home » Travel » Carry Baggage While Traveling to USA

Carrying Baggage While Traveling to the U.S.A.

Your purpose of travel to the U.S.A. will determine what you carry in your baggage. The needs of a person going to the U.S.A. as a short-term tourist may be different than those of a person going as a student or a temporary worker.

Unless you are traveling to the U.S.A. in the winter, you shouldn’t need to pack many winter clothes. It is best to buy winter clothes and jackets in the U.S.A. itself because most winter clothes from warm countries are not suitable for snow and ice.

You should carry a leather jacket, leather shoes, a leather belt, and a leather wallet (purse), as leather items are expensive in the U.S.A.

You should not carry heavy utensils, but you should carry a pressure cooker if you are going to the U.S. to stay there. Unless you absolutely need specialty spices, it is best to avoid carrying them. There are many ethnic grocery stores and restaurants all around the U.S.A., and such things are easily purchased.

The big bags that go through cargo are check-in baggage. Hand baggage (or carry-on luggage) is the small totes you carry with you at all times. Put a small sticker on your check-in baggage indicating your destination address and telephone number. If you lose your luggage at the airport, do not leave the terminal until you file a complaint with the authorities.

Check-In Baggage

Most airlines allow a total of two pieces of luggage free of charge for each ticketed passenger: one carry-on bag and one checked item. International airports determine luggage allowance and luggage charges (if applicable) based on weight and the number of pieces. Some airlines allow two checked bags. Most airlines allow two checked bags for business and first-class passengers. Check with your airline in advance for the most recent information about baggage.

You can check your big bags at check-in. At the time of check-in, airport staff will take these bags for transport and return them to you at your final destination. You will not see these bags anywhere in between. However, if you are taking a domestic flight after the international one, you may need to pick up your bags and recheck them at the domestic terminal. If your bags are not very strong, tie ropes so they can withstand rough handling.

Generally, total linear dimensions (length + height + width) of each checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches), and the weight of each bag must not exceed 23 kg (50 pounds). However, exact dimensions may vary with different airlines, so it is best to check with the airline in advance.

TSA-Approved Locks If you are locking your checked baggage, always use Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-approved/accepted luggage locks. TSA screens every passenger’s baggage before it is placed on the airplane. While technology allows them to electronically screen bags, there are times when TSA needs to physically inspect a piece of luggage. TSA has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal “master” keys so that the locks will not have to be cut. These locks are available at airports and travel stores worldwide. The packaging on the locks indicates whether they can be opened by TSA.

• https://www.safeskieslocks.com/
• https://www.travelsentry.org

Hand Baggage

You can carry one piece per person. You should have all the important visa documents you carried to the embassy/consulate because they might need them at immigration at the port of entry (arrival at the first international airport) in the U.S.A. Also, carry one set of clothing and other necessities, like a toothbrush, etc.

Each passenger is allowed one piece of carry-on luggage plus a briefcase/laptop computer bag/purse. In addition, each passenger may carry a coat, umbrella, cane, or other “special” item (see item listing below). Check all items you will not need during the flight. Medicine, keys, important papers, and travel documents (passports) should be carried on board by the passenger.

Carry-on luggage must fit underneath the passenger seat or in an overhead compartment. Maximum carry-on dimensions are 22″ x 14″ x 9″ (carry-on bags must fit in carry-on size box located at check-in counters). Some airlines enforce maximum carry-on weight, which varies by airline. Passengers traveling in first class, business class, or who have accumulated enough miles in their frequent flyer program (like gold members, silver members, etc.) may be allowed an extra carry-on item. This depends on the airline.

“Special” Items:

• Crutches, cane, brace, or other prosthesis on which passenger is dependent
• Collapsible manual wheelchair
• One stroller
• Infant car seat
• Infant diaper bag
• Two golf clubs (if approved storage space is available)
• Reading material
• Two-wheeled luggage cart (cart and bag must fit under seat or in overhead bin)

Infants not entitled to a seat are allowed one checked bag with total linear dimensions not exceeding 115 cm (45 inches), plus one checked or carry-on fully collapsible stroller or push chair, an infant’s carrying basket, or car seat that may be stored in the passenger cabin (subject to availability of space).

Disabled Passengers

Disabled passengers are allowed one fully collapsible wheelchair and/or crutches, canes, braces, and other prosthetic devices without charge over and above the free baggage allowance, provided the passenger is dependent on them. Fully collapsible wheelchairs may be stored in the passenger cabin if space permits and at the complete discretion of the airline at the time of check-in. Collapsible wheelchairs not permitted in the passenger cabin will be carried in the baggage holds.

Miscellaneous Articles

The following articles, regardless of their actual dimensions, may be considered a piece of checked baggage at 158 cm (62 inches):

• One sleeping bag or bedroll
• One rucksack, knapsack, or backpack
• One pair of snow skis with one pair of ski poles and one pair of ski boots, or one snowboard and boots
• One golf bag containing golf clubs and one pair of golf shoes
• One duffel-type bag or a soft-sided zippered bag with zippered side panel (IATA Type 22)
• One suitably packed bicycle (single seat, non-motorized touring or racing type) with handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed
• One pair of standard water skis or one slalom water ski
• Suitably packed fishing equipment consisting of not more than two rods, reel, one landing net, one pair of fishing boots, and one fishing tackle box
• One portable musical instrument not exceeding 100 cm (39 inches) in length

Check the U.S. Customs website for details regarding what you can and can’t bring to the U.S.

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

Here's your cheat sheet for carry-on size limits.

The vacation countdown is almost over, and it's time to get packing. Though airlines' luggage rules vary depending on what region of the world you're heading to or from, the size limit for carry-on luggage size remains consistent across the majority of airlines.

Sure, you might occasionally be able to sneak onboard with a bag that's a bit oversized or overweight, but airlines can be strict about carry-on size, so it's always smarter to plan ahead. Choosing the best carry-on luggage to fit the fine print will make for less travel stress. Here's what size suitcase to bring on your next trip — no bargaining, pleading, or, worst of all, last-minute checking required.

What size is carry-on luggage?

Though you might find an inch or two of a difference with various airlines, the size limit for carry-on luggage is 22" x 14" x 9", which includes the handle and the wheels. A few domestic airlines, such as Frontier and Southwest, will allow 24-inch luggage as a carry-on. This size limit ensures your bag — and ideally everyone else's — will fit in the overhead bin for your flight. The biggest benefit by far of traveling with carry-on luggage only is being able to go right off the plane and to your destination, without waiting for a checked bag.

What is the weight limit for carry-on luggage?

For many major domestic airlines — Delta, Southwest, JetBlue — there are no weight restrictions for carry-on bags. You'll just have to be able to lift it above your head into the storage bin. And in most cases, even if airlines do list a specific pound or kilogram limit on their websites, they likely won't weigh your carry-on bags. As long as your pack doesn't appear to be overstuffed, you're probably OK. Weight is much more important for small commuter planes, mostly due to safety regulations, and on low-cost international carriers like Easyjet and Ryanair.

T+L Backpack Recommendation Quiz

Packing tip.

Looking to create even more room in your carry-on? Try using vacuum-sealed storage bags — you can buy them on Amazon.

What is a personal item?

In addition to your carry-on suitcase, many airlines also allow a personal item. This can be a laptop bag , a purse, a briefcase, a beach bag — whatever you like, as long as it is generally small. Personal item restrictions vary by airline, and some choose not to include any specifics at all. In those cases, the general rule of thumb is an item that can fit under the seat in front of you.

The difference between carry-on luggage and a personal item is size: a diaper bag, for example, is generally a personal item. A travel stroller is a carry-on. Depending on the size, an instrument is either a personal item or a carry-on. A garment bag is generally a carry-on because it's unlikely to fit under the seat, but many airlines will let you through with a small suitcase and a garment bag. When in doubt, check with the airline in advance.

What is the best carry-on luggage?

Everyone has a different opinion on the best luggage brands , but the best carry-on suitcase for you is ultimately the one that suits your needs as a traveler. If you're constantly on the road, invest in a durable bag that can keep up. If you take one or two vacations a year, you can go with something more affordable. Whether you prefer a softside option like duffel bags or hardside luggage, two-wheel rollaboards, or a hassle-free backpack , there are options from legacy brands like Samsonite and smaller brands such as July. Before you buy, note the dimensions of a bag and the carry-on restrictions of the airlines you most often fly to be sure your bag will fit.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

What you pack in your carry-on bag is regulated, as well. In addition to the same rules that apply to checked bags, which prohibit firearms, lithium batteries, and other potentially hazardous items, you cannot bring containers of liquid, paste, aerosol, gel, or cream larger than 3.4 ounces through security and they need to fit in a one-quart zip-top bag. This is the regulation in the U.S., regardless of your destination, but there are more generous rules for things like baby food, medicine, and breast milk. Make sure to check the specific rules of your carrier, too, so you won't be forced to throw anything away at the gate.

What is the standard international carry-on size?

Internationally, most smaller, regional airlines or budget airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair will accept a suitcase that's 22" high and 14" wide — including the handle and wheels — though you may have to pay to bring this onboard. However, some local airlines have tighter limits of 21" or even less, so, if you're going to be traveling on small planes or frequently flying a carrier with stricter requirements, go for a smaller carry-on bag. This ensures your bag is accepted on all carriers and you won't have to pay hefty last-minute checked bag fees.

Keep reading for some more airline-specific information.

Alaska Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: Not specified
• Personal item: One personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag

Allegiant Air

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''; fee applies ($15-75 depending on when reserved)
• Personal item: 14 x 18 x 8"

When booking with a budget airline, it's imperative to read the fine print. In most cases, when the low fare seems like a steal, traveling light is the only way to keep it that way. With Allegiant, your personal item is free, but there's a fee for your carry-on.

American Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9"
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''; must fit under the seat in front of you

American Airlines' fares include both a carry-on and personal item, even in Basic Economy.

Delta Air Lines

• Personal item: One purse, briefcase, camera bag, or diaper bag

There are three exceptions for the weight limit:

Singapore, Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN): 15 pounds or 7 kg

Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 22 pounds or 10 kg for domestic travel

Shanghai, Pudong International Airport (PVG): 22 pounds or 10 kg

Frontier Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 24'' x 16'' x 10''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 35 pounds
• Personal item: 8'' x 18'' x 14''

Hawaiian Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 45 linear inches
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 25 pounds
• Personal item: One purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or similar piece; must fit under the seat in front of you
• Carry-on luggage weight: None specified
• Personal item: 17'' x 13'' x 8''

There's a reason JetBlue has such a cult following: not only does it give guests more legroom, but it alleviates a bit of the carry-on luggage size limit stress, too. Though the carry-on size restrictions are the same as most airlines, the personal item dimensions are larger.

Southwest Airlines

• Personal item: None specified by generally no larger than 18.5'' x 8.5'' x 13.5''; must fit under the seat in front of you

Another generous airline, Southwest's personal item and carry-on size limits are spacier than most.

Spirit Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 18'' x 10''
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''

United Airlines

• Personal item: 17'' x 10'' x 9''; must fit in the seat in front of you

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