Airline Carry-On Size Limits 2025: Complete Guide by Airline

Planning your next trip? Nothing ruins travel faster than discovering your carry-on doesn't fit at the gate. Airlines have different size requirements, and they change frequently. Here's your complete 2025 guide to staying compliant and avoiding those dreaded gate-check fees.

Why Carry-On Size Limits Matter

Airlines collect billions in baggage fees annually. Gate agents are trained to spot oversized bags, and the consequences are expensive:

• Gate check fees: $50-$100+
• Delayed boarding: Missing your flight
• Stress: Starting your trip frustrated

Major US Airlines Carry-On Limits

American Airlines

• Size: 22" x 14" x 9" (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
• Weight: No weight limit
• Personal item: 18" x 14" x 8"
• Enforcement: Strict at major hubs

Delta Air Lines

• Size: 22" x 14" x 9" (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
• Weight: No weight limit
• Personal item: Must fit under seat
• Enforcement: Varies by route

United Airlines

• Size: 22" x 14" x 9" (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
• Weight: No weight limit
• Personal item: 17" x 10" x 9"
• Enforcement: Strict on popular routes

Southwest Airlines

• Size: 24" x 16" x 10" (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
• Weight: No weight limit
• Personal item: 18.5" x 8.5" x 13.5"
• Pro tip: Most generous US carrier

International Airlines

European Carriers

• Lufthansa: 21.5" x 15.5" x 9" (55 x 40 x 23 cm)
• British Airways: 22" x 18" x 10" (56 x 45 x 25 cm)
• Air France: 21.5" x 13.5" x 9" (55 x 35 x 25 cm)

Asian Carriers

• Japan Airlines: 22" x 16" x 10" (56 x 41 x 25 cm)
• Singapore Airlines: 22" x 16" x 8" (56 x 41 x 20 cm)
• Korean Air: 21.5" x 15.5" x 7.5" (55 x 40 x 20 cm)

Budget Airlines (Stricter Rules!)

Spirit Airlines

• Size: 22" x 18" x 10" (56 x 46 x 25 cm)
• Weight: No limit
• Fee: $65+ if not pre-purchased

Frontier Airlines

• Size: 24" x 16" x 10" (61 x 41 x 25 cm)
• Weight: 35 lbs (16 kg)
• Fee: $99+ at gate

Ryanair (Europe)

• Size: 21.5" x 15.5" x 7.5" (55 x 40 x 20 cm)
• Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)
• Fee: €25-60 depending on route

Pro Tips for Avoiding Problems

1. Buy the Right Size Bag

Choose bags sized slightly under airline limits. A 21" bag will fit everywhere a 22" bag fits, but not vice versa.

2. Check Airline Policies Before Each Trip

Airlines change rules frequently. Always verify on their official website.

3. Pack Smart

• Wear heavy items (boots, jackets)
• Use compression cubes
• Leave room for souvenirs

4. Know Enforcement Patterns

• Stricter: Holiday travel, popular routes, full flights
• More lenient: Early morning flights, business travel routes

What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big?

1. Gate agent measures your bag

2. You're given options:

   • Gate check for fee ($50-100+)
   • Remove items and check separately
   • Miss your flight and rebook

3. No negotiation - policies are firm

The Perfect Carry-On Strategy

For Frequent Flyers

Invest in a high-quality 21" bag that works across all airlines. Popular options:

• Hard-shell for durability
• Four wheels for easy rolling
• TSA-approved locks

For Occasional Travelers

A soft-sided 20" bag offers more flexibility and easier storage.

Conclusion

Carry-on size limits vary significantly between airlines and routes. The safest strategy is choosing a bag that fits the most restrictive requirements you'll encounter. When in doubt, go smaller – the stress saved is worth the minor space trade-off.

Quick Reference: If you only remember one thing, stick to 21" x 13" x 8" and you'll fit 95% of airlines worldwide.

---

Last updated: June 2025. Always verify current policies on airline websites before travel.