
When it comes to air travel, baggage allowances are a crucial consideration. Most airlines allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or briefcase, free of charge. However, the size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage can vary between airlines and regions, so it's essential to check the specific guidelines before packing. While some airlines provide spacious allowances, others have strict limitations, and oversized bags may need to be checked in. Understanding these restrictions is key to a stress-free travel experience. Additionally, certain items, such as liquids, gels, and aerosols, are subject to further regulations, and it's important to be aware of any potential hazards or restrictions on specific items.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of carry-on bags allowed | 1 |
| Number of personal items allowed | 1 |
| Size of carry-on bag | 22" x 14" x 9" (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm) |
| Size of personal item | 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) or smaller |
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What You'll Learn

Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (56 x 35/36 x 23 cm)
The maximum allowable dimensions for a full-size carry-on bag are 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, or equivalently, 56 cm by 35 or 36 cm by 23 cm. These dimensions are standard across most airlines, providing a consistent guideline for passengers. This size ensures the bag can fit in the overhead compartments of airplanes, which are designed to accommodate luggage of this volume.
It is important to note that these dimensions refer to the maximum size permitted for a carry-on bag. While these are standard measurements, it is always advisable to check with your specific airline for their carry-on luggage policies, as there may be slight variations in requirements. Additionally, while these dimensions provide a generous amount of space for personal items, it is essential to consider weight limitations. Most airlines enforce restrictions on the weight of carry-on luggage, typically ranging from 7 to 25 pounds (approximately 3 to 11 kilograms). Overweight carry-on bags may be subject to additional fees or may need to be checked instead.
To optimize the allowed carry-on space, travellers often invest in luggage specifically designed for carry-on purposes. These bags are strategically crafted to fit snugly into the allotted spaces, maximizing the available volume. They typically feature multiple compartments to facilitate efficient organization and packing. Some even incorporate built-in shelves or dividers, revolutionizing the way you pack and providing easy access to your belongings.
When selecting a full-size carry-on bag, consider not only the dimensions but also the ease of transport. Opt for a bag equipped with sturdy and manoeuvrable wheels, as well as a comfortable and adjustable handle, to ensure smooth navigation through airports and narrow aircraft aisles. Additionally, look for features that enhance the durability and security of your luggage, such as water-resistant fabric, secure locking mechanisms, and robust zippers.
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Includes handles and wheels
When packing for a flight, it's important to keep in mind that carry-on luggage restrictions can be strict, and you may be asked to check your bag if it doesn't meet the size requirements. The standard size limitation for most domestic airlines for a larger carry-on bag is 22" by 14" by 9", including any handles and wheels. This ensures that your bag, and ideally everyone else's, will fit in the overhead bin for your flight.
Some airlines, like Southwest and Frontier, allow for slightly larger luggage as carry-on, with a size limit of 24" by 16" by 10". It's important to note that these size restrictions are for the entire bag, including handles and wheels. This means that if your bag has large handles or wheels, the main container will need to be smaller to compensate.
Internationally, smaller or budget airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair will typically accept a suitcase that's 22" high and 14" wide, including the handle and wheels. While these measurements are standard across many airlines, it's always a good idea to check the specific rules of your carrier, as there can be variations.
In addition to size restrictions, there may also be weight limits for carry-on luggage, depending on your destination. For example, flights to or from Beijing or Shanghai typically have a weight limit of 22 pounds for carry-on bags, while Singapore has a 15-pound limit.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it's recommended to plan ahead and choose carry-on luggage that adheres to the size and weight restrictions specified by your airline. This will allow you to bring your luggage onboard without any issues and avoid any last-minute hassles or additional fees.
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One carry-on and one personal item
When packing for a flight, it's important to understand the difference between a carry-on bag and a personal item. A carry-on bag is any type of luggage you bring into the airplane cabin and store in the overhead bin. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag per passenger, which must meet the size and weight restrictions of the airline. For US domestic flights, carry-on bags must typically be 22" long, 14" wide, and 9" tall or smaller, including the wheels and handles.
Personal items, on the other hand, are smaller bags that can be stored underneath the seat in front of you. They are designed for easy access to essential belongings during the flight, such as books, journals, snacks, medicines, and valuables. Most airlines allow one personal item in addition to your carry-on bag, free of charge. While some airlines specify size limitations, personal items typically must be small enough to fit underneath the seat and may not exceed measurements of 18" x 14" x 8".
It's important to note that different airlines have varying rules regarding carry-on luggage, so it's always best to check the specific guidelines of your chosen airline. Additionally, some low-cost carriers may only include a personal item with the basic economy ticket, and you may need to pay a small additional fee for a carry-on bag.
To maximise your packing space, consider using a backpack as your personal item. Modern backpacks often feature a spacious interior, multiple exterior pockets, water bottle holders, laptop compartments, and tech pouches. A backpack is typically lighter than a wheeled roller, easier to carry than a briefcase, and more spacious than a laptop bag.
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Personal item must fit under the seat
When packing for a flight, it's important to consider the size of your carry-on luggage and personal items to ensure they meet the requirements. While the specific dimensions may vary slightly between airlines, the general rule is that your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. This ensures that you have easy access to your belongings during the flight and that the limited space in the overhead bins is used efficiently.
A personal item typically refers to a small bag such as a purse, laptop bag, briefcase, backpack, or similar piece. Some airlines provide specific dimensions for personal items, such as a maximum size of 18.5" x 8.5" x 13.5" (47 cm x 21.5 cm x 34 cm), while others may simply state that it should be able to fit under the seat. It's always a good idea to check with your airline before packing to ensure your personal item meets their requirements.
To maximise the space under the seat, consider using a slim bag or one with a flat bottom. This will help your bag fit more easily into the designated space. Additionally, try to pack efficiently by only bringing the essentials. This will make it more comfortable for you during the flight and will also free up space for other passengers' belongings.
It's worth noting that, in addition to size restrictions, there are also regulations regarding the type of items you can bring in your carry-on luggage and personal item. Most countries have restrictions on liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes, which must be in containers of a certain size. Special provisions are usually made for necessary items like medication and infant formula. It's always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the latest guidelines to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Liquids, gels, aerosols and pastes are restricted
Liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes are restricted to a certain amount when bringing them on a plane in your carry-on luggage. This restriction was implemented in 2006 when the U.S., the UK, and Pakistan security foiled a plot by al-Qaeda operatives to set off bombs on airplanes using liquid explosives. The plan was to smuggle the bomb materials onto the planes using plastic drink bottles.
The TSA's 3-1-1 rule states that you can carry no more than 3.4 ounces (roughly 100 milliliters) per container of liquid, gels, aerosols, creams, or pastes in your carry-on luggage. All containers must fit into a clear one-quart bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger. Any liquids that don't meet these limitations will be confiscated. This rule also applies to items that are partially full.
The TSA considers substances that most people would consider solids or gases as liquids. For example, toothpaste, hair spray, shampoo, mascara, and mouthwash are all classified as liquids. Medication, breast milk, and juice or formula for infants are exempt from the rule and will receive special screening.
Duty-free liquids are allowed through security in your carry-on bag if they are packaged in a security tamper-evident bag. If you are unsure about any item, it is best to contact the TSA.
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Frequently asked questions
A full-size carry-on bag is typically defined by its dimensions, which should not exceed 22" x 14" x 9" (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm), including any handles or wheels. This ensures that the bag can fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
While many major domestic airlines such as Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue do not have specific weight restrictions, it is important that you can lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. Weight restrictions are more common on smaller commuter planes and low-cost international carriers.
A personal item is generally smaller than a carry-on bag and must fit under the seat in front of you. Examples include a purse, laptop bag, briefcase, backpack, or diaper bag. Personal item dimensions vary by airline, with some not specifying any restrictions.
Yes, most countries restrict the size of containers with liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes. These items must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces or 100ml, and they should be placed in a quart-size bag for security screening.

























