Carry-On Luggage Size Guide 2025: Airline-by-Airline Chart for U.S. Travelers

If you’ve ever been stopped at the gate because your suitcase didn’t fit in the overhead bin, you know how important it is to understand carry-on luggage rules before you travel. While most U.S. airlines follow similar guidelines, there are key differences that can catch travelers off guard.

This 2025 carry-on luggage size guide breaks down the limits for each major U.S. airline so you can pack confidently, skip baggage fees, and breeze through TSA.

Why Carry-On Size Matters

Each airline sets its own size restrictions for carry-on luggage and yes, that includes handles and wheels. If your bag is even slightly too large, you may be required to check it at the gate (and possibly pay a fee).

The “standard” U.S. carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but not all airlines follow that rule exactly. Some offer more space, while others have additional requirements like “linear inch” limits (the sum of length + width + height).

Carry-On Size Chart: Major U.S. Airlines

Airline	Max Carry-On Size (inches)	Notes / Special Rules
American Airlines	22 × 14 × 9	Includes wheels and handles. Must fit in the sizer.
Delta Air Lines	22 × 14 × 9 (≤ 45 linear inches)	Strict linear inch limit; same dimensions as most major carriers.
United Airlines	22 × 14 × 9	Bag must fit fully in overhead bin. Handles and wheels included.
Southwest Airlines	24 × 16 × 10	One of the most generous carry-on allowances in the U.S.
Alaska Airlines	22 × 14 × 9	Standard size for most U.S. carriers.
JetBlue Airways	22 × 14 × 9	Consistent with major airlines; watch for Blue Basic fare restrictions.
Frontier Airlines	24 × 16 × 10	Slightly larger, but carry-ons often come with additional fees.
Spirit Airlines	22 × 18 × 10	Slightly wider; fees apply unless you’ve upgraded from “personal item only.”

What You Should Know Before Packing

1. The 22 × 14 × 9 Rule

Most full-service airlines in the U.S. like American, Delta, United, and Alaska use this as their carry-on standard. It’s the safest size to choose if you travel frequently or with multiple carriers.

2. Southwest’s Bigger Allowance

Southwest allows 24 × 16 × 10 inches, giving you noticeably more space. If you tend to overpack or bring bulky items, this can make a big difference.

3. Budget Airlines Are Stricter

Carriers like Spirit and Frontier often charge extra for carry-ons and may require your bag to fit into a smaller “personal item” box if you don’t pay for overhead bin space.

4. Handles and Wheels Count

All airlines measure from the outermost points of your suitcase including wheels, handles, and pockets. Don’t rely on the manufacturer’s label alone; measure your bag yourself.

5. Linear Inches Rule

Delta and a few others use a “linear inch” policy, meaning the total of all sides must not exceed 45 inches. Always check your airline’s site before you fly.

6. Aircraft Type Matters

Even if your bag meets the size requirements, small regional jets may not have overhead bins large enough. Be prepared for gate checking if you’re on a smaller plane.

7. Weight Limits

Most U.S. airlines don’t have strict weight limits for carry-ons, but international flights often do. If you’re connecting to a global carrier, double-check their policy.

Tips for Choosing the Right Carry-On

• Stick with 22 x 14 x 9 inches to be safe across most airlines.

• Look for lightweight, expandable options that still meet max dimensions.

• Measure with a tape, not just by the manufacturer’s tag dimensions often exclude handles or wheels.

• Consider soft-sided luggage if you fly on smaller planes or through regional airports.

• Always check the airline’s latest rules before your trip, as policies can change.

  
  

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