Making sure you know the rules for carry on luggage will save you a lot of money and headaches ahead of your flight. We’ll dive into what size and weight your carry on should be, as well as what is allowed inside.

carry on rules

Maximum Allowable Size for Carry On Luggage

The standard carry on bag size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches / 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters. If your bag has wheels or a handle, you will also need to include these in the calculation. This size restriction is followed by a majority of airlines. No major airline has a requirement that is smaller.

This is important if you’re on the market for a new carry on bag. Following these measurements will ensure your new bag is not turned away at the gate. If your bag is too large and turned away, the airline will likely require you to check your bag. This includes paying the hefty checked baggage fee.

There are, however, airlines that allow you to take a carry on bag onboard that is a few inches larger than the standard limit. So if you have a bag that is a bit bigger that you want to bring, it would definitely be worth a look. Alaska Airlines, Southwest, and Virgin have some of the largest allowances for carry-on bag size.

Weight Limits for a Carry On Bag

Unfortunately, there is not a standard weight requirement for carry on bags that airlines follow. The weight allowance can range from 15 lbs to 51 lbs to no limit. In that case, it would be best to check the airline’s website if you’re worried that your luggage will be over the strictest guidance of 15lbs.

However, from my experience, I’ve never had my carry on weighed. Sometimes the weight requirements are there to make sure that the majority of people can handle their own luggage. This means putting it into the overhead compartment without the help of flight attendants. And sometimes it’s because the plane will be smaller and balancing the plane is trickier.

What You Can’t Pack in Your Carry-On

The first rule for packing your carry on bag is to not put anything in there that you will need during the flight. There is no place to go through luggage on the plane, so making sure everything is organized beforehand is important. Make sure to pack anything that you need on the flight should be put with your personal item (purse, backpack, laptop bag) that is stored under the seat in front of you during the flight.

You will also want to make sure the you follow the TSA guidelines for liquids when you pack. If not, you won’t make it past airport security without some items getting thrown away. Those rules are that all your liquids must all be in 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller containers and fit into a resealable quart-sized plastic bag. Each person in your party is allowed to have their own bag of liquids that fir this requirement.

Weapons, or anything that resembles or can easily be used as weapon is generally not allowed. Flammable items like lighters are also not allowed. For an extensive list on what you can pack in your bag, visit the TSA website.

Following the rules for carry on luggage are simple, but will make your experience at the airport much easier.