Airports' Strict Carry-On Luggage Rules And Measurement Policies

Airports and airlines have varying rules and restrictions when it comes to carry-on luggage. While some airlines impose strict size and weight restrictions on carry-on luggage, others are more lenient. It's important to check the specific rules of your airline before your flight to avoid any issues or unexpected fees. In general, domestic flights tend to have more relaxed restrictions compared to international flights, which often have specific size and weight limits. Most airlines allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, with specific dimensions that ensure they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Domestic carry-on size limits

It's important to note that some airlines have linear inch restrictions, meaning they give a total number for the combined height, width, and depth of your carry-on. As long as the combined dimensions of your bag do not exceed this number, you're within the size limit.

When choosing a carry-on bag, it's recommended to opt for one that meets the requirements of most major airlines (22" x 14" x 9" or smaller). This will ensure your bag can be brought on board without any issues, regardless of the airline you're flying with.

In addition to your carry-on suitcase, many airlines also permit a personal item, such as a laptop bag, purse, briefcase, or beach bag. These items are generally smaller and should fit under the seat in front of you.

To avoid any last-minute surprises, it's always a good idea to measure your carry-on luggage before your trip and to familiarise yourself with the specific size and weight restrictions of the airline you're flying with.

International carry-on size limits

Understanding International Carry-on Size Limits:

• Standard Carry-on Size: The standard carry-on baggage size for international flights originating and ending outside the US is typically smaller than the US standard. The general rule of thumb is about 21 inches, while US domestic flights usually allow up to 22 inches or above.
• Weight Restrictions: International carry-on size standards often focus on weight rather than dimensions. The usual weight limit is 50 pounds, and the allowable weight differs per airline. For example, British Airways sets its carry-on weight limit at 51 pounds.
• Linear Measurements: Some airlines provide a linear inch or centimeter measurement that your bag needs to fall under. This is calculated by measuring the length, width, and height of your bag, including handles and wheels, and adding these measurements together.
• Varying Restrictions: Carry-on restrictions vary between airlines and countries. For instance, some local airlines have tighter limits of 21 inches or less. Always check the specific requirements of the airlines and countries you'll be travelling with and through.

Measuring Your Carry-on Luggage:

• Check Airline Requirements: Each airline has different requirements for carry-on baggage, so it's essential to consult their websites for the most up-to-date information.
• Consider Bag Extensions: If your bag has extensions, such as a zipper that increases its size, ensure you measure your bag with the extension unzipped and retracted.
• Double-Check Retailer Listings: Luggage retailers may advertise their bags as "carry-on compliant," but their listed measurements might not align with all airlines' requirements. Always measure your bag before packing and travelling.
• Measure Packed Bag: An empty bag might fit within the airline's requirements, but it may exceed the limits once packed. Therefore, it's crucial to measure your bag after packing it.
• Height, Width, and Depth: When measuring your luggage, take into account the wheels, handles, and any protruding parts. Measure the length from the bottom to the top, the width across the widest part, and the height from the bottom to the top, including the handles.
• Weight Measurement: In addition to size, many airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. Use a scale to weigh your packed bag and ensure it meets the airline's guidelines.

International Carry-on Size Chart:

To help you navigate the varying restrictions, here is an international carry-on size chart with measurements in both imperial and metric units:

• Maximum Dimensions (Imperial): 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
• Changi International Airport (SIN): 15 inches (7 cm).
• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 22 inches (10 cm).
• Pudong International Airport (PVG): 22 inches (10 cm).
• Japan Airlines (JAL): Linear dimensions not exceeding 45 inches (115 cm).

Additional Considerations:

• Personal Items: Many international airlines don't have specific size restrictions for personal items like purses, briefcases, or laptop bags. However, these items should generally fit under the seat in front of you or in the seatback pocket.
• Weight Limits for Carry-on: The weight limit for carry-on luggage on international flights is typically lower than on domestic flights. It usually ranges from 16 to 18 pounds, but some airlines may have different limits or none at all.
• Checked Luggage: Checked luggage weight limits are typically the same for international and domestic flights, with a standard limit of 50 pounds. However, international flights in the US and EU allow up to 70 pounds.
• Prohibited Items: Certain items are prohibited in carry-on luggage for international flights due to safety concerns. These include explosives, firearms, sharp objects, flammable liquids, and certain chemicals. Additionally, liquids and gels above 100 ml are typically not allowed.
• Fees and Delays: If your carry-on luggage exceeds the size or weight restrictions, you may be required to check it at the gate or counter, incurring additional fees and causing potential delays.

Weight restrictions

When travelling, it's important to be aware of weight restrictions for carry-on luggage to avoid any nasty surprises at the airport. While most domestic airlines do not impose weight restrictions on carry-on luggage, several international airlines do have weight restrictions, and in some cases, these restrictions apply to personal items as well. These weight restrictions are in place to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the risk of injury to baggage handlers.

For many major domestic airlines, such as Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue, there are no weight restrictions for carry-on bags. However, your bag should be light enough for you to lift it into the overhead storage bin. As long as your bag doesn't appear overstuffed, you will likely be fine. On the other hand, weight restrictions are much more important for small commuter planes, mainly due to safety regulations, and on low-cost international carriers like Easyjet and Ryanair.

When travelling internationally, it's crucial to check the specific weight restrictions of your airline. For example, Air France has a weight limit of 26.4 pounds (12 kg) for carry-on luggage and personal items combined when travelling in economy class. Meanwhile, British Airways has a weight limit of 22 pounds (10 kg) for carry-on luggage and personal items combined. Additionally, some airlines have weight restrictions that vary based on the cabin you're travelling in. For instance, Air Europa allows a maximum weight of 17 pounds (8 kg) for carry-on luggage and personal items in economy or super economy, while business and first-class passengers are allowed up to 31 pounds (14 kg).

To avoid any issues, it's always best to weigh your carry-on luggage after it's fully packed and ensure it complies with the weight restrictions of your airline. This will help you avoid any unexpected fees or the hassle of rearranging your luggage at the airport.

Personal items

When packing for a flight, it's important to consider the size and weight restrictions for both carry-on luggage and personal items. Personal items are typically smaller bags that can be stowed under the seat in front of you, providing easy access to items you may need during the flight, such as laptops, medication, or books.

While the specific dimensions vary by airline, the standard size for a personal item is generally smaller than that of a carry-on bag. Some examples of personal items include a laptop bag, a purse, a briefcase, or a diaper bag. It's important to check your airline's guidelines before your flight to ensure your personal item complies with their size and weight restrictions.

In addition to size and weight restrictions, there are also regulations on what you can pack in your personal item. For example, you cannot bring containers of liquids, pastes, aerosols, gels, or creams larger than 3.4 ounces, and these items need to fit in a one-quart zip-top bag. Other prohibited items include firearms and lithium batteries.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it's recommended to plan ahead and measure your personal item before arriving at the airport. By following the airline's guidelines and keeping your personal item within the specified size and weight limits, you can avoid additional fees and last-minute hassles.

Some airlines provide specific dimensions for personal items. For example, JetBlue allows personal items with dimensions of up to 18.5" x 8.5" x 13.5", while Southwest allows slightly larger personal items of up to 18" x 14" x 8". It's always a good idea to check your airline's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Avoiding extra fees

To avoid extra fees when travelling with carry-on luggage, it is important to be aware of the size and weight restrictions of the airline you are flying with. Checking an airline's website for their baggage requirements is crucial, as these can vary depending on the airline and the type of flight (domestic or international). Here are some tips to help you avoid extra fees:

Check the Airline's Baggage Policies

Before packing, carefully review the baggage policies of the airline you are flying with. Most airlines provide specific guidelines on their websites, outlining the size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. Make sure you understand these restrictions to avoid any unexpected fees at the airport.

Measure Your Luggage

To ensure your carry-on luggage complies with the airline's size restrictions, take the time to measure it accurately. Measure the height, width, and depth of your bag, including any handles and wheels. Compare these measurements with the airline's size limits to ensure your luggage is within the allowed dimensions.

Weigh Your Luggage

In addition to size restrictions, some airlines also have weight limits for carry-on bags. Weigh your luggage after it is fully packed to ensure it meets the weight requirements. This is especially important for international flights, as they often have stricter weight restrictions than domestic flights.

Be Mindful of Personal Items

In addition to your carry-on luggage, you are usually allowed to bring a personal item on board, such as a laptop bag, purse, or briefcase. These items typically need to fit under the seat in front of you. Make sure you understand the size and weight restrictions for personal items to avoid any additional fees.

Choose the Right Luggage

When selecting a carry-on bag, opt for one that meets the size and weight restrictions of the airline you fly with most often. This will help ensure your luggage complies with the restrictions and avoid the need to purchase multiple bags for different airlines.

Pack Strategically

If you are concerned about exceeding weight restrictions, pack your luggage strategically. Distribute weight evenly and utilise vacuum-sealed storage bags to maximise space and reduce the overall weight of your luggage.

By following these tips and staying informed about the specific baggage policies of your chosen airline, you can effectively avoid extra fees when travelling with carry-on luggage.

Frequently asked questions