Carry-On size limits by airline (2026)
Overhead bin space feels tighter every year – and the difference between a smooth boarding experience and a gate-check is often a single inch. This guide provides a practical 2026 reference for carry-on size limits by airline, plus the simple steps that help travellers measure correctly and avoid surprises.
Looking for a carry-on that fits within common airline limits? Browse: Carry-On Luggage.
The “common standard” – and why it still varies
Many North American carriers cluster around a familiar maximum: 22" × 14" × 9" (including wheels and handles). But policies still vary by airline, aircraft type, fare class, and route – and enforcement is not always consistent.
Important: Airline policies can change. This guide is a helpful starting point – but travellers should confirm the latest limits on the airline’s official baggage page before flying.
Carry-on size limits by airline (2026 reference)
Dimensions below are listed as L × W × H and should be measured including wheels and handles. Where an airline uses a “linear” limit, it’s shown as L+W+H.
| Airline | Carry-on max (cm) | Carry-on max (in) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 56 × 36 × 23 | 22 × 14 × 9 | Includes wheels and handles. |
| Delta Air Lines | 56 × 35 × 23 | 22 × 14 × 9 | Also references 45 linear inches; includes wheels/handles. |
| United Airlines | 56 × 36 × 23 | 22 × 14 × 9 | Basic Economy restrictions may apply on some routes; includes wheels/handles. |
| Southwest Airlines | 61 × 41 × 25 | 24 × 16 × 10 | One of the more generous major-airline limits. |
| JetBlue | 56 × 36 × 23 | 22 × 14 × 9 | Carry-on size is stated as 22 × 14 × 9. |
| Air Canada | 55 × 40 × 23 | 21.5 × 15.5 × 9 | Max dimensions include wheels and handles. |
| British Airways | 56 × 45 × 25 | 22 × 18 × 10 | Cabin bag size includes wheels and handles. |
| Lufthansa | 55 × 40 × 23 | 21.7 × 15.7 × 9 | Economy typically allows 1 carry-on within these dimensions. |
| Air France | 55 × 35 × 25 | 21.7 × 13.8 × 9.9 | Dimensions include pockets, wheels, and handles. |
| KLM | 55 × 35 × 25 | 21.7 × 13.8 × 9.8 | Hand baggage maximum includes handles and wheels. |
| Emirates | 55 × 38 × 22 | 22 × 15 × 8 | Economy carry-on dimensions are listed as 55 × 38 × 22 cm. |
| Qatar Airways | 50 × 37 × 25 | 20 × 15 × 10 | Carry-on dimensions must not exceed 50 × 37 × 25 cm. |
| Singapore Airlines | ≤ 115 (L+W+H) | ≤ 45.3 (L+W+H) | Uses a linear-dimension limit (sum of sides), varies by cabin class. |
| ANA (All Nippon Airways) | 55 × 40 × 25 | 21.7 × 15.7 × 9.8 | Size includes wheels and handle; may differ on smaller aircraft. |
| Japan Airlines (JAL) | 55 × 40 × 25 | 22 × 16 × 10 | Size includes handles, pockets, wheels, etc. |
| Turkish Airlines | 55 × 40 × 23 | 21.7 × 15.7 × 9 | Economy cabin baggage maximum dimensions are 23 × 40 × 55 cm. |
| Ryanair | 40 × 30 × 20 (free small bag) 55 × 40 × 20 (Priority 10kg bag) |
15.7 × 11.8 × 7.9 (free small bag) 21.7 × 15.7 × 7.9 (Priority 10kg bag) |
Base fares include a small under-seat bag; overhead bag requires Priority & 2 Cabin Bags. |
| easyJet | 45 × 36 × 20 (small under-seat) 56 × 45 × 25 (large cabin option) |
17.7 × 14.2 × 7.9 (small) 22 × 18 × 10 (large) |
Everyone gets one small under-seat bag; large cabin bag is an add-on / fare benefit. |
| Virgin Atlantic | 56 × 36 × 23 | 22 × 14 × 9 | Cabin bag is listed as 23 × 36 × 56 cm. |
Tip: if a suitcase is expandable, measure it fully packed (expanded depth can push a bag over the limit).
How to measure a carry-on correctly
Airline sizers measure the outside of the suitcase – not the interior. The most common mistakes come from forgetting the parts that stick out.
- Height: measure from the ground to the top of the case shell – including wheels.
- Width: measure the widest point – including side handles.
- Depth: measure the deepest point – including front curvature or expansion zippers.
- Handle: measure with the telescopic handle fully retracted.
Carry-on vs. personal item – why both matter
Many travellers plan around the carry-on – and forget the personal item. In 2026, some fare classes and routes still limit what can be brought onboard, and gate agents may scrutinize bags more closely when bins are full.
A simple approach helps: one carry-on for the overhead, and one personal item that fits fully under the seat. For an everyday travel bag, browse: Metro Bags.
Choosing a carry-on that travels well
Size matters – but so does how a suitcase moves. Travellers tend to feel the difference most in three places:
- Wheels: smooth rolling reduces effort across terminals and city sidewalks.
- Handle stability: a steady telescopic handle helps prevent wobble.
- Interior structure: thoughtful organization keeps packing simple and secure.
For a deeper breakdown, see: How to Choose a Carry-On.
