Luggage Size Guide: Carry-On Dimensions for Major Airlines (2026)
Don't get gate-checked! We compiled the definitive 2026 carry-on size charts for Delta, United, Ryanair, and more. Learn how to measure your bag correctly to avoid fees.
Quick list
- US Domestic: Generally larger (22 x 14 x 9). Weight limits are rarely enforced unless the bag looks incredibly heavy.
- International / European Budget: Smaller and stricter. The standard is often 21.5" x 15.7" x 7.8" (55 x 40 x 20 cm). Brands like Ryanair and EasyJet have zero tolerance. They also enforce strict weight limits (often 7kg or 10kg).
- Stand it up: Place the suitcase upright on the floor.
- Measure Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the handle (in its retracted position). Do not ignore the wheels!
- Measure Width: Measure the widest part of the bag (including side handles).
- Measure Depth: If the bag is expandable, zip it closed. Measure the thickness.
- Ignoring the Wheels: Spinner wheels add 1.5–2 inches to the height. This is the #1 reason people get gate-checked.
- Overstuffing: A softside bag that is technically 9 inches deep can easily bulge to 11 inches if you pack it tight. Sizers are rigid; they won't expand for you.
- Assuming "Personal Item" means "Backpack": A large hiking backpack is not a personal item. A personal item must fit fully under the seat in front of you.
Introduction: The Inch That Costs You $50
Travel in 2026 is efficient, but airlines are stricter than ever about carry-on dimensions. That "standard" 22-inch roller you bought five years ago? It might technically be 23 inches when you include the wheels—and on a budget airline, that inch could cost you a $60 gate-check fee.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We explain the difference between Domestic and International sizes, how to measure properly, and provide a cheat sheet for the world's most popular airlines.
The Golden Rule: 22 x 14 x 9 Inches
If you want a bag that fits on 95% of US domestic flights (Delta, American, United), memorize these numbers: 22" x 14" x 9" (56 x 35 x 23 cm). This includes the wheels and the handle.
Pro Tip: Many luggage brands sell "Carry-Ons" that are actually 23 inches tall. They fit in large overhead bins but will fail the "sizer box" test if an agent checks.
Domestic vs. International: The Difference
- US Domestic: Generally larger (22 x 14 x 9). Weight limits are rarely enforced unless the bag looks incredibly heavy.
- International / European Budget: Smaller and stricter. The standard is often 21.5" x 15.7" x 7.8" (55 x 40 x 20 cm). Brands like Ryanair and EasyJet have zero tolerance. They also enforce strict weight limits (often 7kg or 10kg).
2026 Airline Carry-On Size Chart
| Airline | Max Dimensions (Inches) | Max Weight | Personal Item Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No Limit | Must fit under seat |
| United Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No Limit | 9 x 10 x 17 |
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | No Limit | 18 x 14 x 8 |
| Southwest | 24 x 16 x 10 | No Limit | 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 |
| Ryanair | 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 | 10 kg (22 lbs) | 15.7 x 7.8 x 9.8 |
| Lufthansa | 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 | 8 kg (17.6 lbs) | 15.7 x 11.8 x 4 |
| British Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 23 kg (51 lbs) | 16 x 12 x 6 |
| Emirates | 22 x 15 x 8 | 7 kg (15 lbs) | Not allowed (Economy) |
How to Measure Your Bag Correctly
- Stand it up: Place the suitcase upright on the floor.
- Measure Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the handle (in its retracted position). Do not ignore the wheels!
- Measure Width: Measure the widest part of the bag (including side handles).
- Measure Depth: If the bag is expandable, zip it closed. Measure the thickness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the Wheels: Spinner wheels add 1.5–2 inches to the height. This is the #1 reason people get gate-checked.
- Overstuffing: A softside bag that is technically 9 inches deep can easily bulge to 11 inches if you pack it tight. Sizers are rigid; they won't expand for you.
- Assuming "Personal Item" means "Backpack": A large hiking backpack is not a personal item. A personal item must fit fully under the seat in front of you.
FAQ
What happens if my bag is 1 inch too big?
On legacy carriers (Delta, United), you usually get away with it. On budget carriers (Spirit, Frontier, Ryanair), you will likely be forced to pay a gate fee of $50-$100.
Does the handle count in dimensions?
Yes. The retractable handle (when pushed down) and the fixed carry handles count towards the total dimensions.
Can I bring a garment bag as a carry-on?
Yes, usually garment bags are allowed as your carry-on item if they fold to fit the dimensions. However, soft garment bags are floppy and can be tricky to place in bins with rolling suitcases.
Conclusion
Knowledge is power—and savings. By sticking to the 22 x 14 x 9 rule (or 21.5" for international), you can travel seamlessly without the anxiety of the gate agent's measuring tape.
Next Step: Need a bag that is guaranteed to fit? Check out our review of the Best International Carry-On Spinners that meet the stricter European standards.
Discussion
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