In the United States, passengers on domestic and international flights will have to adapt to new carry-on baggage regulations. As of September 1, 2024, airlines have implemented stricter limits on the weight and size of carry-on bags, which directly impact the traveler’s experience. These modifications are aimed at improving airport and aircraft security, as well as optimizing the boarding process.
In this context, the new regulation establishes that the maximum weight of carry-on baggage will be between 15 and 22 pounds. In addition, the dimensions of the suitcases vary depending on the airline, but in general, they may not exceed 22 inches x 18 inches x 10 inches. However, low-cost airlines impose more severe restrictions, making it essential to check the specific policies of each airline before traveling.
| Domestic Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 inches |
| International Airlines | 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches |
These new rules aim to reduce in-flight risks and streamline the security and boarding process. However, they also present a challenge for many travelers who will need to adjust to these measures to avoid additional fees or problems when boarding. Below, we explore further how airlines are handling these new regulations.
Alaska Airlines
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles). Total linear dimensions 45 inches (length + width + height).
- No weight limit, but you must lift it into the overhead bin unassisted.
- Personal Item: Examples include a purse, laptop, or briefcase.
American Airlines
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles).
- Personal Item: Maximum dimensions 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Examples include a small backpack, purse, or laptop.
- Weight: No weight restrictions for carry-on luggage.
Delta Air Lines
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles). Total linear dimensions 45 inches (length + width + height).
- Personal Item: Examples include a laptop, purse, or small backpack.
- Weight: Specific weight limits for international airports include 7 kg (15.4 lb) in Singapore and 10 kg (22 lb) in Beijing and Shanghai.
Frontier Airlines
- Carry-On Bag: Fee applies depending on the ticket type. Maximum dimensions 24 x 16 x 10 inches and weight 35 pounds or less. Must fit in the overhead bin.
- Personal Item: Maximum dimensions 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Checked Bags: Linear dimensions maximum 62 inches and weight maximum 40 pounds before additional fees apply.
JetBlue
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles).
- Personal Item: Maximum dimensions 17 x 13 x 9 inches. Examples include a small backpack, purse, or camera bag.
- Weight: No weight limits for carry-on luggage.
Southwest Airlines
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 24 x 16 x 10 inches.
- Personal Item: Maximum dimensions 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches.
- Weight: No weight restrictions.
United Airlines
- Carry-On Bag: Maximum dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles).
- Personal Item: Maximum dimensions 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Examples include a small backpack or purse.
- Weight: No published weight restrictions.
Always check the specific airline’s rules before traveling, as restrictions can vary by route, ticket type, and other factors.
Key carry-on baggage rules
One of the most important points to consider is that carry-on baggage must not only comply with weight and size limits, but also with restrictions on contents. For example, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml will not be allowed, as well as certain dangerous objects such as knives and flammable substances. In addition, although airlines allow the transport of food, some products such as alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content of between 24% and 70% can only be carried in checked baggage.
It is key to be aware of these restrictions to avoid problems when boarding. Passengers who do not comply with the regulations may face additional fees, the obligation to check their baggage or, in some cases, the removal of certain items. Moreover, there are some items that can be added to the carry-on baggage with no problems. These items are candy, canned foods, cheese, coffee beans, nuts and dried fruit and some other food like sauces, sodas, soups and yoghurts not exceeding 100 ml.
Tips for adapting to the new baggage regulations
To ensure that they comply with the new regulations without inconvenience, travelers should review the specific policies of the airline they will be flying with. In most cases, traditional airlines allow a little more flexibility in terms of size and weight, but low-cost carriers are much stricter. In addition, it is important for passengers to check what items they can and cannot carry, especially liquids, which continue to be one of the main causes of problems at security checkpoints.
Finally, for those traveling with carry-on luggage, it is recommended to pack only the essentials, as carrying smaller, lighter suitcases can reduce the possibility of having to pay additional fees for excess weight. Keeping these points in mind will ensure a smoother and more hassle-free travel experience.