Will your carry-on fit?
Gate-checking a bag you thought was fine is the worst way to start a trip. Pick your airline, enter your bag, and know before you go.
It fits
Your bag is within Most US airlines (standard)'s carry-on limit.
22 x 14 x 9 in
airline limit
56 x 36 x 23 cm
in centimeters
Limits and enforcement change. Confirm on the airline website before you fly.
Carry-on limits at popular airlines
Maximum carry-on size, including wheels and handles. Most major US airlines share the 22 x 14 x 9 inch standard; budget and international carriers vary and often weigh bags.
| Airline | Inches | cm | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 | 56 x 36 x 23 | no limit |
| Southwest Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | 61 x 41 x 25 | no limit |
| Spirit Airlines | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 46 x 25 | no limit |
| Frontier Airlines | 24 x 16 x 10 | 61 x 41 x 25 | 35 lb |
| British Airways | 22 x 18 x 10 | 56 x 45 x 25 | no limit |
| Ryanair | 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 | 55 x 40 x 20 | 22 lb |
| easyJet | 22 x 17.7 x 9.8 | 56 x 45 x 25 | 33 lb |
| Emirates | 21.6 x 14.9 x 8.6 | 55 x 38 x 22 | 15 lb |
| Lufthansa | 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 | 55 x 40 x 23 | 17.6 lb |
| Qatar Airways | 20 x 15 x 10 | 50 x 37 x 25 | 15 lb |
Source: airline policies as published (chart maintained 2026). Always confirm on the airline site, since limits and enforcement change. See how we research and rate.
A carry-on that fits every time
If your current bag failed the check, the Away Carry-On 22 is our best-overall hardside: sized inside the major US airline limits so the gate check stops being a gamble. See all carry-on picks →
AWAY
The Carry-On 22-Inch Lightweight Hardside Suitcase
- Case dimensions
- 21.7" x 14.4" x 9"
- Weight
- 7.5 lbs
- Capacity
- 35.5 L (independently measured by Outdoor Gear Lab; Away claims 41 L)
- Shell material
- 100% polycarbonate hardshell
- Wheels
- 4-wheel WhisperGlide 360-degree spinner
- Lock
- TSA-approved combination lock, built-in
Away's flagship carry-on pairs a dense polycarbonate shell with a patented dual-buckle compression panel, TSA lock, and smooth WhisperGlide spinner wheels. Outdoor Gear Lab rates it 81/100 and notes the shell is thicker than most competitors at this price.
Researched, not personally tested: picks come from specs, verified-owner reviews, and expert sources, scored into the Kit Score. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from links here, at no extra cost to you. How we research →
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard carry-on size?
The most common carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), used by most major US airlines including American, Delta, United, Alaska, and JetBlue. Measured with wheels and handles, that size fits the widest range of airlines.
Do carry-on size limits include wheels and handles?
Yes. Airline carry-on dimensions include wheels, handles, and external pockets, so measure your bag at its largest points. A bag sold as 22 inches can measure 23 or 24 with the wheels, which is a common reason bags get gate-checked.
What is the carry-on weight limit?
Most US airlines do not enforce a carry-on weight limit, but many international and budget carriers do, commonly 7 to 10 kg (about 15 to 22 lb). Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar, and many in Asia and Europe weigh carry-ons at the gate.
Is a carry-on the same as a personal item?
No. A carry-on goes in the overhead bin and is the larger allowance. A personal item like a backpack or purse must fit under the seat and is smaller, typically around 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Many basic-economy fares include only a personal item.
What carry-on size works for almost any airline?
A bag around 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches (55 x 35 x 20 cm) clears the strictest common limits, including budget European carriers like Ryanair. If you only fly major US airlines, a standard 22 x 14 x 9 inch bag is fine.
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