A bag that rides in the cabin on one airline gets gate-checked on another — with a fee attached. Carry-on size and weight are never truly "universal": there's a familiar benchmark, and then there are your airline's and fare's actual rules. Below we cover both.
A typical carry-on is around 55×40×20–25 cm and 7–10 kg, plus usually one personal item under the seat. But the exact figures are set by the carrier and fare, especially with low-cost airlines. Check the limit in your booking details under My bookings and on the airline's website before departure.
01 / BenchmarkThe standard size and weight
Most major carriers settle around a similar limit: a carry-on up to 55×40×20–25 cm and weighing 7–10 kg. The dimensions usually include the wheels and handles, and they're measured against a sizer at the gate. If your bag doesn't fit the sizer, it gets checked — sometimes with a fee right at boarding.
02 / On topWhat you can carry on top of your carry-on
Besides your main carry-on, you're usually allowed one personal item — a small bag or backpack that fits under the seat in front of you. Its size varies by carrier, but it's typically around 40×30×20 cm. On top of that, the items below can usually be carried separately, without counting toward your allowance.
- Outerwear — coat, jacket, blanket.
- Devices in hand — phone, tablet, laptop (often kept in the personal item).
- Food and care items for an infant during the flight.
- Medical aids and medication — cane, crutches, meds you need en route.
- Duty‑free purchases in a sealed bag with the receipt — though connection rules vary.
03 / CheckHow to find your limit in a minute
Open your booking
Go to My bookings and pick the flight.
Find the baggage line
The flight details show the carry-on and checked allowances for your fare.
Cross-check the airline
Open the baggage page on the carrier's website for the exact dimensions and weight.
Weigh and measure at home
Measure the bag including wheels and handles, and leave a 0.5–1 kg margin on the scale.
04 / In practiceHow to avoid surprises at the gate
- 01Pick a case with some margin on size — a stuffed bag bulges and may fail the sizer.
- 02Pack heavy, dense items down by the wheels — it's easier to keep within the weight limit.
- 03Liquids in your carry-on follow the 100 ml container rule in a clear bag.
- 04Power banks and spare batteries go in the cabin only, never in checked baggage.
- 05If you have an onward connection, check the allowance of each carrier on the route.
05 / FAQFrequently asked
What carry-on size is "safe" for most flights?
The benchmark is roughly 55×40×20–25 cm and up to 7–10 kg. That works for most full-service carriers, but low-cost airlines and certain fares may allow less — check with the airline.
Can I take both a suitcase and a backpack?
Usually yes: one main carry-on plus one personal item (a backpack or bag) under the seat. But low-cost basic fares often include the personal item only — check your fare's terms.
What if my bag is slightly over the weight limit?
At the desk or gate you may be asked to move some items around or to check the bag for a fee. To avoid that, leave a small margin on both weight and size.
Where do I see the allowance for my specific booking?
In the flight details under My bookings. If something's unclear, message us or call 8 800 1000-646 and we'll cross-check the carrier's rules with you.