Baggage Update!
As of April 2025, several airlines have updated their carry-on baggage policies, including size restrictions and fees. Here’s a summary of some of the latest changes:
American Airlines:
- Carry-On Size Limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
- Personal Item Size Limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Delta Air Lines:
- Carry-On Size Limit: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles.
- Personal Item: Examples include purses, small backpacks, and laptops.
Frontier Airlines:
- Carry-On Size Limit: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (61 x 41 x 25 cm).
- Carry-On Weight Limit: 35 pounds (15.9 kg).
- Personal Item Size Limit: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Air Canada:
- Economy Basic Fare: For tickets purchased on or after January 3, 2025, carry-on baggage is no longer included. Passengers are permitted one personal item only.
- Carry-On Size Limit: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches (55 x 40 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles.
- Personal Item Size Limit: 13 x 17 x 6 inches (33 x 43 x 16 cm).
General Recommendations:
- Verify Airline Policies: Always check your airline’s official website for the most current baggage policies before traveling, as regulations can change.
- Measure and Weigh Your Bags: Ensure your carry-on and personal items comply with the specified dimensions and weight limits to avoid additional fees or the need to check your bag.
- Consider Fare Types: Be aware that some fare classes, like Air Canada’s Economy Basic, may have more restrictive baggage allowances.
Carry-On Baggage Restrictions:
- Standard Size Limits: Many U.S. airlines now enforce a maximum carry-on size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
- Weight Limits: While weight restrictions for carry-on bags vary, some airlines have implemented specific limits. For instance, Frontier Airlines imposes a 35-pound (15.9 kg) weight limit on carry-ons.
- Personal Items: In addition to carry-on luggage, airlines typically allow one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, which must fit under the seat in front of you. Size limits for personal items also vary by airline.
Checked Baggage Policies:
- Size and Weight Limits: Checked bags are generally limited to 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and a weight of 50 pounds (22.7 kg). Exceeding these limits can result in additional fees.
Additional Fees:
- Carry-On Charges: Some airlines have introduced fees for carry-on bags. For example, starting January 2025, Air Canada began charging basic economy passengers an extra fee for larger carry-on luggage on flights within the Americas.
Tips for Travelers:
- Check Airline Policies: Before traveling, review your airline’s specific baggage policies to avoid unexpected fees or complications.
- Measure and Weigh Luggage: Ensure your bags comply with size and weight restrictions to prevent additional charges at the gate.
Staying informed about these policies will help ensure a smoother travel experience and prevent unexpected charges at the airport.