Airline Baggage Rules Explained: How Many Bags Can You Take?
uuh admin
Let’s face it—figuring out how many bags you can bring on a flight feels like solving a puzzle. Every airline seems to play by its own rules, and what worked for your last trip might not fly this time (pun intended).
This guide is your one-stop shop to demystify airline baggage rules. We’ll cover carry-ons, checked bags, personal items, airline-specific quirks, and smart travel hacks to save you from nasty fees at the airport.
Types of Airline Baggage
Carry-On Baggage
Carry-ons are bags you bring with you into the cabin. They go in the overhead bin and must fit certain size and weight restrictions. Think backpacks, duffel bags, or small suitcases.
Checked Baggage
Checked baggage gets handed over to the airline and stored in the plane's cargo hold. It’s ideal for longer trips or when you have bulkier items. But beware—this is where most fees come into play.
Personal Items
These are smaller than carry-ons and must fit under the seat in front of you. Think purses, laptop bags, or a small backpack. Yes, size matters—even here.
Carry-On Baggage Rules
Standard Dimensions and Weight
Most airlines allow one carry-on bag that doesn't exceed:
- 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
- Weight: Usually 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg), though some airlines don't enforce weight limits.
Liquids and TSA Regulations
You’ve probably heard of the 3-1-1 rule:
- Liquids must be in containers 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller.
- All liquids must fit in 1 quart-sized clear zip-top bag.
- 1 bag per passenger.
Read More: Air Travel Liquid Rules: TSA Rules, Tips, and Luggage Essentials.
Airline-Specific Carry-On Rules
- Spirit & Frontier: Charge for both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Southwest: Allows 1 free carry-on and 2 free checked bags.
- Delta, United, American: Typically allow 1 free carry-on + 1 personal item, with stricter enforcement on size.
Checked Baggage Rules
Weight Limits and Size Restrictions
- Standard checked bag limit: 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Max dimensions: 62 linear inches (157 cm)—that’s length + width + height.
Fees for Checked Bags
- Domestic U.S. Flights: $30–$40 for the first bag.
- International Flights: Often 1 or 2 bags free, depending on the destination and class.
Excess Baggage Charges
Overweight or oversized? Get ready to pay:
- $75 to $200 extra per bag depending on airline and weight.
Personal Items: What Counts and What Doesn’t
Examples of Personal Items
- Handbag or purse
- Laptop case
- Small backpack
- Briefcase
- Diaper bag
Restrictions and Tips
- Must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Some airlines are stricter and may force you to check larger items (and charge you!).
Baggage Allowance by U.S.-Based Airline (Full List)
Let’s break it down by each major U.S. airline, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. American Airlines
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free)
-
Checked Bags:
- Domestic: $35 (first), $45 (second)
- Free for AAdvantage elite, premium cabin passengers
- Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg), 62 linear inches
2. Delta Air Lines
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free)
-
Checked Bags:
- Domestic: $35 (first), $45 (second)
- International: 1-2 bags free depending on route/class
- Status Perks: Medallion members may get up to 3 free bags
- Size: 50 lbs max, 62 linear inches
3. United Airlines
-
Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free for most fares)
- Basic Economy: Personal item only
-
Checked Bags:
- Domestic: $35–$40 (first), $45–$50 (second)
- Elite flyers and international economy often get 1–2 free bags
- Size & Weight: 50 lbs, 62 linear inches
4. Southwest Airlines
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free)
-
Checked Bags:
- Two FREE checked bags for all passengers
-
Size/Weight Limits:
- 50 lbs per bag, 62 linear inches
- Best for: Budget travelers who pack more
5. Alaska Airlines
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free)
-
Checked Bags:
- $35 (first), $45 (second)
- Free for first class, MVP Gold, or co-branded credit card holders
- Size/Weight: 50 lbs, 62 inches
- Special Deal: Kids’ gear (car seats, strollers) fly free
6. JetBlue Airways
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (except Blue Basic: personal item only)
-
Checked Bags:
- Blue Basic: Not included
- Standard fare: From $35 (first), $50 (second)
- Elite Perks: Mosaic members get 1 free bag
- Weight Limit: 50 lbs
7. Spirit Airlines
-
Carry-on: None included
- Personal item only (must fit under seat)
- Carry-on fees start at $40–$60 depending on route/time
-
Checked Bags:
- Starts at $40–$70 depending on weight (cheaper if booked online early)
- Weight Limit: 40 lbs (lower than average)
- Tips: Pack light and avoid surprise charges
8. Frontier Airlines
-
Carry-on: Not included in base fare
- Personal item only is free
- Carry-on and checked bags cost $40–$70+
-
Checked Bags:
- Pricing varies; cheaper online
- Weight limit: 40 lbs (extra charges for 41–50 lbs)
- Tip: Frontier’s fees add up fast—plan ahead
9. Allegiant Air
-
Carry-on: None included in base fare
- 1 personal item is free
- Carry-on fees: $25–$60+
-
Checked Bags:
- Prepaid online: $20–$50
- Airport check-in: More expensive
- Weight Limit: 40 lbs max (charges for 41+ lbs)
10. Hawaiian Airlines
- Carry-on: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item (free)
-
Checked Bags:
- Interisland: $25 (1st), $35 (2nd)
- Mainland: $30 (1st), $40 (2nd)
- First class & elite: 2 free bags
- Size/Weight: 50 lbs, 62 linear inches
11. Sun Country Airlines
-
Carry-on: 1 personal item (free)
- Carry-on and checked baggage cost extra unless upgraded
-
Checked Bags:
- $20–$40 depending on time of booking
- Weight Limit: 50 lbs
- Size Limit: 62 inches
12. Avelo Airlines
- Carry-on: Not included; personal item only
-
Carry-on and checked bags: Priced separately
- $40–$60 per bag depending on timing
- Checked Baggage Limit: 50 lbs max
13. Breeze Airways
-
Carry-on: Only 1 personal item included
- Carry-on bag: $35–$65
-
Checked Bags:
- $35–$65 each
- Weight Limit: 50 lbs standard
14. Boutique Air
- Carry-on: Small personal item only
-
Checked Bags:
- 1 bag included free (up to 50 lbs)
- Additional bag: $25
- Note: Tiny aircraft = tight baggage space
15. JSX (Semi-Private Jet Service)
- Carry-on: Included
-
Checked Bags:
- 2 free checked bags (up to 50 lbs each!)
- Extra Comfort: Premium experience with no baggage hassles
International Carriers
- Emirates: 2 checked bags free on many routes.
- British Airways: 1 checked bag included for economy on most international flights.
- Lufthansa: Similar rules depending on ticket type.
Special Baggage Considerations
Sports Equipment
Surfboards, golf clubs, skis—they’re allowed but often treated as oversized or special baggage. Expect fees.
Musical Instruments
Allowed in the cabin if small enough, or they’ll need to be checked (with care). Some airlines let you buy a seat for it!
Medical Equipment
Usually free and allowed in addition to your carry-on. Still, check with your airline in advance.
How Frequent Flyer Status Affects Baggage Allowance
If you fly often and hold elite status, congrats!
You may get:
- Free checked bags
- Priority boarding
- Extra weight allowance
Pro Packing Tips to Beat Airline Baggage Fees
Weigh Before You Go
Invest in a luggage scale. A few pounds over can mean $100 extra!
Use Compression Packing Cubes
The UUH luggage interior fits compression cubes like a glove.
Wear Bulky Items
Jackets, boots, sweaters? On your body, not in the bag.
Max Out Personal Item Space
A backpack with a laptop, charger, snacks, and travel docs = clutch.
Use a Matching Set
With the UUH luggage set, you’ll avoid overpacking and make a stylish airport impression.
UUH Carry-On/Medium/Large Check-In TSA Luggage Travel Rolling Suitcase with Tote Bag
UUH Hard Luggage Sets 4 piece ABS Suitcase Bag Traveling(20inch,24inch,28inch)
UUH Three piece Luggage Set 20/24/28 Inch TSA Lock Luggage with USB Port and Packing Cubes
Traveling with Kids: What You Can Bring
Airlines are generally family-friendly here:
- Strollers and car seats usually fly free.
- Diaper bags may count as a bonus item, not your carry-on.
Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees
Pack Light and Smart
Only bring what you really need. Rolling clothes saves space.
Use Compression Bags
They shrink your clothes down and make packing easier.
Weigh Your Bag Before You Leave Home
A cheap luggage scale can save you $100s in fees.
What Happens If Your Bag Is Overweight?
You'll pay extra—sometimes more than the cost of another plane ticket.
Options:
- Move items to your carry-on
- Trash something (we’ve all done it)
- Bite the bullet and pay the fee
Baggage Policies for International vs. Domestic Flights
International flights usually offer more generous baggage allowances—especially if you're flying long-haul. But beware of code-shared flights, where the baggage policy of the operating carrier applies.
What to Do If Your Baggage Is Lost or Delayed
First, don’t panic (we know, easier said than done).
Steps:
- File a report immediately at the baggage claim office.
- Get a reference number and contact info.
- Check if you’re entitled to compensation or reimbursement.
Conclusion
Baggage rules don’t have to be a nightmare. Once you understand the basic categories—carry-on, checked, and personal items—and the policies of your chosen airline, you’ll fly with less stress and fewer surprises. Pack smart, weigh your bags, and know your airline's rules inside and out.
FAQs
Can I take two carry-on bags?
Usually no, but you can take one carry-on and one personal item. Some airlines may allow a second carry-on if you upgrade or pay extra.
Are personal items and carry-ons the same thing?
Nope! A personal item goes under the seat; a carry-on goes in the overhead bin.
How do I avoid overweight baggage fees?
Weigh your bag at home, use packing cubes, and wear heavier items like coats or boots onboard.
Do all airlines allow one free checked bag?
Not all. Budget airlines rarely do, while international airlines often include one or two bags in the fare.
What happens if my bag gets lost?
File a report, keep your receipts, and track your claim. Most airlines will compensate for essentials and offer a settlement if your bag is never found.
