Excited for your trip but not sure what will happen if your carry-on is one inch too big? And how big can a carry-on be?
Here is the short answer, most airlines have a luggage sizer at the airport to make sure bags fit within their size limits. If your carry-on is just an inch over, you might get away with it especially if it’s a soft sided bag that can squeeze into the sizer.
But if it’s two or three inches too big, there’s a good chance you’ll have to check it and pay the extra fee.
To help you avoid this scenario, I’ve put together everything you need to know about carry-on size limits, airline rules, and what to do if your bag is a little too big.
Let’s dive in.
What If Your Carry-on 1 Inch Too Big ?
Most commercial airline have a standard carry-on size of 22 inch x 14 inch x 9 inch ( approximately 56 cm x 35.50 cm x 23 cm), including handles, side pockets, and wheels.
Some airlines may vary by an inch or two, but these dimensions are the most common.
So, what happens if your bag is slightly over this size?
In most cases, if it’s just one inch too big, airline staff may turn a blind eye to it.
But if it’s two or three inches over, you’ll likely have to check it in.
Airlines have luggage sizers at the airport, and if your bag doesn’t fit inside, you’ll be required to check it.
Traveling with a backpack instead of a suitcase? You’re in luck, Backpacks often draw less attention from airline staff than rolling suitcases.
What Happens If Your Carry-On Is Too Big?
If your bag is too big, here’s what could happen:
- You might be charged an extra fee especially if you’re flying with a budget airline like Spirit or Ryanair.
- You may have to check your bag at the gate, meaning you’ll pick it up after your flight at baggage claim.
- If space runs out in the overhead bins, flight attendants may ask you to check your bag, even if it meets the size requirements.
Most major airlines won’t measure your bag unless it’s obviously oversized, but it’s always wise to stay within the allowed size to avoid any hassle.
Can a Duffel Bag Be a Carry-On?
Yes, a duffel bag can be a carry-on as long as it meets airline size limits (usually no larger than 22” x 14” x 9”).
Just make sure it’s well packed, gym bags or floppy duffels without compartments might be harder to fit in overhead bins.
You might also like: Is a Duffle Bag a Personal Item on Airlines?
What About Your Personal Item?
Your personal item like a purse, backpack, or laptop bag should fit under the seat in front of you.
If your purse is too big (more than 21 inches), it might count as a carry-on instead.
Final Thoughts
If your carry-on is slightly over the limit, you’ll probably be fine.
But to avoid stress, it’s always best to measure your bag before heading to the airport.
That way, you can breeze through check-in and enjoy your trip worry-free.
FAQs: Airline Carry-On Rules
A: It really depends on the airlines you are flying with, but mainly budget airlines that charge for carry-on are more strict with carry-on size because the more passengers pay for carry-on the more money they make.
A: If your airline allows it then yes, be aware that if you are flying with a stricter airline that allows only 21 inches, they may gate check in your bag.
A: If it won’t fit, the airline will “gate check” your bag, meaning it gets stored in the cargo hold, and you’ll pick it up after landing.
A: No, the TSA doesn’t check luggage size and weight as long as you’re not carrying any hazardous items or excessive amounts of liquids. So, there’s no need to worry about the weight or size of your bag as long as you follow the rules for their restricted items.
People also ask:
- How strict is American Airlines with carry?
- How strict is Delta with carry on size?
- Is JetBlue strict on carry on size?
- The Complete Airlines Standard Carry On Size Guide
