Does Carry-on Have a Weight Limit?

You may already know that most airlines are strict about their carry-on size limits, but what about a heavy suitcase? Does carry-on have a weight limit? And what will happen if you showed up at the airport with a heavy carry-on?

Here is the short answer: Generally many airlines have a carry-on weight, typically ranging from 7 kg to 12 kg (15/ 26 lbs) especially international and low cost airlines, while major U.S. airline often do not have strict weight limits, Instead, they simply require that your carry-on bag must be light enough for you to place it in the overhead compartment without assistance.

Below we have a list of airline carry-on weight limits and explain why most U.S airlines do not have a strict carry-on weight rule.

Let’s kick things off.

Why Do Some Airlines Have Carry-On Weight Limits?

A survey by afacwa.org ( the Association of Flight Attendants–Communications Workers) of America found that 33% of flight attendants had been hit by falling carry-on bags from overhead bins within a year.

So airlines set carry-on weight limits mainly to make sure everybody is safe and run things smoothly.

Carrying heavy bags can be difficult for passengers and flight attendant to lift them into overhead bins, which may slow down boarding and increase the risk of injuries.

Some airplanes also have limits on how much weight can be stored in the overhead compartments. 

To avoid problems, many international airlines enforce strict carry-on weight limits.

This is also why many U.S airlines require passengers to be able to lift their carry-on bag without assistance.

Plus, some airlines use carry-on weight limits to make a bit more money. If your bag is too heavy, they’ll treat it like a checked bag, so you’ll have to pay extra for it.

Business is business.

What Is The Carry-on Weight Limits For U.S Airlines?

Even though most airlines operating within the US don’t weigh carry-on luggage, they still expect passengers to bring a lightweight suitcase.

So make sure you don’t take a suitcase that you cannot handle yourself.

Here are some answers from several U.S airlines.

Please note that the TSA ( The guys inspecting bags at the airport ) are not responsible for enforcing carry-on weight and size restrictions. If you’re unsure about what items are allowed in your carry-on, you can refer to our list of prohibited items or visit the TSA website for more information.

Tip

Typical Carry-On Weight Limits Around the World

Carry-on weight limits vary depending on the airline and region.

Here are some typical limits travelers may encounter:

These limits can vary, so it’s always best to check your airline’s baggage policy before traveling.

Carry On Weight Limits For Other International Airlines:

Select an airline to find out whether they have a carry-on weight limit or not:

Does Carry-on Have a Weight Limit?

Most US airlines do not routinely weigh carry-on luggage, especially on domestic flights.

However, many international airlines and low-cost carriers may weigh your carry-on bag  at the check-in counter or boarding gate.

In most cases the airlines agent will just look at the bag size, and if it looks bulky.

What Happens If Your Carry-On Is Too Heavy?

If your carry-on bag is above the airline weight limit, this what to expect at the airport:

• Remove some items from the bag
• Transfer items to your personal item
• Check the bag at the counter or gate
• Pay a checked baggage fee

Note that in some cases even if your bag is within the size and weight limits, the airline staff may ask you to gate check in your carry-on bag, if there is no space left in the overhead bin, especially in full flights.

Do Personal Items Have Weight Limits?

Whether you bring a backpack, a purse, a laptop bag, a small tote bag, most airlines do no have a weight limit for personal items.

As long as your personal item fits under the seat in front of you, there is nothing to worry about.

But it is worth mentioning that some airlines do actually have a weight limits for their personal items, like TAP AIR Portugal.

Tips To Reduce Carry-on Weight

If you want to skip any problems with carry-on weight limits, there some helpful tips  to keep in mind:

• Chooe a lightweight suitcase
• Wear your heavy items like jackets or boots until you board the airplane
• Place electronics in your personal item
• Packing travel-size toiletries
• Weigh your bag before heading to the airport
• Use this clothes weight calculator to make sure your carry-on is not heavy.

Final Thoughts

The answer to the question “does carry-on have a weight limit?” Is not a simple yes or no.

But generally most airlines do not have the weight limit for carry-on luggage on domestic flights, especially within the United States.

However, you should pay closer attention to carry-on weight limits when traveling on international flights. 

If your bag is heavy and exceeds the allowed weight, you might end up paying unexpected charges or have your bag gate checked at the airport.

That’s the last thing you want when traveling.

To help you with that I have built several luggage calculators that you can use to check your airline weight and size limits, and even the weight of your bag.

Give them a try.

I hope this helps.

Happy travels 

FAQs: Does Carry-on Have a Weight Limit?

• How much does a carry-on usually weigh?
  If empty, a carry-on suitcase usually weighs about 6.5 lb (2.9 kg). When packed, it typically weighs between 15 and 25 lb (7–11 kg). However, if you place heavy items inside it, the bag may weigh more.
• What happens if you exceed the carry-on weight limit?
  If your carry-on is above the airline weight limit, you may have to remove some items, transfer them to your personal item, or check the bag at the counter or gate and pay a checked baggage fee.
• Are carry-on weight limits enforced?
  On many domestic flights, especially in the United States, carry-on bags are rarely weighed. However, many international airlines and low-cost carriers enforce weight limits and may weigh bags at the check-in counter or boarding gate.
• Is it OK to carry heavy bags?
  It is generally not recommended to travel with a very heavy carry-on bag. Most airlines require passengers to be able to lift their own bags into the overhead bin without assistance.
• How can I reduce my carry-on weight?
  To reduce carry-on weight, pack only essential items, choose lightweight luggage, wear heavy clothing while boarding, and place heavier electronics in your personal item when possible.
• Do low-cost airlines have stricter carry-on weight limits?
  Yes. Budget airlines often set lower carry-on limits, usually between 7 kg and 10 kg (15–22 lb), and they may enforce them more strictly by weighing bags at the check-in counter or boarding gate.
• What is the lightest carry-on luggage?
  Ultralight carry-on suitcases made from materials like nylon or polycarbonate can weigh around 1.5 to 2 kg (3–4.5 lb) when empty. Choosing lightweight luggage helps travelers stay within airline carry-on weight limits.
• Do duty-free bags count toward carry-on weight?
  Sometimes. Many airlines count duty-free purchases as part of your carry-on allowance, especially on low-cost carriers. Some airlines allow a small duty-free bag in addition to your carry-on and personal item, but policies vary by airline.

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Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.