2025 Carry-On Size Guide for Low-Cost Airlines Worldwide

Avoid extra fees and hassles when flying low-cost airlines in 2025 by knowing the carry-on rules upfront. Airlines are stricter than ever with size and weight limits, so packing smart is key. Here's what you need to know:

• Standard Carry-On Dimensions: 18–22" (L) x 14–16" (W) x 8–10" (H)
• Weight Limits: 15–22 lbs (7–10 kg), depending on the airline
• Personal Items: Small bags like laptop cases or purses must fit under the seat.

Quick Tips:

• Use vacuum compression bags to save space.
• Follow TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rule: max 3.4 oz containers in 1 quart-sized clear bag.
• Check your airline's specific rules to avoid surprises.

Pro Tip: Always double-check airline policies before your trip - fees and rules vary by carrier.

Airline Carry-On Rules for 2025: Don't Get Caught - Your Carry-On Might Be REJECTED

Key Carry-On Rules

Knowing the carry-on rules for low-cost airlines can save you from unexpected fees or hassles.

Size and Weight Rules

Carry-on bags usually need to meet these dimensions:

• Length: 18–22 inches
• Width: 14–16 inches
• Height: 8–10 inches

Weight limits typically fall between 15–22 pounds (7–10 kg). Consider lightweight options like Titantrek's vacuum compression backpacks to stay within these restrictions.

Personal Items vs. Carry-Ons

Low-cost airlines generally allow one personal item in addition to your carry-on. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and can include:

• Laptop bags (around 16 x 12 x 6 inches)
• Small backpacks
• Purses or briefcases

Liquid Packing Rules

The TSA's 3-1-1 rule is still in place for 2025:

• 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per container
• 1 quart-sized clear plastic bag
• 1 bag per passenger

To make packing easier, opt for travel-sized liquids or solid alternatives like shampoo bars and solid deodorant. Keep your clear bag accessible for security checks. Medications and baby formula are exceptions to these rules, but you may need proper documentation for them.

Regional policies may add specific requirements, so always double-check before traveling.

Rules by World Region

Carry-on policies differ around the world, with variations in size, weight, and fees depending on the region.

North American Airlines

Low-cost airlines in North America have a range of rules:

• Spirit Airlines: Allows a small personal item for free but charges for standard carry-ons.
• Frontier Airlines: Charges for carry-ons unless pre-booked.
• Southwest Airlines: Offers both a personal item and carry-on for free, with a generous weight allowance.
• Allegiant Air: Enforces strict size limits and applies fees for carry-ons.

Make sure to review your airline's specific policies before flying.

European Airlines

Budget carriers in Europe are known for their strict carry-on limits:

• Ryanair: Permits a small personal bag for free, with larger carry-ons available only through priority boarding.
• EasyJet: Requires carry-ons to fit under the seat unless you pay for additional baggage.
• Wizz Air: Offers upgrades for passengers needing larger bags.

Always check the most up-to-date guidelines before your trip.

Asia-Pacific Airlines

In the Asia-Pacific region, airlines often combine weight limits for carry-ons and personal items:

• Airlines like AirAsia, Jetstar, Scoot, and IndiGo emphasize weight compliance.

Packing efficiently is key - using tools like Titantrek's vacuum compression backpacks can help you maximize space while staying within weight limits.

sbb-itb-b1567d8

Smart Packing Methods

Packing smartly for a carry-on not only helps you meet airline restrictions but also ensures you make the most of the limited space available. These tips work hand-in-hand with the carry-on rules mentioned earlier and can help you navigate changing airline policies.

Selecting a Carry-On Bag

Pick a bag that fits within airline size and weight limits, while offering practical features like TSA-approved locks, waterproof materials, multiple compartments, and compression options. These elements make it easier to comply with carrier rules across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

For example, the Titantrek Atlas Vault backpack is a solid choice. It includes a vacuum compression system to reduce clothing bulk. In January 2025, user Ahmad Harris shared:

"vacuum system works perfectly and the pump is powerful" ^[1]

Space-Saving Techniques

Here are some ways to make the most of your carry-on:

• Roll your clothes to save space and avoid wrinkles.
• Use vacuum compression systems to shrink clothing volume.
• Organize with packing cubes for better categorization and compact storage.

In December 2024, Chandler Breitenberg highlighted the benefits of these features:

"Very wide and seems good material... Many holes to put clothes or things from our laptop. I ordered it with the air system and it works super fast and it shows good quality... The padlock works well. Small instructions also come about the suitcase, the air system and the padlock." [2]

Fixing Oversize Issues

If your carry-on is too large or heavy, try these strategies:

1. Redistribute Weight

Move heavier items like electronics to your personal item to balance the load.

2. Compress Further

Take advantage of compression features to reduce the size of your items even more. In January 2025, Christelle O'Reilly commented:

"Fantastic...very practical and is as is the photo! Really worth it! The same I buy another." [3]

3. Strategic Repacking

Remove anything unnecessary or wear your bulkier clothing items when boarding.

Airline Policy Chart

Here's a quick guide to March 2025 size restrictions, weight limits, and fees for major airlines.

Size and Fee Table

Important Notes:

• Fees depend on your route and when you book.
• Measurements must include wheels and handles.
• Gate fees are higher than online rates.
• Weight limits apply to all carry-on items combined.

Regional Trends:

• North America: Airlines allow heavier bags compared to other regions.
• Europe: Size limits are more consistent across carriers.
• Asia-Pacific: Weight restrictions are stricter than in other regions.
• Budget Airlines: Many now charge for full-size carry-ons.

Use this chart to compare policies and pack smarter for your trip.

Conclusion

Airlines are tightening their size and weight restrictions, making smart packing more important than ever.

Vacuum compression technology can help you make the most of your carry-on space. The Titantrek Atlas Vault, for instance, has earned a 4.88/5 rating. As Ahmad Harris shared in January 2025:

"Arrived in reasonable time, seems of very good quality of materials, lots of compartments for all eventualities, very well organized, vacuum system works perfectly and the pump is powerful." ^[1]

To stay ahead, consider these tips:

• Choose luggage that complies with the strictest airline size limits.
• Use vacuum compression to increase your packing space.
• Keep an eye on airline rules to avoid extra fees.

Related Blog Posts

• 7 Essential Packing Tips for Carry-On Only Travel
• Common Travel Bag Problems and Their Solutions
• TSA Carry-On Size Rules Explained
• Airline Carry-On Size Rules: What to Know