Your carry-on bag has to fit in the sizer. You know, that metal cage at the gate that looks like a medieval torture device for luggage? If your bag doesn’t fit, you’re checking it, and you’ll pay a fee. Most airlines allow a bag that’s 22 x 14 x 9 inches. That’s it. Not "roughly." Not "it’s soft-sided so it’ll squish." Exactly.
I’ve seen people ram their bags into that sizer with the force of a thousand suns. It’s embarrassing for everyone involved. Pro tip: buy a bag that actually matches the dimensions, and measure it yourself before you pack. The airline doesn’t care about your feelings or your bargain suitcase.
What Is Allowed In (and Prohibited From) Your Carry-on: The Ultimate
And the personal item? That’s your purse, small backpack, or briefcase. It must fit under the seat. If you bring a duffel bag that’s essentially a second suitcase, the gate agent will give you "the look." You know the one. It’s the look that says, "I’ve been doing this for seven hours, please just stop."
