An update on the primary carriers’ policies for bringing items onboard.
Airline policies concerning baggage restrictions can change frequently, making it difficult for travelers to keep up. If you’re planning to fly with any of the “Big Three” in the United States, here is a rundown of the airlines’ current policies on carry-on luggage.
American Airlines
American recently changed its carry-on baggage policy to allow travelers booked in Basic economy class to bring one free carry-on bag in addition to one personal item to all destinations. Bags must fit in the sizer at the airport and be no larger than the standard carry-on dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Additionally, soft-sided garment bags up to 51 inches are also allowed as carry-on bags.
Musical instruments may be considered carry-on bags or personal items, depending on how they are stowed. If placed in the overhead compartment, then the instrument is considered a carry-on. If stowed under the seat in front of the passenger, it is considered a personal item.
Diaper bags, breast pumps, soft-sided coolers for breast milk,child safety seats and strollers, and medical or mobility devices can be brought onboard and do not count against the limits for carry-on baggage and personal items.
Regional flights operated on small aircraft may not have enough overhead space for carry-on bags, so it may only be possible to bring a personal item on certain flights. In this instance, the airline will valet your bag and check it at the gate free of charge.
Delta Air Lines
All Delta passengers may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free. The standard dimensions for carry-on bags apply, and there is no weight limit except at airports located in Singapore, Beijing, and Shanghai. Personal items must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Otherwise, they must be stowed in the overhead compartment.
Strollers, wheelchairs, child safety seats, and assistive devices may be carried on for free and do not count against the limits for carry-on bags and personal items.
Like American Airlines, Delta also operates regional flights for which there may be limited space for carry-on baggage. It also offers the option to check a bag at the gate for free.
United Airlines
On United, travelers booked in basic economy class may bring one personal item for free, and a carry-on is allowed if flying to South America or across the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans from a departure point in the United States. All other bags must be checked. If you check a bag at the gate, the standard baggage fee applies plus an additional charge of $25.
Like the other two major carriers, mobility devices, car seats and strollers, diaper bags, and breast pumps are all allowed onboard for free and do not count against the limits on carry-on baggage and personal items. Musical instruments are considered carry-on if stored in the overhead bin, or a personal item if placed under the seat in front of you.
For short flights operating on small aircraft, a carry-on bag may be gate-checked for free. You can then retrieve your bag when you deplane, rather than picking it up at baggage claim.