Get ready, travelers! Big changes are coming to carry-on rules in 2025, and you don’t want to be the one caught off guard. Airlines worldwide are cracking down on bag size, weight, and even what you can bring on board.
Oversized, overweight, or non-compliant bags risk being rejected at the gate—or slapped with expensive extra fees
But don’t worry—there’s good news. With some smart packing strategies (and possibly a new bag), you can still fly with what you need. Read on to discover how to stay within the new limits, avoid airport hassles, and breeze through security like a pro.
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Carry-On Size Rules for 2025
Say goodbye to those “slightly oversized” bags—airlines have finally agreed on a single standard carry-on size: 22 × 14 × 9 inches (56 × 36 × 23 cm). And yes, that includes handles and wheels.
Over 60% of popular carry-ons on the market today won’t meet these new specs, so it might be time to measure your current bag or shop for one that’s guaranteed to fit.
Those size-check bins at the gate? They’re getting an overhaul. Don’t expect to squeeze by with an extra inch or two anymore—if your bag doesn’t slide in, it’s heading to checked luggage, along with an extra fee.
Thinking about upgrading? You don’t need to spend a fortune—just make sure your new bag meets the 22 × 14 × 9 standard.
Weight Limits
Lighten up—literally! Along with size limits, airlines are more serious about weight than ever before. Most carriers cap carry-on bags at 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs). And they will check.
- Pack Smart: Choose lightweight clothes and travel-sized toiletries.
- Wear It: Put on your heaviest shoes and jacket during the flight.
- Know Exceptions: Some airlines allow extra weight for work-related gear or specialized electronics.
If your bag is too heavy at check-in, you’ll have to check it (and pay for it). So weigh your bag at home to dodge airport surprises.
Pro tip: If you carry a lot of camera gear or other electronics, ask about an airline’s media bag policy. Sometimes you can bring extra weight or an additional bag without paying over-limit fees.
What You Can Bring on Board
As of 2025, that “personal item” you’ve been stuffing under the seat just got smaller: it must now stay within 18 × 14 × 8 inches (45 × 35 × 20 cm). Overstuff it, and you’ll face a choice between checking it or leaving items behind.
- Measure First: Double-check your bag’s dimensions before you head to the airport.
- Choose Wisely: If your personal item is pushing the limit, consider a smaller bag or a slim backpack.
- Pack the Essentials: Prioritize important items (passport, wallet, keys, medication, small electronics) so you can keep them with you.
About Liquids: Rules are changing worldwide. Some airports are ditching the old 3-1-1 rule entirely, while others still enforce it. Play it safe by using travel-size bottles in a clear pouch unless you confirm your airport’s policy in advance.
Handy Reference Table
| Bag Type | Max Dimensions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Carry-On | 22 × 14 × 9 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm) | Includes handles & wheels. Over 60% of current bags won’t fit |
| Personal Item | 18 × 14 × 8 in (45 × 35 × 20 cm) | Must fit under the seat; strict enforcement in 2025 |
| Weight Limit | 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs), airline-dependent | Some check-in kiosks now have built-in scales |
Liquid Rules for Your Carry-On
You’ve heard the rumors—and they’re true. The familiar 3-1-1 rule is starting to disappear in certain locations. But it’s not a universal change yet.
- Full-Size Liquids: Allowed at some airports, but others stick to old rules.
- Pack Two Ways: If your first airport allows bigger liquids, pack them separately in a spot you can easily remove. If connecting through an airport with old rules, you can pull them out or toss them if necessary.
- Always Check Ahead: Each airport and airline might have different policies.
Don’t let confusing liquid regulations slow you down at security—be prepared for both the new and the old system.
New TSA Rules for Liquids in 2025
No More Extra Hand Sanitizer
The TSA has ended its temporary rule that let you bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag. Now, hand sanitizer follows the same 3.4-ounce limit as other liquids. You need to put it in your quart-sized clear bag with your other liquids, gels, and aerosols. Even tiny clip-on hand sanitizers must go in this bag.
Remember, TSA rules can change without warning. What’s allowed one day might not be the next. This keeps security measures unpredictable, which helps stop bad people from planning attacks. But it also means you should be ready for anything when you go through airport security.
If you’re not sure about an item, use the Ask TSA tool. You can send them a photo or link, and a real TSA agent will tell you if it’s allowed. This free service works through Instagram, Facebook, text, or X. It’s super helpful for checking things before you pack or buy them for your trip.
Electronics and Power
Your devices need to turn on when going through security. Got a dead phone or laptop? You could be in trouble. Here’s how to stay prepared:
- Charge Everything: Make sure phones, laptops, cameras, and tablets can power on if asked.
- Battery Limits:
- Power banks under 100 Wh are typically okay.
- 100–160 Wh often need airline approval.
- Over 160 Wh? They’re a no-go.
- Device Count: Most airlines limit you to 15–20 lithium battery devices (phones, earbuds, cameras, etc.).
- Cable Check: Keep charging cables in your personal item. You don’t want a dead device just before you board!
Smart Luggage Note: If your bag has a built-in battery, it needs to be removable. Otherwise, it won’t get past security. Make sure electronic locks can be opened manually if the battery is dead.
Smart Luggage Rules for 2025
“Smart” suitcases were all the rage—but airlines have adjusted their policies. The new standards for 2025 are:
- Removable Battery: If you can’t detach the battery, your bag isn’t coming on board.
- Tracking and Charging: GPS and USB charging features are generally allowed if the power source can be removed.
- Locking Mechanisms: Electronic locks are fine, but ensure you can unlock your bag without power.
Combine these rules with the new 22 × 14 × 9 dimension limit and 8–10 kg weight cap, and you might need a new “smart” bag. Plan accordingly!
Clever Overhead Bin Tactics
Overhead bin space is becoming premium real estate. Some airlines even assign bin spots by ticket type—meaning passengers in basic economy might find themselves out of luck.
- Board Early: Keep an eye on your boarding group and line up as soon as it’s called. First on the plane = first to stash your bag.
- Skip the Bin Race: Pick a carry-on that fits under the seat. This strategy guarantees your essentials stay with you, no matter how crowded the overheads get.
Remember, overhead bins are a battleground in 2025—plan your bag strategy or risk losing out.
What’s Coming Next
Expect even more shifts in air travel over the next few years. Here’s a quick look at what’s on the horizon:
- New Universal Size: Almost all airlines will enforce 22 × 14 × 9 inches across the board for carry-ons.
- Stricter Weight Checks: Built-in scales at check-in kiosks and gates will become more common.
- Personal Item Crackdowns: 18 × 14 × 8 inches is the new normal for items under the seat.
- Evolving Liquid Rules: 3-1-1 might vanish completely—but not all airports are on the same timeline.
- Enhanced Security Requirements: More thorough electronics checks, possibly more battery restrictions.
- Assigned Overhead Space: More airlines could start charging for or assigning overhead bin space based on fare type.
Keep these changes in mind when booking flights, and always double-check your airline’s specific policies before you go. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to avoid surprises at the gate. Safe travels!
I have been traveling around the world by air since the early 70s and living overseas too. I worked for British Airways for a number of years and I am also a private pilot. About Me
