Many airlines will allow you to bring a carry-on bag and personal item for free. However, some airlines may only allow a personal item that fits under your seat for free. Anything larger (e.g. a bag that's too big to fit under the seat but can fit into the overhead compartment) may require extra payment.
How can I avoid paying for a carry-on?
Don't let this throw you off look at the personal item dimensions. And take the largest bag that you possibly can within the airline's rules it has much more space to it than a purse or laptop would.
Is a backpack a free carry-on?
In most cases, backpacks are considered personal items as long as they fit under the seat in front of you. For example, if you use a backpack as a personal item and put it under the seat in front of you, you can then use a duffel as a carry-on bag as long as it's under the airline's size requirements.
How much does it cost to carry a bag on a plane?
What is included –the seat and a personal item, such as a laptop case or tote bag. Bought in advance, a carry-on item could run anywhere from $25 to $42, depending on the airline and flight duration –and at the gate, the same bag could cost up to $64 with Flair and $90 with Swoop, according to their websites.
Which airlines don’t charge for carry-on?
Fly Southwest whenever you can. It's the only major carrier in the U.S. that doesn't charge for checked or carry-on bags. Delta, American and Alaska, meanwhile, never charge for a carry-on.
Is it cheaper to take carry-on or suitcase?
Is it better to check luggage or carry on? Checking luggage means you do not have to carry it through the airport but there is always the risk of it being lost or damaged. It is cheaper to carry-on luggage and you can access your travel essentials during the flight or in the event of a lengthy layover.
Do you get charged for a carry-on bag?
What airlines do not charge for carry ons?
Fly Southwest whenever you can. It's the only major carrier in the U.S. that doesn't charge for checked or carry-on bags. Delta, American and Alaska, meanwhile, never charge for a carry-on.
What airlines offer free carry-on?
Carry-on luggage size and weight limits by airline
| Airline | Allowance |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item |
| Delta Air Lines | 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item |
| Frontier Airlines | 1 carry-on bag (fee varies by route) + 1 personal item |
| Hawaiian Airlines | 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item |
Do all flights include a carry-on?
It depends on the airline and the type of ticket that you buy and where you're flying. Most regular economy tickets on major carriers include a carry-on bag. However, on some low-cost airlines or when holding some basic economy tickets, you may pay an extra fee for a carry-on bag to go into the overhead bin.
Why are airlines charging for carry-on?
Charging for carry-on bags helps lower ticket prices by reducing the aircraft's load and saving fuel. Many airlines, including Spirit and Frontier, charge high fees for carry-on bags at the gate, increasing the cost of flying on these carriers.
Is it worth bringing a carry-on?
It's the right choice for when you need more packing space, especially if you plan to return home with large souvenirs and gifts. For longer trips of a month or more, checked luggage is the way to go unless you want to live within carry-on size limitations.
Can I just bring a carry-on?
Generally speaking, most airlines implement a maximum size policy of 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including wheels and handles. Your baggage allowance could also depend on your ticket type. Some basic economy tickets only allow for a personal item, such as a purse, rather than a piece of carry-on luggage.