There is not one universal carry-on size limit in the U.S. TSA says the size rules vary by airline, so the airline is the final authority. FAA notes that many airlines use 45 linear inches total, which means height plus width plus depth.
That means the safest answer is: check your airline before you fly. A bag that fits one airline’s overhead bin rules may be too large for another.
Two practical tips:
- Keep your personal item small enough to fit under the seat
- Remember that liquids still have to follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule
If you are on a tight connection or flying a smaller plane, being slightly under the limit is safer than trying to squeeze in a bag that barely fits.
Sources
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