Spring break is just around the corner, and millions of Americans are officially shifting into vacation mode. But as any seasoned traveler knows, booking the flight is only half the battle. Whether you're a total novice or a frequent flyer who could recite the TSA liquid rules in your sleep, navigating a busy airport can be taxing.
A good carry-on bag is your safety net. It keeps your in-flight entertainment and snacks within reach and ensures that you've got all the essentials at your destination even if your checked bag doesn't make it. From passports and prescriptions to electronics, basic toiletries, cash and a change of clothes, a good carry-on bag carries it all. But there's one more thing to consider.
It's always worth brushing up on the Transportation Security Administration's latest guidelines, along with the rules for your specific airline. A little research can help you sail through security without unnecessary hold-ups and delays. You can't control what TSA officers might flag, but you can control what you pack and how you pack it.
Here's how to load up your carry-on efficiently for any flight so you can breeze through TSA and get on with your flight.
For more travel tips, explore these travel essentials you need for every vacation and then take a look at this travel checklist. You should also read about the new Real ID requirement to get through airport security.
The best carry-on travel bags
Before you start packing, you'll have to find the right carry-on bag. Here are a few important things to keep in mind.
What size carry-on should you get?
The first and most important aspect to think about is size. Federal Aviation Administration regulations say carry-on items can't exceed dimensions of 22 by 14 by 9 inches, though you might find an inch or two of difference depending on the airline. The general rule is that it must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane.
Here's a quick reference for size limits for the most popular US airlines.
Carry-on items by airline
| Airline | Cabin | Maximum size |
|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | All | 55 x 40 x 23 cm; 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in |
| Alaska Airlines | All | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
| American Airlines | All | 56 x 36 x 23 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
| British Airways | All | 56 x 45 x 25 cm; 22 x 18 x 10 in |
| Delta Air Lines | All | 56 x 35 x 23 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
| Frontier Airlines | All | 60.96 x 40.64 x 25.4 cm; 24 x 16 x 10 in |
| Hawaiian Airlines | All | 55.9 x 35.5 x 22.9 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
| JetBlue Airways | All | 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
| Southwest Airlines | All | 60.9 x 40.6 x 25.4 cm; 24 x 16 x 10 in |
| Spirit Airlines | All | 56 x 46 x 25 cm; 22 x 18 x 10 in |
| United Airlines | All | 56 x 35 x 22 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in |
Carry-ons should have an easy access tech compartment
If you decide to bring electronics like a laptop, iPad, Kindle or other tablet on board, your carry-on should ideally have a separate, padded compartment for secure packing. Be sure these compartments are easily accessible, since at security checkpoints, the TSA will require you to remove your electronic devices and place them in the plastic X-ray tray.
Make sure your carry-on is comfortable on your back or shoulder
Remember, you'll need to lug your carry-on bag or suitcase across the airport and down long corridors, and you might even need to run with it so you don't miss your connection. Consider whether you need padded handles or cushioned straps or a backpack or a rolling suitcase for ease.
The general rule is that all carry-ons must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane.
How to pack your carry-on the right way
Though what to pack in your carry-on ultimately depends on your preferences, there are a few guidelines for the best way to pack your luggage:
- Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.).
- Pack the things you'll use the least at the bottom of the bag.
- Keep most of your valuables in your carry-on luggage, and store them in side compartments or safely padded around other items.
- Place valuables at the bottom of your bag, away from the opening.
- Keep your wallet, credit cards and cash in an inner pocket so they'll be harder to steal.
- Pack a small, separate bag for toiletries. (Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule: 3.4 ounces or less per container; all liquids must fit in one quart size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; one bag per passenger.)
- Roll your clothes tightly to save space in your luggage.
Sometimes you lose your luggage. It happens. Though it's frustrating, it's important to pack a spare set of clothes (including socks and underwear!) in your carry-on to hold you over until your bags are found and returned. Pack clothing that can easily be rolled up and put in the bottom of your bag.
Rolled clothing can save space in your tight bag or suitcase.
Essential items for your carry-on bag
There's some items that are just better in your carry-on luggage. If you do decide to check a bag, be sure to keep these items with you on the flight. Most of these carry-on essentials are items that would be hard to replace or purchase when you get to your destination.
- Prescriptions and medications
- Contact lenses or glasses
- Valuables like jewelry, wallets, passports, IDs and boarding passes
- Cameras and smartphones
- Entertainment like tablets, books and laptops
- Headphones to watch TV or movies if a longer flight
- Chargers for electronics
- Printed itinerary, or hotel and flight confirmations
Explore this complete guide for essential travel items you may forget to pack.
Place your larger electronics in secure yet easily accessible compartments, since you'll need to pull them out at TSA security checkpoints.
What you should never pack in your carry-on bag
The TSA has specific guidelines covering which items are banned from flights, and the agency takes those rules very seriously. In 2023 alone, the TSA screened more than 858 million passengers and crew members nationwide, and it confiscated a record number of firearms (6,737) and many other items. TSA policy says that individuals carrying weapons, especially loaded firearms, can face fines or criminal penalties.
These are some of the most commonly confiscated items:
- Firearms
- Fireworks
- Box cutters, utility knives and razors
- Bats, clubs and blades
- Swiss Army knives
If in doubt, always refer to the TSA's guidelines on packing for flights, to ensure you have safe and easy travels.
If you're planning a vacation soon and are stressed about packing or preparing, CNET has plenty of resources to help. Get ready for your next trip with these hacks and tips: