7 Ways to Avoid Fees with 2025 Carry-On Updates

Travelers, buckle up! The world of air travel is undergoing some of its most significant changes yet in 2025, especially when it comes to carry-on luggage. If you’re not prepared, you could face unexpected fees, gate-checking your bag, or even being denied boarding with your favorite suitcase. But don’t worry - this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the new carry-on rules, so you can breeze through airports like a pro and keep your travel stress-free.

1. The New Universal Carry-On Size

One of the biggest shake-ups in 2025 is the introduction of a universal carry-on size agreed upon by many airlines worldwide. The new standard size is:

22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. This measurement includes your bag's handles and wheels.

This sounds like a win for travelers - finally, one size fits all! However, here’s the catch: over 60% of the carry-on bags

currently on the market exceed these dimensions. So, your trusty suitcase might suddenly be too big.

Airports are upgrading their size-checking bins and enforcing these limits more strictly. If your bag doesn’t fit, you could be forced to gate-check it or pay hefty fees.

Pro Tip:

• Measure your carry-on now before your next trip.

• Consider investing in a newer, compliant bag designed specifically for these 2025 regulations.

• Look for lightweight, durable models that maximize packing space within the new limits.
  
  

2. Strict Carry-On Weight Limits Are Here to Stay

It’s not just about size anymore. Airlines are cracking down on carry-on weight limits, typically ranging from 8 to 10 kilograms (17 to 22 pounds).

Many airlines have installed scales at check-in kiosks and even at the gate to weigh your carry-on before you board. If your bag is overweight, expect fees or the hassle of rearranging your belongings in front of other passengers.

How to Pack Smart and Stay Under Weight Limits:

• Weigh your bag at home with a luggage scale before you leave.

• Use packing cubes and versatile clothing to reduce bulk.

• Wear your heaviest shoes and jackets on the plane to lighten your bag.

• If you carry electronics or specialized gear, check your airline’s policy on media or equipment bags, as some allow exceptions.
  
  

3. Personal Item Size Restrictions Tighten

Your personal item - whether a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack - must now fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. The new size limit is: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).

If your personal item exceeds this, you might be forced to check it at the gate, leading to inconvenience and possible fees.

Packing Advice:

• Choose a compact, structured bag that fits neatly under the seat.

• Pack only essentials in your personal item to avoid oversize issues.

• Consider bags designed specifically for airline personal item dimensions.
  
  

4. Liquid Restrictions Are Evolving - But Cautiously

The infamous 3-1-1 liquids rule (3.4 oz or 100 ml containers in a 1-liter bag) is slowly being phased out at some airports thanks to advanced scanning technology. This could eventually allow passengers to bring full-size liquid containers on flights.

However, this change is inconsistent across airports. Some have adopted the new rules, while others still enforce the traditional 3-1-1 limits.

How to Navigate Liquid Rules Safely:

• Always check the specific policies of the airport you're traveling through4. Rules can change frequently, so stay informed.

• Keep small travel-size bottles in an accessible pouch.

• If your departure airport allows larger liquids but a connecting airport doesn’t, pack larger bottles separately for easy removal or disposal.
  
  

5. Power Up: Electronics and Battery Rules Get Tougher

Dead devices at security checkpoints are a no-go. Your electronics must power on if requested during screening.

Here’s what you need to know about batteries and power banks:

• Power banks under 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed in carry-ons.

• Power banks between 100 and 160 Wh require airline approval.

• Power banks over 160 Wh are banned entirely.

• Airlines limit the number of lithium batteries or devices you can bring, usually between 15 and 20 items.
  

Essentials for Electronics:

• Always pack charging cables in your personal item.

• Check the watt-hour ratings of all devices and power banks before flying.

• Avoid carrying banned or oversized batteries to prevent delays or confiscation.
  
  

6. Smart Luggage Must Have Removable Batteries

Smart luggage with built-in batteries is popular, but airlines are strict: all built-in batteries must be removable.

If your smart suitcase’s battery cannot be removed, it will not be allowed on board.

What You Should Do:

• Verify the battery specifications of your smart luggage before traveling.

• If your bag doesn’t comply, consider upgrading to a model with removable batteries or use a traditional suitcase.
  
  

7. Winning the Overhead Bin Battle: Tips for Securing Space

With stricter carry-on rules, overhead bin space is becoming a fiercely contested commodity. Some airlines now assign overhead bin space by ticket class, giving premium passengers priority.

How to Ensure Your Bag Fits:

• Pack light with a smaller carry-on that easily fits the new size limits.

• Arrive early at the gate and board as soon as your group is called.

• Consider a carry-on that fits under the seat in front of you to avoid the overhead bin competition altogether.
  
  

Why These Changes Are Happening

These new rules aren’t arbitrary. Airlines and regulators are responding to:

• Safety concerns (especially regarding lithium batteries).

• Overcrowded overhead bins causing flight delays.

• The need to standardize policies globally to reduce confusion.

• The potential for increased revenue from checked bag fees.

While some travelers may see these changes as inconvenient, being informed and prepared is your best defense against surprises at the airport.

Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for 2025 Air Travel

The carry-on landscape is shifting dramatically in 2025. To avoid fees, delays, and stress:

• Measure and weigh your bags before every trip.

• Invest in luggage designed for the new universal size and weight limits.

• Stay updated on liquid and battery regulations for each airport.

• Pack smart, light, and strategically.

• Arrive early and board early to secure overhead bin space.

By adapting to these new rules, you’ll travel smarter, faster, and with less hassle. Safe travels and happy flying in 2025!

Citation:

https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/2025