Personal Item vs Carry-On: What’s the Difference? (2025)

✅ A personal item (18 × 14 × 8 in typical) fits under the seat, while a carry-on (22 × 14 × 9 in typical) goes in the overhead bin. Both are included in most U.S. fares.

TypeMax Size (inches)PlacementNotes
Carry-On22 × 14 × 9Overhead binLarger suitcase or roller
Personal Item18 × 14 × 8Under seatBackpack, tote, laptop bag

Gotchas

  • Basic Economy may allow only personal item.
  • Some airlines (Frontier, Spirit) charge for carry-ons.

Sources

United – Carry-On Baggage Policy
JetBlue – Carry-On Rules