Best Airline for Carry-On Bags 2026

Southwest and Delta are the most carry-on-friendly major US airlines. Spirit and Frontier charge for every bag including carry-ons.

• #1 Southwest: 24×16×10 in, always free, 2 free checked bags (Grade: A+)
• #2 Delta: 22×14×9 in, free on all fares including Basic Economy (Grade: A)
• #3 JetBlue: Free on most fares, Even More Space seats, free Wi-Fi (Grade: B+)
• #4–6 Alaska/United/American: Free on non-Basic fares; Basic Economy excludes carry-on (Grade: B)
• #7–8 Frontier/Spirit: Carry-on costs $29–89, free personal item only (Grade: D)

See also: Delta vs Southwest · American vs Southwest · Carry-on weight limits