Delta Airlines carry-on rules can be confusing—especially in 2025. If you’re flying soon and trying to pack light, you’re not alone. Between vague size charts and the fear of gate-checking, figuring out what actually fits under the seat can feel like a game of Tetris. This guide cuts through the fine print—with Delta’s latest carry-on and personal item dimensions, plus 7 smart bag combos that meet their 2025 rules.
Delta’s 2025 Carry-On & Personal Item Rules
- Carry-On Bag: Max 22” x 14” x 9” (56 x 35 x 23 cm)
- Personal Item: Must fit under the seat. Suggested dimensions: up to 18” x 14” x 8”
- Weight Limits: Delta does not impose weight limits for carry-on items within the U.S., but they must be light enough to lift into the overhead bin.
Your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Backpacks, laptop bags, purses, and small totes are typically accepted.
Pro tip: If you pack strategically, your personal item can hold just as much as a carry-on.
7 Carry-On + Personal Item Combos That Work for Delta
Each of these pairs meets Delta’s carry-on and underseat size requirements, giving you max packing power without extra fees.
1. Coolife Hardside Spinner + Bagsmart Tote Bag
Spinner: 21.5″ x 14″ x 9″
Tote: 16.1″ x 6.1″ x 12.2″
This pairing is sleek, functional, and Delta-compliant. The Coolife spinner is compact and lightweight, while the beige BAGSMART tote features a padded laptop sleeve and trolley strap for easy stacking.
2. LUGGEX Carry-On Hardside + Away Everywhere Duffel
Hardside: 22″ x 14.5″ x 9.3″
Tote: 16.1″ x 6.1″ x 12.2″
A minimalist spinner with a structured underseat tote that won’t topple over. This combo is durable, stylish, and designed for smooth airport navigation.
3. Samsonite Freeform Spinner + Wandering Nature Puffer Tote
Spinner: 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10″ (double-check before flying)
Tote Bag: 12.2″ x 15.7″ x 6.3″
If you need max capacity with soft padding and a feminine look, this combo delivers.
4. MATEIN Travel Backpack + Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner
Backpack: 18″ x 12″ x 7.8″
Spinner: 21.6″ x 14.8″ x 9″
Perfect for digital nomads. Keep tech in the backpack and clothes in the spinner.
5. DELSEY Paris Chatelet + DELSEY Paris Chatelet Tote
Spinner: 22.75″ x 15″ x 10″
Tote: 20″ x 13″ x 7″
Chic and structured, with a feminine silhouette and vegan leather details.
6. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside + Travelpro Maxlite Underseat Tote
Carry-On: 22″ x 14″ x 9″
Tote: 11″ x 18″ x 8″
One of the roomiest softside combos that still fit Delta’s dimensions. Great for longer trips.
7. Briggs & Riley Carry On Spinner + Briggs & Riley Expandable Tote Bag
Spinner: 22″ x 14″ x 9–11.5″
Tote: 17.52″ x 7.52″ x 13.54″
Professional and polished. The spinner expands when needed, and the tote keeps its shape and fits neatly under the seat.
Best Packing Cubes to Maximize These Bags
To really make these combos work, you need smart packing tools. These travel cubes fit easily in both the carry-on and personal item:
- BAGAIL 6-Set Compression Packing Cubes – Ideal for spinners and weekender bags
- Veken 8-Piece Lightweight Cubes – Great starter set with laundry bag and shoe bag
- Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes – Best for tech-savvy and compact packers
- Amazon Basics Slim Cubes – Fit well in underseat totes and laptop bags
FAQs: Delta Packing Questions Answered
Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on on Delta?
Yes—if the backpack fits under the seat in front of you, it counts as your personal item.
What happens if my personal item is too big?
Gate agents may ask you to check it. Soft bags like duffels are more forgiving than hard-shell personal items.
Does Delta weigh carry-on bags?
Not on U.S. domestic flights—but make sure it’s easy to lift into the overhead bin.
What’s the best underseat bag for Delta?
Look for bags under 18″ x 14″ x 8″ with soft sides and a trolley sleeve. Duffels and structured totes work best.
Need more airline-specific packing tips?
Check out our full series:
- United Airlines Personal Item Size Guide
- JetBlue Personal Item Picks
- Underseat Luggage Size Chart for All Airlines
Pack smart, skip the fees, and fly confident with The Travel Yard.
