Sun Country Airlines Carry-On Size & Baggage Rules (2026)
If you’re flying with Sun Country Airlines for the first time, the baggage rules can feel a bit different from traditional carriers. This airline follows a “pay for what you use” model, which means your carry-on baggage, luggage size, and overall baggage allowance depend on what you choose during booking. Knowing the exact carry-on size, cabin baggage size, and personal item rules ahead of time helps you plan smarter and avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.
Sun Country Airlines Carry-On Luggage Size & Weight Limits
Here’s a clear breakdown of the permitted dimensions and weight limits:
| Baggage Type | Size (cm) | Size (inches) | Weight | Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-on bag (Overhead) | 61 x 41 x 28 cm | 24 x 16 x 11 in | 35 lbs (15.8 kg) | 1 (paid) |
| Personal item | 43 x 33 x 23 cm | 17 x 13 x 9 in | Not specified | 1 (free) |
Data verified from official airline sources.
Source: Sun Country Airlines Official Policy
Sun Country Airlines Carry-On & Baggage Fees
| Baggage Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Personal item | Free / Included |
| Carry-on bag | Varies by route and booking time |
| Checked bag | Varies by route and booking time |
Sun Country clearly states that baggage costs increase the later you add them—booking online is cheapest, while adding bags at the gate is the most expensive.
Gate & Pricing Behavior
- Bags are cheapest when booked during reservation
- Prices increase:
- During check-in
- At the ticket counter
- Highest at the gate
- A $10 gate handling fee applies if baggage is added at the gate
Oversized & Overweight Baggage Fees
Sun Country Airlines applies additional charges if your checked baggage exceeds the standard weight limit of 50 lbs (22.6 kg) or the maximum size of 62 linear inches.
For Departures On or After September 3, 2025
| Weight Range | Additional Fee |
|---|---|
| 51–60 lbs | +$25 |
| 61–70 lbs | +$50 |
| 71–80 lbs | +$75 |
| 81–90 lbs | +$100 |
| 91–99 lbs | +$125 |
Oversized Bags
- Bags over 63 linear inches: +$100
- Special sporting equipment: +$100
Important Restrictions
- Bags over 100 lbs are not accepted at all
- Bags over 80 linear inches are not accepted
- Bags 70 lbs+ are not allowed on flights to/from:
- Canada
- Jamaica
- Puerto Rico
If you’ve flown with other airlines before, you’ll quickly notice that Sun Country sits closer to ultra-low-cost carriers in terms of baggage rules. For example, Spirit’s carry-on size limits and Frontier’s baggage policy are similarly strict when it comes to paying for overhead bags. On the other hand, airlines like Southwest Airlines still include a carry-on in the base fare, which makes a noticeable difference at the airport.
Carry-On Dimensions & Size Restrictions for Sun Country Airlines
When it comes to carry-on luggage size, Sun Country keeps things simple but strict.
Your overhead bag must not exceed 24 x 16 x 11 inches (61 x 41 x 28 cm). These dimensions include handles and wheels, so don’t forget to factor those in. The bag also needs to fit inside the airline’s sizer box at the airport.
For your personal item, the allowed size is smaller—17 x 13 x 9 inches (43 x 33 x 23 cm)—and it must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
A key detail many travelers miss: overhead bin space is limited. Even if your bag meets the permitted dimensions, it could still be gate-checked if bins are full.
Carry-On Weight Limit & Baggage Allowance
Sun Country Airlines sets a 35 lbs (15.8 kg) weight limit for carry-on bags stored in the overhead bin.
Here’s how the baggage allowance works:
- 1 personal item: Always included in your ticket
- 1 carry-on bag: Only if purchased separately
- Checked bags: Optional and charged per bag, per direction
Unlike some airlines, there’s no bundled carry-on included in standard fares. If you don’t pre-purchase your carry-on, you won’t be allowed to use overhead storage.
Personal Item Size & Carry-On Bag Allowance
Every passenger is entitled to bring one personal item for free.
This item can be:
- A backpack
- A purse
- A small duffel bag
But the rule is strict—it must fit under the seat. If it doesn’t, it may be treated as a paid carry-on or even checked.
Important note: Sun Country does not specify a weight limit for personal items. However, you should still be able to lift and store it safely without assistance.
Carry-On Size Restrictions & Rules
Sun Country Airlines enforces its size restrictions quite clearly:
- Your carry-on must fit the sizer box at the airport
- Overhead bins are only for travelers who paid for carry-on
- If your bag doesn’t meet the size requirements at the gate, it will be checked
- Additional charges may apply if your bag is oversized
Another important rule: if you buy your carry-on at the gate, a $10 gate handling fee is added on top of standard charges.
A lot of confusion usually comes from understanding what actually qualifies as cabin baggage. If you’re unsure whether your bag counts, this article on what counts as carry-on luggage breaks it down clearly. It also helps to understand the difference between a cabin bag and an under-seat item, which is explained well in this carry-on vs personal item guide.
Maximum Carry-On Size Allowed by Sun Country Airlines
The maximum allowed size for carry-on luggage is:
- 24 x 16 x 11 inches (61 x 41 x 28 cm)
- Maximum weight: 35 lbs (15.8 kg)
Anything beyond this will not be accepted as cabin baggage and must be checked.
Overhead Bin Reality
Even if your carry-on meets the allowed size:
- Overhead space is limited
- If bins are full:
- Your bag will be checked automatically
- No guarantee of cabin storage even if you paid
Carry-On Enforcement Rule
If you pre-purchased a carry-on but:
- It doesn’t fit in the sizer at the gate
Then:
- It will be checked
- Additional fees may apply
Special Allowances
Active U.S. Military
- 1 free carry-on
- 2 checked bags (up to 100 lbs each)
- Oversize fees waived for first two checked bags
Credit Card Benefit
- Sun Country Visa cardholders get:
- 50% off first checked bag (if booked online)
Unique Airline-Specific Rules
- Bags are:
- Charged per person, per direction, per bag
- Non-refundable
- If traveling with 4+ checked bags, you must arrange it in advance
- All bags must have clearly labeled names
- Airline can refuse bags deemed unsafe or unsuitable
How Strict Is Sun Country Airlines With Carry-On Size?
Based on real traveler experiences, Sun Country is moderately strict—especially compared to full-service airlines.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Gate checks are common: Staff often ask passengers to place bags in the sizer
- Paid carry-ons are enforced: No payment = no overhead bin access
- Limited overhead space: Even compliant bags may be checked if bins fill up
One thing frequent flyers notice is that enforcement tends to be tighter on fuller flights, particularly on routes from busy hubs like Minneapolis.
Sizing is another area where travelers often get caught off guard, especially with airlines that use sizer boxes at the gate. If you’re comparing measurements, this carry-on size in cm vs inches guide can help you convert dimensions properly. And since Sun Country has a defined weight limit, it’s also worth checking how other airlines handle this in this carry-on weight limits guide.
Carry-On Rules for Domestic vs International Flights
Sun Country Airlines mostly operates within the U.S. and nearby destinations. The carry-on size rules remain the same across routes.
However, there are a few differences to keep in mind:
- Checked bag restrictions may vary by destination
- Bags over 70 lbs are not accepted on flights to/from certain regions like Canada, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico
- International routes may have stricter enforcement due to limited aircraft space
But in terms of carry-on luggage size and personal item rules, the policy stays consistent.
For international or multi-airline trips, baggage rules can vary more than expected. Even though Sun Country keeps its carry-on size consistent, global standards differ, which is why this international carry-on size guide is useful when you’re flying across regions. If your trip involves connections, you might also want to compare with airlines like Air Canada or British Airways to avoid mismatched baggage rules.
What Happens If Your Carry-On Exceeds Size or Weight Limits?
If your bag exceeds the permitted dimensions or weight:
- It will be checked at the gate
- You’ll pay higher airport or gate fees
- A $10 handling fee may apply if purchased at the gate
Also, if your bag doesn’t fit the sizer—even if you prepaid—it can still be downgraded to checked baggage with extra charges.
Carry-On Allowance by Fare Class (Economy vs Business)
Sun Country Airlines does not operate traditional business class cabins. Instead, it offers seat upgrades like:
- Best seats
- Exit row seats
- Standard seats
These upgrades do not automatically include extra baggage allowance.
However, there are a few exceptions:
- Active U.S. military:
- 1 free carry-on
- 2 free checked bags (up to 100 lbs each)
- Sun Country Visa cardholders:
- 50% discount on the first checked bag (when booked online)
Additional Baggage Rules You Should Know
Here are a few airline-specific details worth noting:
- Overhead storage is limited—early boarding increases your chances
- Bags are priced per person, per direction, and are non-refundable
- If you bring 4 or more checked bags, you must arrange it in advance
- Bags over 80 linear inches or 100 lbs are not accepted at all
- Sporting equipment may replace a checked bag or incur extra fees
FAQs About Sun Country Airlines Carry-On Size
What is the carry-on luggage size for Sun Country Airlines?
The carry-on size is 24 x 16 x 11 inches (61 x 41 x 28 cm), with a weight limit of 35 lbs.
What size carry-on bag is allowed?
You can bring one overhead bag within the permitted dimensions if you purchase the carry-on option.
What is the maximum carry-on size?
The maximum allowed size is 24 x 16 x 11 inches, including handles and wheels.
Does Sun Country Airlines have size restrictions?
Yes, both personal items and carry-ons must meet strict size limits and fit in designated storage areas.
What is the personal item size allowed?
The personal item must not exceed 17 x 13 x 9 inches and must fit under the seat.
How strict is Sun Country Airlines with carry-on baggage?
They are fairly strict, especially at the gate where bags are checked using sizer boxes.
What happens if my carry-on is oversized?
It will be checked at the gate, and additional fees—including handling charges—may apply.
Final Thoughts
Sun Country Airlines follows a clear but pay-as-you-go baggage model. Your free allowance includes only a personal item, while carry-on and checked bags come at an extra cost. The airline is consistent with its size restrictions, and enforcement at the airport is real especially for overhead luggage.
If you’re planning to fly with them, the smartest move is simple: measure your bag, book your baggage early, and don’t rely on last-minute flexibility.
