8 Things You Need to Know About JetBlue’s Carry-On Policy
JetBlue was my airline of choice for their non-stop flights from Long Beach to New York City. I loved how each seat had their own TV, which made those 5.5 hours fly by. (Pun intended.) I haven’t flown with them recently, but they came back on my radar while looking for flights to Amsterdam. Since I would only be traveling with a carry-on, I wanted to know the JetBlue carry-on size and personal item allowance. But I also came across other JetBlue carry-on rules that most people may not know.
1. JetBlue Carry-On Bags Are Free
Unlike Allegiant and Spirit, who charge passengers to bring carry-ons bags, JetBlue does not.
As of September 2024, all JetBlue fares include a carry-on bag (space permitting). This includes Blue Basic fares, which is their version of basic economy.
However, there is some fine print. Since basic economy passengers are the last group to board, there may not be space in the overhead bins. If that happens, they will have to check their bags (for free) at the gate.

2. The JetBlue Carry-On Size is Standard
JetBlue carry-on dimensions are 22 in x 14 in x 9 in (56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm). This is the same carry-on size as other major airlines, like Delta and American.
3. …But the JetBlue Personal Item Size is Not
If you thought United was the only airline with a weird personal item size, think again. JetBlue personal item dimensions are 17 in x 13 in x 8 in. Looking for a personal item bag for your next JetBlue flight? Check out this post.
4. JetBlue is Known for Being Strict with Carry-Ons
Even though the JetBlue carry-on size is standard, most carry-ons on the market are not. (It’s actually really annoying.) This leads to a lot of people asking “How strict is JetBlue with carry-on size?” And the answer is, stricter than most airlines. While a half inch may not matter, if your bag looks too big, the gate agent may make you check it for a fee.
5. There Are No Weight Restrictions for JetBlue Carry-Ons
Great news for chronic overpackers! Your JetBlue carry-on can be as heavy as you like. Kind of. While JetBlue doesn’t have set weight restrictions for carry-ons, the only requirement is that you can lift it into the overhead bin without assistance.
6. You Can Bring A Musical Instrument In Place of a Carry-On Item
This will be music to artists ears! Jetblue allows musical instruments as a carry-on. While the standard carry-on bag size does not apply to musical instruments, if it doesn’t fit or space is limited JetBlue will help you gate check it.
7. You Can Pack Some Sports Gear in Your Carry-On
Like sports? So does JetBlue, and they have a very robust carry-on policy for sports equipment to prove it. If you plan on being an activities guy or gal on your next trip, you can bring these sporty items in your carry-on:
- Dodge balls
- Bowling balls
- Drones
- Ice skates are allowed in JetBlue carry-ons, although they recommend you check them.
- Parachutes are allowed in JetBlue carry-ons, but you may have to unfold it in front of crewmembers. They also advise you to arrive at the airport 30 minutes earlier than normal.
- Javelins and vaulting poles (if you can break them down)
- Razor-like scooters
- Scuba gear (expect compressed gas cylinders)
- Skateboards
- Tennis rackets (but not if you’re going to Mexico)
If you bring a ball on board, they must be like the New England Patriots footballs: partially deflated.
And, in case you’re wondering, these sports items are only allowed in checked bags:
- Archery equipment
- Baseball bats
- Hockey and lacrosse sticks
- Hunting equipment (e.g., rifles, shotgun, pistols, ammunition)
- Paddles and oars
- Skimboards
8. Great Danes Can’t Fly in the Cabin, But Small Dogs and Cats Can
Sorry, Scooby. According to JetBlue’s pet policy, passengers can only bring small dogs or cats in the cabin. (For added emphasis, their website mentions “no large dogs” twice, in bold.)
Pets must be in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The pet carrier cannot exceed 17 in x 12.5 in x 8.5 in, it must be leak-proof and well ventilated.
Have you flown on JetBlue? Leave a comment with your experience!