Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Rules (2025 Guide)

Flying to Hawaii is already exciting, but before you even get to the islands, you need to know what you can and can’t bring on board. Hawaiian Airlines has its own set of carry-on rules, and while they’re pretty similar to other US airlines, there are a few details that can surprise you—especially if you’re traveling on one of their long international routes to Asia or the South Pacific.

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what Hawaiian Airlines allows for carry-on bags, personal items, and a few extra things you can bring for free. I’ll also cover baggage fees, overhead bin space tips, and answer some common questions people have before flying Hawaiian.

So if you’re packing for your next island getaway or heading back home to the mainland, this article will save you from last-minute stress at the gate.

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Size & Weight Allowance

Hawaiian Airlines allows one carry-on bag per passenger, and the rules are pretty straightforward.

• Maximum size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)
  (this includes wheels and handles, so don’t forget to measure those too)

• Weight limit: For most domestic flights within the US (including to and from Hawaii), there isn’t a strict weight limit. The main requirement is that you must be able to lift your bag into the overhead bin without assistance.

• International flights: If you’re flying to places like Japan, South Korea, Australia, or New Zealand, Hawaiian sometimes enforces weight checks. The usual limit is around 25 lbs (11 kg), which is lighter than many hard-shell suitcases when fully packed.

📌 Important note: Even if your bag fits the size requirements, gate agents may tag it for checking if the flight is completely full and overhead space runs out. This is especially common on long-haul flights.

Tip for travelers: If you’re using a hard-shell spinner suitcase, double-check its dimensions with the wheels included—many popular carry-ons are just slightly too big for Hawaiian’s official limit.

Personal Item Rules on Hawaiian Airlines

In addition to your carry-on, Hawaiian Airlines lets you bring one personal item for free. This has to fit under the seat in front of you, so the size is smaller compared to a carry-on.

✅ Examples of Personal Items Allowed

• Backpack (small to medium)

• Laptop bag

• Purse or handbag

• Diaper bag

• Camera bag

Basically, if it’s something you’d normally keep by your feet, it counts as a personal item.

❌ What Doesn’t Count

• Large duffels or extra roller bags usually won’t pass as a personal item. If it looks like a second carry-on, gate agents may ask you to check it.

📏 Size Guidelines

Hawaiian doesn’t list an exact inch-by-inch limit for personal items, but the general rule is:

• Must fit under the seat in front of you

• Shouldn’t block the aisle or stick out

A backpack around 18 x 14 x 8 inches is a safe bet, since it works for most airlines and easily slides under the seat.

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, diaper bags don’t count against your personal item allowance, which is a lifesaver for families.

Additional Items You Can Bring Free on Hawaiian Airlines

Besides your carry-on and personal item, Hawaiian Airlines allows a few extras at no additional charge. These don’t count toward your bag limit, which is super handy.

✅ Free Extras You Can Bring

• Duty-free shopping bags (on international flights) – If you’re flying back from Japan or Australia, those airport duty-free purchases won’t count as your carry-on.

• Mobility aids – Wheelchairs, canes, walkers, or crutches are always allowed free of charge.

• Strollers & car seats – Families traveling with little ones can bring these items at no extra cost. Strollers can either be checked at the gate or stored in the overhead bin if small enough.

• Outerwear – Jackets, sweaters, and coats don’t count against your baggage allowance.

• Food & snacks – Anything you buy after security is fair game. Hawaiian even encourages bringing your own snacks, since their food service isn’t as extensive on shorter flights.

• Umbrellas – Handy if you’re traveling during Hawaii’s rainy season.

⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind

• These items should still fit in the cabin without taking up another passenger’s space.

• Hawaiian crew members have final say on whether an item must be checked, especially on full flights.

Pro tip: If you’re carrying something unusual (like a ukulele 🎶, which is popular on Hawaiian flights), check with the gate agent—they’re usually accommodating as long as it fits safely overhead or under the seat.

Baggage Fees (Carry-On vs. Checked Bags)

One of the best things about Hawaiian Airlines is that carry-on bags are always free. That means you can bring your one standard carry-on plus a personal item without paying extra.

But when it comes to checked bags, the fees depend on where you’re flying:

💼 Checked Baggage Fees (Each Way)

Interisland Flights (within Hawaii):

• 1st checked bag: $25

• 2nd checked bag: $35

Flights Between Hawaii and North America (mainland US):

• 1st checked bag: $30–$40

• 2nd checked bag: $40–$50

International Flights (Hawaii to Asia, South Pacific, etc.):

• Many routes include one or two free checked bags, depending on destination and class of service.

• For example, flights to Japan often allow 2 free checked bags, which is a nice perk compared to domestic rules.

📝 Quick Comparison

Tip: Hawaiian Airlines offers discounts if you pre-pay for checked bags online rather than at the airport. It’s usually $5 cheaper per bag.

Overhead Space & Boarding Groups on Hawaiian Airlines

If you’ve flown before, you know overhead bin space can be stressful. Hawaiian Airlines is no different—on busy flights, those bins fill up fast.

🎟️ Boarding Zones & Priority

• Zone 1: First Class, Business Class, Premier Club, and Pualani Platinum/Gold members board first, which means guaranteed overhead bin space.

• Zone 2–3: Main Cabin guests with priority boarding or special needs.

• Zone 4+: Regular economy passengers (most people fall here).

The later you board, the higher the chance your carry-on may be taken at the gate and checked for free.

✈️ How to Secure Overhead Bin Space

• Check in early and try to get a better boarding zone (especially if you’re an elite member or have a HawaiianMiles credit card).

• Board promptly when your zone is called.

• Travel light: Smaller bags can slide into tighter overhead spaces that larger roller bags won’t fit.

⚠️ Gate Checking

If your flight is full, gate agents may tag your bag for complimentary gate check. While you won’t pay, it does mean waiting at baggage claim, so pack essentials in your personal item.

Pro Tip: If keeping your bag with you is non-negotiable, consider upgrading to an earlier boarding zone—it’s often worth the peace of mind.

Packing Tips for Hawaiian Airlines Flights

Flying Hawaiian is a little different than hopping on a short domestic route—you’re often dealing with long-haul flights across the Pacific. That means your carry-on strategy really matters.

🧳 Pack the Essentials in Your Carry-On

Since checked bags can be delayed, always keep these in your carry-on:

• Passport / ID & boarding pass

• Medications

• Phone, charger, and headphones

• A change of clothes (in case your luggage is late)

• Toiletries under TSA’s 3-1-1 rule (liquids in bottles 3.4 oz / 100ml or less, in one quart-sized bag)

🌺 Hawaii-Specific Packing Tips

• Sunscreen: Hawaii bans sunscreens with certain reef-harming chemicals, so bring a reef-safe sunscreen that follows TSA’s liquid rules.

• Food: You can bring snacks on board, but keep in mind there are strict rules about bringing fresh fruits, veggies, or plants into Hawaii due to agricultural restrictions.

• Light layers: Even though Hawaii is warm, the cabin can get chilly on long flights—pack a hoodie or light sweater in your personal item.

💤 Comfort on Long Flights

• Neck pillow or travel pillow

• Refillable water bottle (fill it after security)

• Compression socks if you’re prone to swelling on long-haul flights

Pro tip: Hawaiian flights to the islands often have a laid-back vibe, but the flight itself is long. A well-packed carry-on can make the difference between a rough ride and an easy one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Rules

❓ Can I bring a ukulele or musical instrument as a carry-on?

Yes! Hawaiian is pretty flexible with instruments like ukuleles and guitars. As long as it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat, you can bring it as your carry-on. If it’s larger, you may need to buy an extra seat or check it.

❓ Does Hawaiian weigh carry-ons on domestic flights?

Not usually. For flights within the US, Hawaiian rarely checks the weight of carry-ons. The only requirement is that you can lift it into the overhead bin. However, on some international flights, they may weigh your bag, and the limit is usually around 25 lbs (11 kg).

❓ Are carry-ons free on all Hawaiian Airlines tickets?

Yes. Unlike some budget airlines, Hawaiian does not charge for carry-ons. Every passenger, even on the cheapest fare, gets one carry-on plus a personal item for free.

❓ Can I bring food from the mainland to Hawaii?

Yes, but with restrictions. Packaged snacks are fine, but fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants are restricted due to Hawaii’s agricultural protection laws. On your return flight back to the mainland, you may see agricultural inspections for the same reason.

❓ What if my carry-on doesn’t fit in the overhead bin?

If your bag is oversized or the bins are full, it will be gate-checked for free. Always keep essentials in your personal item in case you’re separated from your carry-on.

Product Recommendations

If you’re flying Hawaiian Airlines, the right carry-on and travel accessories can make a huge difference. Since you’ll often be on long-haul flights to or from the islands, you want gear that’s lightweight, compact, and compliant with Hawaiian’s 22 x 14 x 9 inch size rule. Below are some traveler-approved products that work perfectly with Hawaiian Airlines’ carry-on policies.

✈️ Best Carry-On Suitcases

1. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner
View on Amazon
A durable, lightweight hard-shell suitcase that’s perfectly sized for Hawaiian’s 22” limit. The spinner wheels make it super easy to maneuver through airports, and the interior has plenty of compartments to keep things organized.

2. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Softside Spinner
View on Amazon
This one’s a softside favorite because it’s extremely lightweight, which is helpful if you’re flying on Hawaiian’s international routes where they sometimes weigh carry-ons. It also has expandable compartments for when you need a little extra space.

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🎒 Best Personal Item Bags

3. Samsonite Underseat Carry-On with Wheels
View on Amazon
Fits perfectly under the seat in front of you, making it an ideal personal item for Hawaiian flights. It has enough room for a laptop, chargers, snacks, and even a change of clothes.

4. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
View on Amazon
A budget-friendly and super practical backpack that easily slides under the seat. It has a padded laptop compartment and lots of organizational pockets, which is perfect for long-haul travel.

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🛠️ Handy Travel Accessories

5. TRTL Travel Pillow
View on Amazon
Since Hawaiian’s flights are often long, this neck pillow can make a huge difference. Unlike bulky U-shaped pillows, the TRTL wraps around your neck and supports your head while still packing down small.

6. TSA-Approved Clear Toiletry Bag (3-1-1 Compliant)
View on Amazon
Perfect for carrying sunscreen, liquids, and toiletries without any hassle at security. Hawaii has strict agricultural rules, but TSA liquid rules still apply—this bag keeps everything organized.

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👉 These products are all highly rated and designed to fit Hawaiian Airlines’ rules, so you won’t have to stress about your bag being too big or too heavy.

Hawaiian Airlines’ carry-on rules are pretty straightforward, but knowing the details can save you from stress at the airport. You’re allowed one free carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) plus one personal item that fits under the seat. On most domestic flights, weight limits aren’t enforced, but for international routes, you’ll want to stay under 25 lbs.

The good news? Carry-ons are always free on Hawaiian, no matter what fare you book. The only time you’ll pay extra is for checked bags, and even then, international routes often include one or two checked bags at no charge.

If you’re heading to Hawaii (or coming back from it), pack smart—keep your essentials in your carry-on, bring reef-safe sunscreen, and plan for comfort on long-haul flights. With the right bag and a few travel hacks, you’ll breeze through boarding and spend less time worrying about baggage rules and more time enjoying paradise.