what size travel bag for airlines

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2024 Checked Luggage Size Chart and Allowances for 62 Airlines [Dimensions, Sizes and More]

Alex Miller

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Table of Contents

Checked luggage allowances by airline, can i prepay for baggage, recommended cards that reimburse your baggage fees, checked luggage options.

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With no universal set of rules for checked luggage allowances, you need to review what you’re permitted to bring with you every time you travel in order to avoid excess charges.

Allowances can differ from airline to airline, with some allocating a total weight allowance and some restricting passengers to a specific number of pieces. Airline policies can also vary depending on the route and will nearly always vary based on the cabin you’re traveling in.

Your ticket will give you the most accurate information for your specific flight. If baggage details are not included on your ticket, you can check out our handy table below that details allowances for over 60 popular airlines.

Where available, you can also click the airline name for a more detailed overview of the airline’s baggage policy, including excess charges and frequent flyer allowances.

When talking about baggage allowances, many airlines refer to “maximum linear dimensions” or something similar. This is merely the number you get when you add together the length, width (or height), and depth of a piece of luggage. For example, if you had a suitcase that’s 26 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, then its linear dimensions are 62 inches, or right at the maximum for many airlines.

Traveling light? We’ve also covered carry-on luggage allowances with a similar size chart.

Your airline may allow passengers the ability to prepay luggage online for less than at the airport. Individual airlines’ baggage policies can be found by clicking the airline name in the preceding table or by visiting the airline’s website.

If you will be paying to check a bag on your next flight, or if your luggage is overweight or oversized, use one of the recommended Capital One cards below so that you can be reimbursed for the cost. Each card detailed allows you to redeem Capital One miles for 1 cent each as a statement credit against travel purchases made in the previous 90 days.

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The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

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Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
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• $395 annual fee ( rates & fees )
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Capital One Miles

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Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Limited elite benefits
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

• No annual fee ( rates & fees )
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• No luxury travel or elite benefits
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• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
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• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months

Hot Tip:  To view more checked bags, check out our article on the best checked luggage bags for travelers .

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does checked baggage have to be a suitcase.

Checked luggage can come in various forms, from hard-shell suitcases to soft duffel bags or backpacks. Passengers can often also check-in boxes or different shaped packages, providing they adhere to maximum size restrictions imposed by the airline.

What is the largest suitcase you can check on a plane?

There are no set restrictions for checked luggage, so airlines define their own baggage policies. A standard size that is seen consistently across many airlines is 62 inches (158 cm) linear. The weight will depend on the cabin, but quite often the maximum weight a piece can be (with or without overweight charges) is 70 pounds (32 kg).

Do checked bags get searched?

Checked baggage is generally screened using scanners so it’s not usually necessary for a physical bag inspection. TSA has the right to search checked luggage if they choose to and will leave a note inside your bag if an inspection has taken place.

Do wheels count when measuring luggage?

Most airlines will count wheels and handles within the measurements, so you should include these when measuring your luggage.

What is considered oversized luggage?

There is no standard measurement for oversized luggage as this is defined by the airline. A common size seen regularly with many airlines (but not all) is maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 cm).

How do I avoid overweight baggage fees?

Be sure to check the policy for your airline, cabin, and particular route before packing your luggage. Use your bathroom scales or a dedicated bag weighing scale. If you find yourself with excessive weight at the airport, try to transfer some items into your carry-on bag.

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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Airline Carry-on Luggage Size Restrictions: What You Need to Know

The vacation countdown is almost over, and it's time to get packing. Before you print that boarding pass and set your out-of-office message , though, it's important to conduct a bit of research to avoid any hiccups at the gate — especially with your cargo. Though many travel rules vary depending on what region of the world you're heading to or from, carry-on luggage size limits remain a consistent, steadfast metric for the vast majority of airlines.

Sure, you might occasionally be able to sneak onboard with a bag that's a bit oversized or overweight, but it's always smarter to plan ahead. To ensure you get from point A to point B smoothly, choosing the best carry-on luggage to fit the fine print will make for less travel stress. Skip the Googling and follow this guide to know what size suitcase to bring on your next trip — no TSA bargaining, pleading, or, worst of all, last-minute checking required.

To get started, let's begin with these frequently asked questions.

What size is carry-on luggage?

Though you might find an inch or two of a difference with various airlines, the standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22" x 14" x 9", which includes the handle and the wheels. This size limit ensures your bag — and ideally everyone else's — will be able to be stored safely in the overhead bin for your flight. By far, the biggest benefit of traveling with carry-on luggage is being able to transport your belongings yourself without entrusting them to the airline and hoping they'll arrive at your destination on time and in one, undamaged piece.

What is the weight limit for carry-on luggage?

For many major domestic airlines — think: Delta, Southwest, JetBlue — there are no weight restrictions for carry-on bags. You'll just have to be able to lift it above your head into the storage bin. And in most cases, even if airlines do list a specific pound or kilogram limit on their websites, they likely won't weigh your carry-on bags. As long as your pack doesn't appear to be overstuffed, you're probably OK. Weight is much more important for small commuter planes, mostly due to safety regulations.

T+L Backpack Recommendation Quiz

Packing tip.

Looking to create even more room in your carry-on? Try using vacuum-sealed storage bags — you can buy them at Amazon.

What is a personal item?

In addition to your carry-on suitcase, many airlines also allow a personal item. This can be a laptop bag , a purse, a briefcase, a beach bag — whatever you like, as long as it is generally small. Personal item restrictions vary by airline, and some choose not to include any specifics at all. In those cases, the general rule of thumb is an item smaller in dimension and weight than your carry-on bag. For families flying with a travel stroller or diaper bag or those traveling with uncommon additions like a wedding dress or an instrument can rest assured that most carriers will let you bring these along with your carry-on luggage and your personal item, but we recommend you contact the airline in advance to confirm this.

What is the best carry-on luggage?

As with any travel gear, everyone has a different opinion on the best luggage brands , but the best buy for you is ultimately the one that suits your needs as a traveler. If you're constantly on the road, invest in a durable bag that can keep up. If you take one or two vacations a year, you can go with something more affordable. These days, you don't have to stick to legacy brands to get a quality suitcase. Many up-and-comers offer some really solid options whether you prefer softside or hardside luggage , two-wheel rollaboards, or hassle-free backpacks . Before you buy, take note of the dimensions in comparison with the airlines you prefer to fly to be sure you're shopping on the safe side.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

What you pack in your carry-on bag is regulated, as well. In addition to the same rules that apply to checked bags, which prohibit firearms, lithium batteries, and other potentially hazardous items, you must be mindful of liquids when packing your carry-on luggage. Regardless of your destination, you cannot bring containers of liquid, paste, aerosol, gel, or cream larger than 3.4 ounces through security. Make sure to check the specific rules of your carrier, too, so you won't be forced to throw anything away at the gate.

What is the standard international carry-on size?

To be sure your bag is accepted on all carriers, you'll want to get a suitcase that stands at 21'' or less. It's especially smart to look into luggage size restrictions when you're flying with smaller, regional airlines outside of the U.S. as each is able to set its own limits.

Keep reading for some more airline-specific information.

Alaska Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: not specified
• Personal item: one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop bag

Allegiant Air

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 9''; fee applies ($10-75)
• Personal item: 7'' x 15'' x 16''

When booking with a budget airline, it's imperative to read the fine print. In most cases, when the low fare seems like steal, traveling light is the only way to keep it that way. With Allegiant, your personal item is free, but there's a fee for your carry-on.

American Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 14'' x 10''
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''; must fit under the seat in front of you

American Airlines' fares include both a carry-on and personal item, even in Basic Economy.

Delta Air Lines

• Personal item: one purse, briefcase, camera bag, or diaper bag

There are three exceptions:

Singapore, Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN): 15 pounds or 7 kg

Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): 22 pounds or 10 kg for domestic travel

Shanghai, Pudong International Airport (PVG): 22 pounds or 10 kg

Frontier Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 24'' x 16'' x 10''
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 35 pounds
• Personal item: 8'' x 18'' x 14''

Hawaiian Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 45 linear inches
• Carry-on luggage weight maximum: 25 pounds
• Personal item: one purse, briefcase, laptop bag, backpack, or similar piece; must fit under the seat in front of you
• Carry-on luggage weight: None specified
• Personal item: 17'' x 13'' x 8''

There's a reason JetBlue has such a cult following: not only does it give guests more legroom, but it alleviates a bit of the carry-on luggage size limit stress, too. Though the carry-on size restrictions are the same as most airlines, the personal item dimensions are larger.

Southwest Airlines

• Personal item: 18.5'' x 8.5'' x 13.5''; must fit under the seat in front of you

Another generous airline, Southwest's personal item and carry-on size limits are spacier than most.

Spirit Airlines

• Carry-on luggage size: 22'' x 18'' x 10''
• Personal item: 18'' x 14'' x 8''

United Airlines

• Personal item: 17'' x 10'' x 9''; must fit in the seat in front of you

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Did you know that choosing a suitcase (or multiple cases, for that matter) in the right size can save you some money in luggage fees and help you become a more organized traveler?

On one end, unused space in your luggage will result in wrinkled clothes and a messy suitcase. Not to mention the extra weight and possible luggage fees. And on the other – having too little space will limit your packing capacity. That’s why nailing the correct luggage size is very, very important.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about all the different luggage sizes, restrictions, and more, so you can understand what size luggage is better for you. Make sure to check out our FAQ section at the bottom if you still have any questions!

Luggage Size Chart

But before we begin this article, down below you can check out our infographic and table with the most common luggage sizes, which will offer an easier way to grasp the differences between them.

Measuring Luggage

Basically, each airline has different size and weight restrictions for hand and checked luggage. Usually, premium airlines will allow slightly larger bags, and cheaper ones will allow smaller ones with tighter weight limits. Your job as the passenger is to find out the restrictions yourself because they change all the time, and it would be impossible for us to list and update each airline individually.

There are two types of size restrictions that you need to know. The first one is dimensions – height (top to bottom), width (side to side), and depth (front to back). It will usually be applied for personal items and carry-ons and could be stated as follows: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches). Airlines will usually offer measuring boxes inside airports, where you can put in your bags to check if they fit.

The second measurement is linear inches. Linear inches just means the total sum of height, width, and depth, and it’s mainly used for checked luggage, which needs to be under 62 linear inches. So to get linear inches, measure the height, width and depth individually and add them all up.

To measure the dimensions of your suitcase, you can place it next to a wall and measure the height, width, and depth by placing a measuring tape next to the wall. To get a more exact measurement, you can place a book or something flat on the other end of the measuring tape. Make sure to include the wheels, handles, and anything else that’s sticking out! Another thing to keep in mind is that fabric suitcases might become a bit larger once they’re packed to the brim, so before measuring, pack your suitcase full and measure in the widest end.

Hand Luggage

Hand luggage means all the bags that you’re allowed to take with you on the plane without checking them in. Usually, it’s a carry-on, a personal item, and any other items that aren’t counted towards the allowance, such as duty-free items .

Hand luggage has to be stored under each passenger’s front seat or in the overhead compartments, which are located above each seat. You won’t be able to access it during take-off and landing because they have to be tucked away securely in case of an emergency.

When you arrive at the airport, you won’t need to go to the check-in desks if you have just hand luggage, and you’ve already printed your tickets back home. You’ll be able to go straight to security , where TSA (Transport Security Agency) will screen your hand luggage for any prohibited items. After that, you’re free to do duty-free shopping or wait at the designated gate until boarding starts.

Carry-on Luggage vs Personal Items

The main difference between carry-on luggage and personal items (other called “underseat luggage”) is that carry-ons need to be stored in the slightly-larger overhead compartments and personal items under each passenger’s front seat. Usually, most people choose smaller rolling suitcases as their carry-ons and backpacks, duffels, or tote bags as their personal items. That said, you can use any type of bag as a carry-on or a personal item, whether it’s a briefcase, rolling suitcase, duffel bag , backpack, tote, or even a regular shopping bag.

You won’t really be able to access stuff from your carry-on during the first and last 15-30 minutes of the flight, as well as any turbulence, so pack your most necessary items in your personal item, such as your laptop , headphones, e-reader , any medicine, e.t.c.

Personal Item Size and Weight Requirements

Most airlines won’t specifically mention an exact size requirement for personal items, and instead, they’ll just say that it has to fit under the front seat. On average though, it should be 6-9 inches in width, 10-14 inches in height, and 17-18.5 inches in length . They avoid stating the exact measurements because each airline has different types of aircraft in their fleet and each aircraft has a different amount of space under each seat. To get the exact personal item size requirements, you should probably ask the airline directly, or check our list where we compiled personal item restrictions for most popular airlines .

Some airlines also have individual weight restrictions for personal items. But most of them just have some kind of weight limit for the total weight of your personal item and carry-on.

Tip: Looking to purchase a personal item? Check out the Matein Travel laptop backpack , which I’ve used as my personal item on multiple flights without any issues. It always fits under the front seat and it’s surprisingly spacious.

Carry-on Size and Weight Requirements

On average, carry-ons usually have to be 8-10 inches in width, 13-15  inches in height, and 19-23 inches in length. Each airline has different carry-on size requirements, however, the most popular one is 22 x 14 x 9 inches . The restrictions are so different between airlines because the overhead compartments tend to differ in capacity across different aircraft.

In terms of weight, each airline has different weight requirements for carry-on luggage. Most airlines in America don’t have any weight requirements for hand luggage but some do, especially budget airlines. If the airline has a carry-on weight limit, it’s usually between 15-35 lbs (7-16 kg) . Some airlines will also have a specific weight limit for the total weight of carry-ons and personal items.

Tip: Looking for a new carry-on? I’ve used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 19-inch fabric carry-on for a while now and I love it. It’s spacious, lightweight, and very durable. Even though it’s slightly over the limit in width, I’ve never had any issues with that on international flights.

Domestic Carry-Ons vs International Carry-Ons

When you’ll be shopping for a new carry-on, you’ll notice that some of them will be marked as “international carry-on” and some as “domestic carry-on.” That’s because carry-on size restrictions are usually stricter for international flights and looser for domestic ones. If you’re flying domestically, you might get away with a 23-inch (longest side) carry-on, but on an international flight, you’ll probably be limited to 19-21 inches.

So essentially, domestic carry-ons will be slightly larger than international ones. If the carry-on is too large , you will be asked to check it in, and you’ll have to pay additional fees. That’s why it’s important to buy a smaller carry-on if you’re planning on flying internationally. Usually, international carry-ons will have to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches .

Hand Luggage Fees

Almost all airlines will allow bringing one personal item completely for free. When it comes to carry-ons though, most airlines allow bringing one for free, but budget airlines might charge a fixed fee depending on your class, which could be anywhere from 10$ to 50$. For instance, Spirit airlines will charge 31-50$ for carry-on luggage and Ryanair will charge about 6-20 EUR.

Keep in mind that most of these items are usually allowed for free in addition to other hand baggage:

• Assistive devices for the disabled
• Other wearable clothes
• Walking canes
• Food in disposable containers meant to consume on the airplane
• Child restraint seats
• Duty-free items
• Reading materials
• Cameras ( some airlines consider cameras as personal items, while others don’t. )
• Pet carriers ( Some airlines consider pet carriers as personal items, while others don’t. )

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Hand Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Using only hand luggage and avoiding checked luggage altogether is a technique used by many, me included because it offers many benefits:

• No need to wait in line at the check-in counter
• Most of the time, completely for free
• Less likely to be stolen or lost because it’s on you at all times
• Easier to carry around, especially if you use a backpack as a personal item together with a carry-on suitcase
• The best place for keeping valuables and fragile items
• You can access all of your items during the flight
• Less likely to break because it isn’t exposed to baggage handling

However, there are some drawbacks to using only hand luggage, such as:

• Less packing space
• Harder to manage for families because they usually need to bring more items
• It needs to be lugged around the airport after security instead of being handed over at the check-in desks
• Usually, has much stricter weight limits

Tips for Buying Hand Luggage

• If you’re flying on short flights, consider using only an underseat rolling suitcase or backpack. People who fly for business often only need to fly out domestically for a quick meeting, so a lot of them travel with only a personal item. You can easily fit a spare shirt in there as well as some toiletries and a laptop, which is really all you need.
• For up to two-week vacations, a carry-on and a personal item offer more than enough space. Personally, I’m a light packer, and I can travel for up to three weeks or even a month using only a carry-on and a personal item. For most people, this offers enough space.
• Consider getting a backpack with a back strap as your choice of personal item. That way, you can secure it around the retractable handle on top of your carry-on, which makes it incredibly easy to lug around. Especially in crowded areas, such as public transport and airports.
• If you’ll be flying internationally, get a carry-on under 22 x 14 x 9 inches with wheels and handles included. On domestic flights, you’ll probably be able to use something larger, but if you want to avoid paying extra fees down the line, make sure your carry-on is under this limit.
• Make sure to get lightweight hand luggage. The weight restrictions are pretty strict as it is already, so make sure to get a lightweight carry-on and personal item. Especially the carry-on, because you’ll have to stow it in the overhead compartments. So instead of going with a hardside carry-on, get a fabric one instead, which will most likely be lighter.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

Checked Luggage

Checked luggage is all baggage that’s too large or too heavy to be carried on the flight, and has to be checked in instead. This means that you’ll need to hand it over at the check-in counters at the airport. The baggage will then be transferred over to baggage handling and it will be loaded in the cargo hold of the airplane . When you land, you’ll have to pick up your checked luggage from the luggage conveyor belts in the baggage reclaim area.

You can use other kinds of baggage as well for checked luggage, not just suitcases. You can also use large backpacks, duffel bags, totes, musical instruments in their cases, large trunks, and other oversized items. A lot of times, you’ll have to check in specialty items, such as large musical instruments and all kinds of sporting equipment, such as bicycles, snowboards, golf clubs, e.t.c.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

Checked Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions

Most commonly, checked luggage will have a size restriction of 62 linear inches (height + width + length) and a weight limit of 50 or 70 lbs. These are the IATA guidelines that are enforced in the EU and US which are there to keep the baggage handlers from handling too heavy bags. Oversized and overweight baggage will be accepted, but it will be labeled as oversized/overweight and you’ll have to pay a fee for that unless it’s sporting equipment. For instance, American Airlines will accept oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm) and overweight bags up to 100 lbs (45 kg.)

Small vs Medium vs Large Checked Luggage

Checked luggage comes in different sizes, and usually, the longest dimension is 23-32 inches long. Depending on the longest side, checked luggage is usually divided into three sizes, which are small, medium, and large. Small checked suitcases usually are 23-24 inches on the longest size, medium ones 25-27 inches, and large ones in 28-32 inches. Quite often, suitcases above 30 inches will actually be oversized, because they’re over 62 linear inches with wheels and handles included.

For most people, a medium checked suitcase will be the best option, because it will be just within the checked luggage size limits and offer a large amount of space for all of their items.

Read Next: 8 Best 62-Inch Checked Suitcases in 2022

Checked Luggage Fees

On most international flights, airlines will allow you to bring one or two checked bags completely for free. On domestic flights, usually, they’ll offer either one free checked bag or none at all. This depends a lot on the airline though. Additional bags will cost on a per-bag basis, starting with cheaper rates and continuing with more expensive ones. For instance, for American Airlines on domestic flights, the first checked bag will cost 30$, the second 40$, and the third one 100$ .

If you aren’t flying alone and you’re carrying a lot of checked bags, it’s usually a better idea to split them evenly among all the passengers to save some money on the checked baggage fees. It also isn’t advisable to bring more than two checked bags because the fees start to get pretty costly after that.

The fees for overweight and oversized luggage can get very expensive, upwards of 100-200$ for each bag, so before you arrive at the airport, make sure that each bag is under the weight limit.

Checked Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Although there are a lot of disadvantages for flying with checked luggage, there are some advantages as well, such as:

• Checked bags offer much more space
• Better for families who carry a lot of items
• Checked bags don’t need to be carried around the airport after checking them in
• No need to worry about size and weight, as the restrictions are pretty hard to reach
• You should be able to get away with a slightly oversized checked bag because they’re rarely measured

However, there’s a reason why I don’t travel with checked luggage. In my opinion, it has more disadvantages, such as:

• With a personal item, carry-on, and a checked suitcase, it’s much more difficult to use public transport
• Checked luggage is mostly a paid service, especially with budget airlines
• There’s just too much space if you’re a light packer
• Checked bags can get damaged from baggage handling
• Items get lost or stolen much more frequently when packed in checked luggage
• You won’t be able to access the contents of checked luggage during the whole flight
• In case checked baggage gets lost, you’ll be left without a lot of items and your trip might be ruined
• You’ll have to wait in the check-in line at the airport

Tips for Buying Checked Luggage

• Avoid plastic checked suitcases. Hardside ABS, Polycarbonate, or Polypropylene suitcases can crack pretty easily. When they’re thrown in the baggage area under a pile of other suitcases, this can happen very easily. That’s why you should choose an aluminum checked suitcase or a fabric one, which will be much less likely to break.
• Before buying a checked suitcase, double-check that it’s below 62 linear inches.  Oversized checked luggage fees can get pretty expensive, usually between 100-200$. To avoid this hefty fee make sure that your suitcase is below 62 linear inches (height + width + depth) with handles and wheels included. A very large amount of large checked suitcases, in fact, about 50-80% of them are oversized, so pay close attention to the dimensions.
• A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you’re looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.
• Get a bright or patterned checked suitcase. Checked luggage gets lost much more frequently. So when you’re shopping for a new case, make sure to get one that’s colorful and easy to recognize . It will be much easier to spot on the baggage carousel and if it gets lost, the chances of finding it will be much better because you’ll be able to describe it better. If you already own a dark checked suitcase, get a colorful patterned luggage cover .
• Avoid checked luggage with spinner wheels. Rolling, inline (2 wheels) suitcases are better options for checked suitcases because they’re much less likely to break while the bag is checked in. Spinner wheels are much more likely to fall off because they’re extended out from the main shape of the suitcase. It’s actually one of the most common things that break on checked bags.
• Consider getting a pelican trunk instead of a typical checked suitcase. They’re basically indestructible and they’re one of the most popular choices for climbers, camera crews, and other people who need to bring a lot of expensive checked gear.

What Size Luggage Should You Get?

There are all kinds of different factors that determine what kind of suitcase you should get. Before buying any luggage, you should understand how often and where you’ll be traveling, how many people you’ll be flying with, what are your packing traditions, and so on.

Are You an Over-Packer?

There’s nothing wrong with being an over-packer, but it will affect what kind of luggage you should choose and how much you’ll be paying in fees. Most over-packers like to travel with a checked suitcase and a personal item, such as a small backpack, skipping the carry-on entirely. You’ll be able to pack your valuables and essentials in the personal item and be left with a very large amount of space in your checked suitcase, where you can pack all of your clothing and anything else you’d need. A medium checked suitcase will usually offer about 90-100 l of space while a carry-on only 35-50 l, so the difference is pretty significant.

How Long You’ll Be Traveling?

The length of your trips/vacations also determines what kind of luggage you should get. If you’ll be traveling for months, unless you’re an extreme minimalist, you’ll need to bring some kind of checked luggage. But for two to three-week trips, it’s perfectly fine to bring only a carry-on and a personal item, unless you’re an over-packer or you need to bring other kinds of gear for your job, planned activities, e.t.c.

Where You’re Flying to and What Are Your Planned Activities?

Think about what you’ll be doing and what gear you’ll need. Do you need scuba diving or skiing gear? Are you into photography and need to bring a large tripod? Are you flying to a cold-weather country and you need to bring a lot of extra warm clothing? The kind of travel that you’ll be doing, determines what size luggage you should get.

Think about valuable and fragile gear specifically. Try to keep the most valuable items in your hand luggage. If that isn’t possible, remember to ensure your gear and invest in a durable, large enough, checked suitcase or trunk. A good option for that is the pelican trunk , which is the industry standard for professionals.

Tip: It’s Better to Buy a Smaller Suitcase, Instead of a Larger One

Many people will probably disagree but I personally think that it’s always a smarter choice to buy a smaller suitcase instead of a larger one. This will make you become a lighter packer, which could end up saving you some money in the long run on checked baggage fees.

A lot of times, people are bringing gear that they don’t really need and end up with heavier, oversized suitcases. Remember that you’ll also have to carry your luggage around the town and to the airport. You’re on a vacation to get new experiences, not buy a lot of unneeded stuff, and be exhausted from carrying an oversized suitcase. Of course, if you’re traveling for work, that may not be true, but for general leisure travel, it’s a better idea to get a slightly smaller suitcase than you think you’d need.

What Size Luggage I Use Personally

I usually travel one or two weeks at a time, so a personal item (backpack) and an international carry-on are more than enough to fit in everything that I need. I rarely use checked luggage because I’m a minimalistic packer.

My favorite has become the B06XZTZ7GB ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Matein laptop backpack’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B06XZTZ7GB ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Matein laptop backpack’>Matein laptop backpack for a personal item, which fits perfectly under the front seat and has many neat compartments for everything that I need. It’s 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches large, but I never pack it full, so it always fits under the front seat.

And for the carry-on, I use the B07BM9DFX9 ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B07BM9DFX9 ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’>Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on , which is pretty light and small enough for domestic luggage restrictions. It’s 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 inches large with wheels and handles included, so sometimes it’s a little bit above international limits, but I’ve never had any issues with it. I’ve tried squeezing it inside the measurement boxes myself, and I managed to fit it in with a tight squeeze.

My laptop backpack has a rear strap that wraps around the carry-on’s retractable handle so my backpack can be secured on top of it. It’s handy because my carry-on has spinner wheels, and it’s super easy to move around. In tight spaces, for instance, in the subway, it’s much easier to store the backpack on top of the carry-on.

If you’re a light packer like me, I’d suggest going with a backpack and a carry-on. It’ll be enough for 1-2 week trips, but if you wash some clothes midway and don’t buy too many souvenirs, you can stretch that to three weeks or even a month. If you’re traveling longer than that or you’re an over-packer, you should get a 25-27-inch medium checked suitcase instead of the carry-on.

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions About Luggage Sizes

What’s the largest luggage size for checked-in luggage ( 62-inch luggage ).

In order to comply with the 62-linear-inch checked luggage size requirement, you shouldn’t get a suitcase larger than 29-30 inches (longest side.) Almost all 31 and 32-inch suitcases will be oversized. Even a lot of 28-30-inch suitcases are oversized, so you have to double-check the product description and find out how large they really are. Count the total sum of the height, width, and depth, with wheels and handles included to get the true linear-inch measurement. The largest suitcases within the 62-linear-inch restriction are about 100-120l in volume.

To maximize the amount of space that you can have inside, choose a fabric suitcase, which will open from the top, instead of the middle, as you see on most hardside cases. This means you’ll have a larger main compartment. Also, make sure to get it with inline rolling wheels, instead of spinner ones, which results in a lot of unused space.

Tip: If you want to maximize the amount of space you get from a 62-linear-inch checked suitcase, get the Pelican 1615 travel case , which is exactly 62 linear inches in size and is virtually indestructible.

What’s the largest size for hand luggage?

When we talk about hand luggage, there are different restrictions for personal items and carry-ons. There are also different restrictions for each airline. In general, personal items should be below 17 x 10 x 7 inches in dimensions and carry-ons under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The largest size restriction for personal items that we found was on Southwest airlines, where personal items need to be under 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. The largest size restriction for carry-ons was on Alaska Air, which was 24 x 17 x 10 inches. Generally, more expensive airlines will have looser restrictions for hand luggage.

What are the 3 luggage sizes?

If we’re talking about dimensions, the three luggage sizes are height (from top to bottom), width (from side to side), and depth (from front to back).

If, however, we’re talking in terms of luggage types, what people most likely mean with the 3 luggage sizes is personal items, carry-ons, and checked luggage, which have three different size and weight restrictions.

What’s the best luggage size for 20 and 23 kg?

The most common weight restriction for checked luggage on budget airlines is 20 or 23 kg (44 or 50 lbs). The best luggage size for this weight restriction is between 25-29 inches (longest size) . That’s because 20 or 23 kg checked luggage has to be under 62 linear inches (157 cm). You can calculate the linear inches by adding up height, width, and depth. Most suitcases above 29 inches will be over this limit, which means you’ll have to pay oversized baggage fees. You should always include the wheels and handles in these measurements.

Can I use backpacks and duffel bags as hand/checked luggage?

Yes, you can use backpacks and duffel bags as checked luggage. Theoretically, you can use any type of bag as checked luggage, as long as it’s durable enough to withstand baggage handling. You could even use a cardboard box , although it may not be a wise idea.

Personally, I’ve only traveled with a large backpack as my checked luggage. That’s because I do a lot of hiking and my hiking backpack is much larger than a carry-on. It’s pretty common for people to travel only with a large backpack (not only hike) and keep their essentials in a plastic bag or a tote bag during the flight. This gives you a lot of freedom because everything you need is packed inside one large backpack.

Do I need to include wheels and handles when measuring luggage?

You always need to include wheels, handles, and other elements that are sticking out when measuring luggage. A lot of people don’t know this and they end up purchasing oversized luggage, only to regret it later. You also need to take into account that if you’re buying an expendable suitcase, it will become a few inches wider when expanded.

What size luggage should I use for a week-long trip?

For a week-long trip, everyone should be able to fit everything they’d need in a carry-on and a personal item. Some people struggle with over-packing and end up using checked luggage for week-long trips, which can be avoided with smarter packing choices. When packing for your trip, always lay everything out and re-evaluate each individual item individually. Ask yourself if you’ll be using these items on your trip. And if the answer is “Maybe” you should leave that specific item at home. Personally, I can fit everything I’d need for 2-4 weeks in a single carry-on and a personal item.

What if my checked luggage is oversized?

IATA, which is the largest worldwide airline regulator, states that checked bags can’t be over 62 linear inches in order to keep the baggage handlers from working with oversized bags. Anything over 62 linear inches will be labeled as “oversized” and will cost you an extra 100-200$, depending on the airline.

Even if you pay the hefty oversized luggage fees, there is a limit to how large checked luggage you can bring. Each airline considers this individually, and, for instance, American Airlines will allow oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm).

The rules are slightly different for sporting equipment, though. Bicycles, for instance, will almost always be allowed, even if they’re oversized, and their luggage fees won’t be as expensive.

What if my checked luggage is overweight?

Overweight checked luggage is allowed, but will be marked as overweight and will cost an additional 100-200$, depending on the airline. IATA states that checked baggage can’t weigh over 70 lbs (31 kg), to protect the baggage handlers from working with overweight items, so anything over that will be marked as overweight. Each airline has a different limit on overweight checked luggage. For instance, American Airlines will allow checked baggage up to 100 lbs (45 kg).

Do carry-on measurements need to be exact?

Unfortunately, carry-on measurements need to be exact. Most airlines have measurement boxes inside airports, which are in the exact measurements of their restrictions. If your carry-on looks oversized, they’ll ask you to put it inside the measurement box. Carry-on suitcases aren’t really flexible, so you won’t be able to get away with an oversized carry-on. If, on the other hand, you’re using a duffel bag or a backpack as your carry-on, then you might get away with a slightly oversized bag, as you’ll be able to squeeze it inside the measurement box.

Should I get hard or soft luggage ?

There are pros and cons for both, but I personally tend to lean towards fabric luggage. It’s lighter, less likely to crack or break, and you can extend it slightly outwards if you’ve over-packed. On the other hand, hardside luggage offers more protection to your items and is better-looking in my opinion. Modern hardside suitcases made from Polycarbonate are also pretty durable and don’t weigh much more than comparable fabric alternatives. So it doesn’t really matter that much whether you choose a hardside or softside bag – it’s more a matter of preference.

The only real instance where I wouldn’t use a hardside plastic suitcase is in checked luggage. They’re put under a lot more pressure from baggage handling and quite often, they get thrown around and placed at the bottom of a pile of checked suitcases. They’re much more likely to each up with cracks or dents, so using a fabric-checked suitcase would make more sense.

Should I get a rolling or spinner suitcase ?

There are advantages to both, but generally, it’s better to stick with spinner suitcases for carry-on luggage and rolling ones for checked luggage. That’s because while spinner suitcases are much easier to move around, they’re much easier to break off the suitcase. And in checked luggage, they’re much more likely to break off from luggage handling.

Rolling suitcases will usually be more spacious because the wheels are somewhat integrated within the main frame. On spinner suitcases, they’ll extend outwards of the suitcase, which results in a lot of unused space underneath the suitcase. Remember that the wheels are counted towards the total measurements.

But if you’re having back problems or in general lugging around a suitcase gives you hard time, then a suitcase with spinner wheels might make more sense. Compared to inline rolling suitcases, they’re much, much easier to move around – they practically roll by themselves.

How much luggage can I bring on international flights ?

Most airlines will allow one personal item and one carry-on for free on international flights. As for checked luggage, most airlines will allow one or even two checked bags for free for each passenger, and the rest will need to be paid for with additional fees, ranging from 30-100$. In general, the fees increase for each next checked bag and could be as follows: 30$ for the first checked bag, 40$ for the second, and 100$ for each next one.

You’ll be able to bring up to 10 checked suitcases (even though it’ll cost a small fortune!) but on some international destinations, a bit less. Airlines operate within the rules set by airline regulators, and in some countries, each passenger can have only two or three checked bags.

How many pieces and what size should a luggage set be?

Most luggage sets come in three pieces: one carry-on (19-23 inches), one medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches), and one large checked suitcase (28-32 inches). I would advise against getting a 3-piece luggage set like this because quite often, the largest piece in the set is oversized, which means that it’s above the 62 linear inch limit and you’ll have to pay oversized luggage fees.

Instead, it would be much more beneficial to get a 2-piece set containing a carry-on and a medium checked suitcase, or a 3-piece set that also contains a personal item (underseat bag). If you’re getting a 3-piece set with a large checked bag, make sure that it isn’t oversized.

Luggage sets are often cheaper to get than buying each piece individually, so it’s quite often a smarter choice to buy a whole set.

Final Words

Getting the right size luggage is really important because if it’s oversized, you might end up paying extra in fees, or just end up with a lot of unused space. For anyone new to traveling, I’d advise getting a small backpack as a personal item and a carry-on that’s within 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is more than enough for most trips, and I’m usually able to squeeze in everything needed for 2-4 weeks in there. If you’re an over-packer, you might need to swap that carry-on with a medium checked suitcase, which would be 25-27 inches in size (longest end).

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Airline carry-on luggage size: Everything you need to know

One of the most stressful parts of flying can be the packing process, especially if you're trying to fit your items into one or two carry-on bags.

Regardless of whether you are flying a U.S. carrier or internationally, your flying with both a full-sized carry-on and personal item depends on the policy of the specific carrier. We've outlined many of those policies in this guide. Additionally, all airlines have size requirements, and some have weight restrictions.

Read on for all you need to know about traveling with carry-on bags.

What size is carry-on luggage?

As you've likely observed, most domestic airlines allow passengers one personal item that fits underneath the seat in front of them and one larger carry-on suitable for the overhead bin.

Some airlines specify size requirements for both items, while others only restrict the overhead baggage. Just remember that a carrier's policy for the larger carry-on accounts for the size of your entire bag, including your luggage's handles and wheels.

The standard size requirements across the board for most domestic airlines for your larger carry-on is around 22 by 14 by 9 inches, so that's a good rule of thumb to keep in mind.

Here are the carry-on policies broken down by U.S. airlines:

Carry-on items stored overhead must be 24 by 16 by 10 inches. Personal items for under the seat – including purses, briefcases, cameras, food containers, laptops and backpacks — cannot be larger than 16 1/4 by 13 1/2 by 8 inches.

The combined length, width and height of carry-on baggage should be less than 45 inches. Individual items must be less than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

American Airlines passengers should heed the 18 by 14 by 8-inch limit for personal items and 22 by 14 by 9 inches (including handles and wheels) for overhead items, which also must fit in the sizer at the gate.

All under-seat personal items on United must measure within 9 by 10 by 17 inches, while larger items cannot exceed 22 by 14 by 9 inches, including handles and wheels.

Similar to the other domestic carriers on this list, JetBlue says that personal items must measure less than 17 by 13 by 8 inches, handles and wheels included, while overhead items shall be smaller than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines recently changed their carry-on bag size limit for overhead items to be within 22 by 14 by 9 inches, including the wheels and handles.

Hawaiian Airlines

Carry-on items aboard Hawaiian Airlines flights cannot exceed 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

The standard carry-on size for international carriers is slightly smaller than that of the U.S., measuring overall at 21.7 by 15.7 by 9 inches, including handles and wheels.

Here are the carry-on policies for economy passengers on major international carriers:

• Air Canada: 21.5 by 15 by 9 inches.
• British Airways: 22 by 18 by 10 inches.
• Emirates: 21 by 14 by 7 inches.
• Singapore Airlines: The sum of length, width and height of each piece should measure less than 45 inches.
• Cathay Pacific: 22 by 14 by 9 inches.
• Air New Zealand: The sum of length, width and height of each piece must measure less than 46.5 inches.
• Turkish Airlines: 21 by 15 by 9 inches.
• Virgin Atlantic: 22 by 14 by 9 inches.
• ANA: 22 by 16 by 9 inches.
• Korean Air: The total dimensions of the bag must be less than 45 inches (20 by 21 by 15 inches).
• Japan Airlines: 22 by 16 by 10 inches.
• La Compagnie: 21 ⅔ by 13 ¾ by 9 ⅚ inches.

Read more: Your essential guide to duty-free shopping at the airport

Is a carry-on considered a personal item?

As mentioned, all airlines differentiate between smaller personal items and larger carry-on items. If your carry-on bag fits under the seat in front of you, it's considered a personal item, which includes small backpacks, purses, briefcases and laptop bags.

Larger bags, including suitcases that fit in the overhead bin compartment, are labeled as larger carry-on items.

Most domestic airlines allow passengers two carry-on items, depending on their fare type. For example, Southwest stands out among carriers for allowing passengers two free carry-on bags and two checked bags, regardless of fare type. That's also the case for Delta, American, Alaska and Hawaiian passengers.

The cheapest fare types on both United (basic economy) and JetBlue (Blue Basic) restrict fliers to one personal item that can fit under the seat in front of you.

Among international carriers, your fare type also determines whether you are eligible to bring one or two carry-on items, so be sure to pay attention to baggage allotments when booking.

For carry-on guidelines for specific airlines, see our guide for the current carry-on baggage policies for 10 major U.S. and international carriers .

Carry-on luggage weight limits

Though airlines care about size, most domestic airlines do not have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, but some enforce weight limits for specific routes. For example, Delta restricts passengers flying to and from Beijing and Shanghai to a 22-pound carry-on, while bags are limited to 15 pounds to and from Singapore.

Low-cost airlines Frontier and Sun Country both have 35-pound limits, while Hawaiian Airlines limits their carry-on bags to 25 pounds.

Otherwise, you won't likely find a blanket weight policy for carry-on bags for domestic carriers.

Just make sure your bag does not weigh too much that it becomes oversized.

On the other hand, the majority of international carriers specify weight requirements for carry-on bags dependent on the fare type. For economy fares, carry-on weight limits vary among major carriers, including:

• Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Air New Zealand: 15 pounds.
• Turkish Airlines: 17 pounds.
• Virgin Atlantic, ANA, Korean Air, Japan Airlines: 22 pounds.
• La Compagnie: 39 pounds.
• British Airways: 51 pounds.

What is allowed in a carry-on bag?

The U.S. Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) monitors carry-on bags just as they do with checked luggage, prohibiting certain items, including firearms, lithium batteries and other potentially hazardous items outlined here .

Within those confines, you're further restricted to liquids less than 3.4 ounces per their 3-1-1 rule, limiting items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion to 3.4 fluid ounces within a quart-sized bag. TSA recommends you pack full-sized liquids in your checked luggage.

In addition to liquids, your carry-on is the safest place for your most valuable items, such as your purse, electronics, passport, jewelry and medicines.

For inbound international flights to the U.S., you can carry on liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces if purchased duty-free and remain in their secure, tamper-evident bags. You'll also want to hold on to your original receipt to show the purchase was made within the preceding 48 hours, which TSA may request for screening.

Other international border agencies have similar rules prohibiting bringing certain items on airplanes, so be sure to check with your individual airline regarding those rules.

Bottom line

Depending on your fare type, most domestic airlines generally permit travelers to carry on two items — one that fits underneath the seat in front of you, generally labeled as a personal item, and a second item that fits overhead. However, you must meet certain dimension thresholds, which vary by airline.

Personal items include small backpacks, purses, briefcases and laptop bags, while larger bags, including suitcases that lie fit in the overhead bin compartment, are labeled as larger carry-on items.

Carry-on policies greatly vary by international carriers, depending on the fare type, which also determines weight requirements for carry-on bags. However, U.S. airlines generally do not have weight restrictions for carry-on items.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

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Carry-On and Personal Item Size Limits for 32 Major Airlines

Jamie Ditaranto

Jamie Ditaranto is a traveler in a love triangle with writing and photography. Follow the drama on Twitter @jamieditaranto and Instagram @jamieditaranto .

Ditaranto joined SmarterTravel in 2015. She loves ecotourism, cities with history, and discovering local hangouts. Though she likes all the continents equally, she holds a special place in her heart for rainy little islands.

Her work has also appeared online at USA Today, Huffington Post, Business Insider, and other publications. You can check out her photography on her website .

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "My instant camera comes in handy for giving instant gifts to new friends."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Befriending penguins in Antarctica."

Travel Motto : "You have to get the hard places out of the way first."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "On short flights, the window. For long flights, the aisle."

Email Jamie at [email protected] .

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Every frequent traveler has seen passengers rolling their massive carry-ons and lugging equally large bags and backpacks onto the plane as their “personal item.” So exactly how big can your carry-on and personal item be? The general rule about personal item size is that your bag must fit under the seat in front of you, though some airlines do specify maximum dimensions. Meanwhile, airlines have a wide variety of carry-on size restrictions. Many airlines, especially outside the U.S., also have weight limits for carry-on bags and personal items.

Carry-On vs. Personal Item: What You Need to Know About Baggage Policies

For years, personal items have flown mostly under the radar, but in the new world of basic economy—in which airlines are offering cheaper base fares but charging for carry-ons—more and more people will be traveling with nothing but a personal item.

When you’re traveling on the cheap and trying to pack as much as possible into a very limited amount of space, knowing the rules is vital. Here’s a look at the personal item and carry-on size limits for 10 major U.S. airlines and 22 top international carriers.

A few important notes:

• The dimensions below reflect length, height, and width, and include wheels and handles.
• Personal item and carry-on dimensions listed below reflect the size limits for flyers in economy class. (Airlines often have more generous baggage allowances for flyers in first or business class.)
• If you’re traveling on a codeshare flight, you’ll need to check the baggage restrictions for the airline operating the flight—not necessarily the airline through which you booked.
• On shorter trips flown on smaller planes, even regulation-size carry-ons may need to be gate-checked. (In such cases, you shouldn’t be charged the normal checked bag fee.)
• Because carriers can change their rules at any time, it’s a good idea to double-check before each trip.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Alaska flights, your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The following items may be substituted for your carry-on bag even if they’re over the limit: paintings, small musical instruments, art/advertising portfolios, human organs, fishing poles, and “delicate scientific equipment.”

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner

Alaska Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items are only defined as a “purse, briefcase, or laptop computer,” and the airline notes that either your carry-on or personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Jackets, hats, umbrellas, personal pillows, food, child safety seats, strollers, service animals, medications, assistive/medical devices, and a “reasonable amount of reading material” do not count toward your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Mancro Laptop Backpack

Allegiant Carry-on Size Limit

On Allegiant , your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (and you’ll have to pay for it—anywhere from $15 to $45 at the time of booking, $50 at the counter, or up to $75 at the gate).

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Theorym 22x14x9 Spinner

Allegiant Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item on Allegiant is free and may measure up to 16 x 15 x 7 inches. Examples of personal items include purses, briefcases, and small backpacks. In addition, you may bring assistive devices, strollers, a coat, a small umbrella, a diaper bag, and food to eat during the flight.

Recommended personal item: AOTIAN Mini Nylon Backpack

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American Airlines

American Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

American limits carry-on bags to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, although soft-sided garment bags up to a total of 51 inches (length + width + height) are also acceptable. Note that musical instruments and pets will count as a carry-on item.

Recommended carry-on: Elevation Plus 22x14x9 Spinner

American Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Your American Airlines personal item should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Potentially larger items that don’t count as personal items include diaper bags, child safety seats, and medical and mobility devices; these may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Delta Carry-on Size Limit

The maximum carry-on size on Delta is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or a total of 45 inches combined. There’s no carry-on weight limit except at select Asian airports, where the maximum weight ranges from 15 to 22 pounds.

Recommended carry-on: Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Delta Personal Item Size Limit

Delta does not give size dimensions for personal items, but says they should be approximately the size of a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or diaper bag. Things that can be brought aboard in addition to your personal item include jackets, umbrellas, food and drinks purchased in the terminal, strollers, child seats, and medical and mobility devices.

Recommended personal item: CAMTOP Weekend Overnight Bag

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Frontier Carry-on Size Limit

Frontier permits carry-on bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches and 35 pounds. You’ll need to pay for your carry-on bag unless you’re an Elite flyer.

Recommended carry-on: AmazonBasics 20″ Hardside Spinner Luggage

Frontier Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you. All flyers can bring a personal item for free. Coats, diaper bags, canes, assistive devices, and foot rugs “for use during prayer” can all be brought aboard as additional free items.

Recommended personal item: Samsonite Silhouette 17 Wheeled Underseater

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Hawaiian Airlines , your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 25 pounds.

Hawaiian Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

The airline doesn’t offer specific dimensions, but notes that your personal item should be a “laptop bag, briefcase, purse, or backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you.”

Recommended personal item: Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Chevron 15″ Laptop Tote

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JetBlue Carry-on Size Limit

On JetBlue , your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The airline does not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.

JetBlue Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items should not exceed 17 x 13 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat. You can also bring duty-free items (in “a reasonable and limited amount”), a diaper bag, assistive devices, a coat, an umbrella, and/or an infant car seat without eating into your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Briggs & Riley Expandable Cabin Bag

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Carry-on Size Limit

Southwest has a more generous carry-on limit than most U.S. airlines, allowing bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. If you’re bringing a pet, its carrier will count as either your carry-on or personal item.

Southwest Personal Item Size Limit

On Southwest, your personal item must be 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches or less, and fit under the seat in front of you. Assistive/mobility devices, jackets, canes, umbrellas, and food to eat during the flight all count as extras that you can bring in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Ronyes Unisex College Bag

Would You Pay Extra for a Kid-Free Flight?

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

Spirit has a slightly more generous size limit for its carry-ons than most other U.S. airlines, with a maximum of 22 x 18 x 10 inches. The catch, though, is that you’ll have to pay extra to bring anything beyond a personal item.

Recommended carry-on: eBags TLS Mother Lode Mini 21″ Wheeled Carry-on Duffel

Spirit Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, large enough to include a sizable purse or smaller backpack.

Recommended personal item: Lululemon Commuter Multi-Wear Backpack

United Airlines

United Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On United , the maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Note, however, that if you’re traveling in basic economy, you may only bring a personal item. (There are a few exceptions: those traveling on transatlantic flights, and Premier members or primary card members using qualifying MileagePlus credit cards.)

Recommended carry-on:

United Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

United personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and may not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Items such as jackets, umbrellas, diaper bags, food purchased in the airport, assistive devices, child safety seats, cameras, and reading material may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Herschel Nova Backpack

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Carry-on and Personal Item Size Limits on International Airlines

The chart below features the maximum sizes for carry-on bags and personal items on 22 major international airlines. Note that baggage restrictions may vary depending on your specific route. Some measurements are approximate, having been converted from centimeters into inches or from kilograms into pounds.

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Jamie Ditaranto is a writer and photographer who is always looking for her next adventure. Follow her on Twitter  @jamieditaranto.

Editor’s note: Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Carry-on luggage size chart for major airlines

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There’s nothing worse than arriving at the airport excited and ready for your trip, only to realize your luggage is too big and you have to pay extra. Every airline has different restrictions for carry-on luggage size versus checked luggage size, the weights of all luggage and rules about personal items. 

We’ve got the top 10 checked baggage tips you need to know before flying and now, with our luggage size chart featuring the policies of 15 major airlines, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a luggage expert before your next trip.

FAQs about luggage restrictions

All of your questions about standard carry-on size, checked bags and personal items answered. 

What is the difference between a personal item and a carry-on? 

The best way to differentiate between these two pieces of on-board luggage is to think about it like this: A personal item should fit under your seat on the plane; a carry-on item should fit in the overhead compartment of the plane.

Your personal item is normally something like a computer bag, purse, tote bag, diaper bag or briefcase. Your carry-on item can be a duffle bag or a small piece of luggage (that fits within the size limit of the airline you’re flying). If you’re going on a short trip, you’ll probably be able to pack everything you’ll need for the time you’re away in your carry-on bag, and avoid having to pay for a checked bag.

Is there a weight limit for carry-on luggage?

For some airlines yes, for others no. Make sure that you refer to our luggage size chart before bringing your carry-on on board! 

What if my carry-on is too big?

If your carry-on luggage is too big (meaning that it exceeds the maximum height and weight limits for your airline), the gate attendants will probably notice and inform you at your gate. In most cases, you’ll be required to pay a checked bag fee there, and will have to pick up your bag at baggage claim in your arriving airport, instead of having it on the plane with you. 

What’s not allowed in a carry-on bag?

Your carry-on bag needs to go through TSA with you, so anything that you wouldn’t be allowed to walk through the airport scanners with, you also can’t bring in your carry-on bag. This includes sharp objects, ammunition, any liquid weighing more than 3.4 oz, aerosol cans and more. Be sure to check out TSA’s full list of acceptable items for a carry-on if you have more specific questions! 

Bottom line

Luggage restrictions are an inconvenient but necessary part of travel. There’s no one-size-fits-all code in terms of luggage size and weight, travelers need to be aware before every trip. Next time you fly, be sure to check our luggage size chart to ensure you meet all of the requirements. We can’t guarantee smooth skies, but we hope this guide helps you get to the plane without hassle!

Alexandra Maloney

Contributor

Alexandra Maloney is a contributor for Million Mile Secrets where she covers points and miles, credit cards, airlines, hotels, and general travel. She's worked as a writing consultant for the University of Richmond and is a features writer for The Collegian UR.

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Carry-On Luggage Size Guide: How Big Can Your Carry-On Be?

E ven if you now have your packing strategy down to a science, you've probably had at least one run-in with a carry-on bag that won't fit into an unexpectedly small overhead bin as a flight attendant glares with disapproval. Even worse, maybe you have been forced to gate-check a bag when it didn't snugly fit in the dreaded measurement box. Did the airline website understate how seriously gate agents would take size limits, or did you flat-out forget to check?

Restrictions for carry-on luggage vary by airline, types of aircraft, and even ticket class-meaning that suitcase you brought onboard for one flight might be gate-checked on another depending on the size or the carry-on weight limit. Before your next trip-whether you're heading somewhere within the United States or embarking on several international flights-use this guide to make sure your bag will fit in the overhead compartment.

What size should your carry-on luggage be?

On domestic flights within the United States, a carry-on bag that's smaller than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (45 linear inches) , including handles and wheels, will meet the size restrictions of all major airlines, such as United Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Although some airlines-notably Southwest and Spirit Airlines-will allow bags of up to 50 linear inches, it's a good idea to look for a bag that's around 45 linear inches or smaller if you're shopping for a new carry-on and anticipate using it on multiple different airlines).

The size limit varies more widely on non-U.S. airlines, but unless you're flying on say, a small island-hopper in the Azores , 45 linear inches or smaller will allow you to meet the requirements of nearly all of them.

Weight limits for carry-on luggage

Aside from Frontier and Hawaiian Airlines, most major U.S. airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on bags. However, they generally require travelers to be able to lift their own bags into the overhead compartment since flight attendants have a few good reasons for not helping with that . In fact, Delta spokesperson Ben Zhang points out his airline's very specific policy , which notes that "flight attendants are unable to proactively assist customers placing carry-on baggage into overhead bins, with certain exceptions." The exception is for passengers with disabilities, per the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights , which states that airlines "must provide assistance, if requested, such as . . . stowing and retrieving carry-on items, including assistive devices."

Outside the USA, however, most airlines have a weight limit for carry-on bags. They can range anywhere from 11 pounds (Air China) to 51 pounds (British Airways). Many budget airlines, both domestic and international, have strict guidelines and fees for the number and size of carry-on bags-and enforce them-so be sure to check your specific airlines' requirements when traveling abroad.

Carry-on sizes for major domestic airlines (United States)

The carry-on sizes and weights listed in the following tables are generally for a standard, economy ticket (though some airlines, such as Spirit and EasyJet, require a fee for carry-on baggage other than a personal item). Some airlines allow additional carry-ons, a larger bag, or a bag that weighs more than the standard economy weight if you have booked a premium economy, business-, or first-class ticket.

Carry-on sizes for major international airlines departing from the United States

How many carry-ons can you bring.

Most major domestic and international airlines allow economy passengers one carry-on and one personal item. (Business-, first-, or premium-class passengers are usually allowed more.) Basic economy tickets typically allow one personal item but no use of the overhead bin compartments.

What is a personal item?

A personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and usually includes items like purses, small handbags and backpacks, briefcases, and laptop bags . Some airlines allow diaper bags, cameras, and duty-free merchandise-or items purchased within the airport-in addition to a carry-on and personal item. Some airlines will also gate-check strollers.

How to measure your carry-on luggage

To calculate the size of your carry-on bag, measure the length , height , and depth (or width) of your bag. You can add the three numbers together to find the total linear inches. For example, a bag with a length of 20 inches, width of 12 inches, and depth of 6 inches would be 20+12+6 = 38 linear inches.

If you don't have a measuring tape handy, you can also find the dimensions of your bag on the seller's product page online under the product specifications. Many bags also list the dimensions on the hang tag, so instead of throwing that out after purchase, tuck it into one of the pockets so you'll always have it to show any inquiring airline staff. Most airlines also provide boxes where you can check your carry-on before you check in to your flight. This will help you understand whether or not it will fit in the overhead compartment.

What counts as a carry-on?

Generally, a small rolling suitcase, duffel bag, or larger backpack will count as a carry-on bag. Garment bags count as carry-ons, as long as they follow the dimensions specified by the airline. For instance, American Airlines allows passengers to carry on a soft-sided garment bag up to 51 inches in lieu of a standard piece of luggage.

By law, airlines are required to allow passengers to substitute a small musical instrument for a carry-on bag as long as it fits under the seat or in the overhead compartment. Travelers may want to choose a preboarding option to ensure there is space for the instrument, which is not guaranteed.

Travelers can purchase a seat for larger instruments (such as a cello), as long as the instrument adheres to the airline's size and weight guidelines. Military bags and sports equipment are also allowed as carry-on luggage, although bigger equipment-such as surfboards, golf clubs, and hockey gear-may be charged the standard checked baggage fee, depending on the airline's carry-on rules.

What can you pack in your carry-on and personal item?

Carry-on luggage must pass through airport security and, therefore, cannot include dangerous materials or excessive amounts of liquid. According to the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule , they can be a maximum of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per item, they must fit into a quart-sized plastic bag, and each passenger is allowed one quart-sized bag.

In general, food is allowed in your carry-on , though some items may be subject to the TSA's liquids restrictions-just like your toothpaste. One of those surprising things is peanut butter, which the TSA has deemed a liquid. After a great online debate, it announced that since peanut butter has no definite shape and takes the shape of its container, it is, by their standards, a liquid . That's only one of several surprising things the TSA won't let you carry freely onboard .

Carry-on luggage cannot contain cutting instruments, explosives, or flammable materials, although some of these prohibited items are allowed in checked bags. If you have any doubt about a specific item, the TSA's What Can I Bring? site is a helpful resource to consult.

If you need help getting all your stuff to fit into the right size carry-on, consider packing cubes , which not only save space but also help organize your belongings. And if you want to forgo the luggage struggle altogether, including checking in a bag, you can use a company to ship your luggage and breeze onto the plane with just a stylish fanny pack .

This article was originally published in 2019 and most recently updated on January 3, 2024, to include the latest information.

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How To Choose the Right Sized Travel Bag for Any Trip

Finding a properly sized travel bag is a key part of any successful trip, from a simple weekender to a month-long adventure.

Getting Started

There’s a travel bag out there for everyone, and we’re here to help you find it. The process can be a little overwhelming, but narrowing down what needs to fit into your pack is a great place to start. In this post, we’re going to be talking about different bag sizes and their uses. By the time we’re done, you’ll know just what size pack you need (or at least be headed in the right direction).

We’ll cover everything from 1L slings that keep your pockets free all the way up to 60L outdoor adventure packs for carrying the whole shebang. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pack for daily commutes or are ready to jump off the deep end into backpacking across Asia, we’re psyched to help you get started.

Before we get into it, there are a few essential things to consider. When we mention liters, we mean it in terms of volume, not dimensions. Two different 40L travel bags may not fit the same amount of gear. This is highly dependent on the built-in organization, available compartments, and shapes that the pack implements. We notice the most significant differences between different brands, but sometimes even two travel backpacks made by the same company will differ in packability. Ensuring all your gear will fit inside is one of many critical pieces to the intricate puzzle of picking your next travel bag.

Here at Pack Hacker, we have a ton of travel gear reviews, guides, and how-to videos that will help get you started, continue your journey, or find your magnum opus.

Okay—now let’s get into the fun stuff.

Pocket Dump Sling (1L)

Starting off on the small end of the spectrum is the 1L sling, or what we like to call the Pocket Dump Sling. It might seem tiny, but we promise, 1L is bigger than you think! It’s small enough for you to wear it all day without getting uncomfortable, but it will fit just about anything you usually store in your pockets (hence the name).

Use it to carry your daily essentials: a cell phone, keys, wallet, headphones, and even a small point-and-shoot camera or snack. We also love using these packs while traveling to store a passport, earbuds, travel wallet, and other travel documents like a boarding pass. Pocket dump slings are great at the airport because instead of removing all the items from your pockets and slowing up the line, everything is already in the sling. Just throw it on the conveyor belt and continue through the checkpoint.

From this category, we recommend the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack . It’s pretty versatile, as you can wear it as a sling or on your waist, and it packs away nicely for compact storage when not in use.

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack all packed up.

We’ve also found that a sling of this size is great for walks around a new town, city, or nature area while abroad. You can throw your essentials (and maybe a friend or partner’s essentials too, if you’re feeling generous), head out on the town, and keep your hands and pockets free the whole time.

Pockets Plus (2.5L)

If you love slings like we do but crave a little more space, try something around the 2.5L size. We call them Pockets Plus because they fit all the items we usually carry in our pockets, plus a few extra goodies.

This size is excellent for daily use and while traveling because it offers a little more flexibility in what you can bring along with you. Similar to a Pocket Dump Sling, you can leave your pockets empty when you head through a TSA checkpoint. You will also have additional space to bring entertainment like a Nintendo Switch or a small tablet, a couple of snacks, a battery bank, and a few cables to keep everything charged up while you’re on the move. We’ve even been able to fit a packable rain jacket and set of wet wipes, so long as they have a small enough form factor!

The Aer City Sling 2 all packed up.

We love the Aer City Sling 2 , which comes in right at 2.5L. It’s one of the more comfortable carries that we’ve tested, and it has ample space for stowing your gear. We also love its low-profile design, especially while traveling to ensure that we don’t look too touristy. While on the plane, have quick access to entertainment like a Nintendo Switch without digging around below the seat. You can even hook it onto the seat in front of you using a HeroClip for easier access. You’d better stow it during turbulence, though!

Messenger Bag (13L)

If you need to bring along more gear than a basic sling allows, we recommend you grab a messenger bag between 9L and 13L. These packs are great for when you don’t necessarily want the weight of a backpack, but your list of essential items is a little larger, like on short hikes or day trips to nearby towns abroad. If you are set on carrying a sling, there’s also a travel bag subset that's a cross between a messenger bag and a sling.

A 13L messenger bag is a good pick for commuters who want something that won’t take up much space on trains or buses. It’s also a low-profile option if you’re exploring a new city and need more space but don’t want a full travel backpack. These bags are also great for cycle commuting because they aren’t too heavy and allow access to your gear while in transit.

There are many different styles to go with, so it's essential to think about which features are important for your usage needs. A pack with a large main compartment will hold the most gear but lacks the organization that some crave. A pack with more organization may not have as much room for larger items, but each item has a home.

The Peak Design Everyday Messenger all packed up.

In the 13L range, we like the Peak Design Everyday Messenger pack, as it can fit all of our daily go-to gear inside the large main compartment. It does have some organizational capabilities with the included FlexFold dividers, but in our experience, the dividers aren’t the most durable. As we said, it all depends on your specific usage needs.

Daily Bag (15L)

Some people don’t like slings and would prefer to wear a backpack while commuting to work or exploring a new city, which is just fine by us. For a travel bag you can wear every day and carry most of your work essentials, we recommend something between 15L and 18L. This should give you enough space to bring all the gear you need, plus a little bit extra.

Although just a minor step-up from the 13L messenger, we’ve found that those two to five liters can make all the difference. Not only can a daily bag carry everything you need for work, but it will also be versatile enough for extracurriculars, too. So much room for activities!

Hit the gym after work, stop at the coffee shop for a drink and to get your side-hustle on, or even head out for a hike somewhere on the way home. The biggest draw of a daily bag over the smaller packs listed above is the ability to do an abundance of different activities without stopping home to drop off and grab more gear.

The Tom Bihn Luminary 15 all packed up.

We recommend the Tom Bihn Luminary 15 , Able Carry Thirteen Daybag , and Away Small Zip Backpack in this range. Each of these packs will be able to carry a laptop, water bottle, packable jacket, and even a few extra goodies like a tech pouch, phone, wallet, or change of clothes. They all keep a pretty low profile, so you won't feel like you're lugging around a giant travel bag.

Personal Item Backpack (20L)

Shifting from a daily bag to a personal item bag is another small jump, but we’ve found that a 20L travel backpack has just enough space for a weekend trip, or longer if you pack smart. We like this size travel bag because it will likely fit under the seat in front of you on a flight, which means no pesky carry-on fees or worrying about your bag getting lost, which is a big plus. They're great for heading straight to the airport from the office, as they can handle your work needs with your travel accessories added in, too.

It's important to note that it's ultimately up to your airline to decide whether or not a travel bag is allowed to be used as a personal item, but we’ve found that most packs around 20L will fit the bill. It's always a good idea to check the specific rules and dimensions of who you'll be flying with before you start packing, though. There isn't much worse than getting to the airport to find out that your personal item has evolved into a carry-on and that you're stuck with the bill.

After you've stowed your laptop and other travel essentials, you should have room for a packing cube or two. This is great for organization and ensuring that you have all the items that you need for the duration of your trip. If you pack minimally and strategically, you can make a personal item backpack work for week-long trips, too!

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack all packed up.

In this range, we recommend the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack . It has an open main compartment that is great for getting the most out of the volume. Toss in a few packing cubes and a tech pouch, and you're ready to take on the weekend!

Daypack/Travel Backpack Hybrid (30L)

We love the daypack and travel backpack combo because it enables you to pivot between everyday activities and traveling with ease. We like travel bags around 30L for this purpose because anything larger will be a bit too big for daily use, and anything smaller won't have enough gusto for longer trips. Finding that happy medium is vital for a comfortable journey without sacrificing any essential gear along the way.

For us, a good daypack and travel backpack combo needs to fit a laptop, tablet, toiletry kit, several small or medium-sized packing cubes, a tech pouch, and other various odds and ends. However, your packing list may vary depending on how you like to travel.

We keep an eye out for ways to compress or expand a hybrid travel bag because this enables it to be more versatile. Compression straps and compression zippers are both great features that will allow you to adjust the size depending on your needs at the time, but not all brands include these options.

When you arrive at your destination, take out packing cubes and other items that don't need to be with you at all times. Then you can compress the pack (if it has that feature), fill it with what you need for the day, and head out into adventure mode. When it's time to head home, load the gear and cubes back up with any souvenirs you picked up along the way and go to the airport. If you've picked up too many presents for your family back home, a travel backpack with attachment points is great because you can clip additional pouches and accessories on the outside of the pack.

The Knack Pack Series 2 all packed up.

The Knack Pack Series 2 is a pack with a lot of features for more efficient travel. Uncompressed, the pack is 35L, a great size for traveling, but it sizes down to a handy 24L for daily usage. It has a ton of internal organization, ensuring that every item will have a home and nothing will get lost on the journey. Both of these features make it a great contender to get you to and from your destination stress-free, which means you will be able to enjoy your trip more.

Travel Backpack (40L to 45L)

We're now on the edge of what can be considered a carry-on bag, and we have to admit, we’re loving every minute of it. Most 40L packs are about as large as you’ll be able to bring onto the plane, but adding a few more liters is worth it if you can (and want to) check a travel bag.

These packs are the standard size for one-bag travelers who will be away from home for extended periods of time. Suppose you will be spending a few months bouncing around different countries in Europe, a year exploring what Asia has to offer, or country hopping through Central and South America. In that case, this size travel bag has your name all over it!

Now that we’ve made our way to the larger end of the size spectrum, we tend to look for a few features that add quality of life. We like clamshell packs because they give you the ability to see the entire main compartment at once, rather than digging through to make sure you have everything you need for a day's work or specific adventure. It's almost like a suitcase you can wear on your back, and we find we can be most organized and comfortable this way.

The Osprey Fairview all packed up.

One of our favorites in this category is the Osprey Farpoint. The pack comes in both men’s ( Farpoint ) and women’s ( Fairview ) styling at 40L. Our team has tested this travel bag for over a year in over a dozen different countries worldwide and found that it can hold all of our gear and remain comfortable in almost every situation. No bag is perfect, but a quality travel backpack will quite literally be by your side through it all, so ensuring that you get all the features you need is essential.

Gear Hauler (60L)

Ah, finally. The granddaddy of them all.

Have you ever heard the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” and thought, well, what if I want to bring the kitchen sink, too? Then you're in the right place. A gear hauler is a great fit for a road trip where the size of your travel bag isn't the biggest concern. This normally comes in the form of a duffel, but there are a couple of colossal travel backpacks out there if that's your preference.

In the 50 to 60 L range, gear haulers are also great for outdoor adventures and hobbies that require a lot of equipment, like camping. Another great use for such a pack is to transport coats, snow pants, boots, and skiing and snowboarding gear in the winter.

We’ve also run into on-the-move creators who find them useful when packing audio and video equipment alongside their clothes on trips where they won't be able to stop back at home between gigs. The great thing about a huge travel bag is that you don't need to worry about what you’re bringing because of the sheer volume these packs offer. Unless you quite literally bring your kitchen sink, odds are, it will fit.

The YETI Crossroads 60L all packed up.

In this range, we like the YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel . It has a monumentally large main compartment that's complete with two stowable dividers, which is great for separating different kinds of gear. You could do clothes in one, camera equipment in another, and food and snacks in the last one for an epic cross country photography road trip. Or you could fill all three sections with the Pokemon cards you've been collecting since you were a kid and stow it on the top shelf of your closet so your partner thinks you finally got rid of them after all these years. The opportunities are endless!

Wrapping Up

As you can probably tell, there are a ton of travel bags out there, and each one thrives in a different setting. Odds are, you’ll have a use for almost all of the packs we listed here, but it’s about figuring out what works best for you and your specific usage needs. Be sure to check out our gear reviews , guides , and blog for more assistance finding your perfect pack!

January 31, 2022

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

Carry-on Bags Size and Weight Limits

TripSavvy / Nusha Ashjaee 

Carry-on bags are subject to size and weight limits by airlines. Since what we bring in a carry-on is important and we don't want to be separated from those items, it's essential to adhere to your airline's requirements for the size and weight of bags you attempt to board with.

Most carry-ons sold today measure 22" x 14" x 9" inches. As a general rule, U.S. airlines permit luggage that measures a total of 45 linear inches (115 centimeters), which is the combined length, width, and depth of the bag. This measurement includes handles and wheels.

Flights on small planes and international airlines may be stricter with economy-class carry-ons; some will only accommodate smaller and lighter bags. Passengers who attempt to board with larger bags may be required to check them.

To be sure you and your carry-on backpack or suitcase are not separated at the last minute, check with your airline before you start packing as regulations may have changed. Note: On most airlines, a small personal item, such as a purse or briefcase, can be brought onboard in addition to a carry-on.

Major Airlines' Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight Limits

Aer Lingus Inches: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9.5 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 24 Weight: 22 pounds

Aeromexico Inches: 21.5 x 15.7 x 10 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 24 Weight: 22 pounds in Economy. Premier cabin weight: 40 pounds maximum

Air Canada Inches: 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 Centimeters: 55 X 40 x 23 Weight: 22 pounds

Air France Inches: 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 Centimeters: 55 x 35 x 25 Weight: 26 pounds (includes carry-on and additional in-cabin item)

Air Tahiti Nui Inches: 45 Centimeters: 115 Weight: 22 pounds

Alaska/Virgin America Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 35 x 22 Weight: not posted

Alitalia Centimeters: 55 x 35 x 25 Weight: 17.6 pounds

American Airlines Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 36 x 23 Weight: 40 lbs

ANA Airlines Inches: 22 x 16 x 10 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 25 Weight: 22 pounds

British Airways Inches: 22 x 16 x 10 Centimeters: 56 x 45 x 25 Weight: 51 pounds

Caribbean Airlines Inches: 45 Weight: 22 pounds

Cathay Pacific Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 36 x 23 Weight: 15 lbs

Delta Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 36 x 23 No weight limit (except at certain Asian airports)

EasyJet Inches: 22 x 16 x 10 Centimeters: 56 x 45 x 25 No weight restriction

El Al Inches: 22 x 18 x 10 Centimeters: 56 x 45 x 25 Weight: 17 pounds 

Emirates Inches: 22 x 15 x 8 Centimeters: 55 x 38 x 20 Weight: 15 pounds

Finnair Inches: 22 x 18 x 10 Centimeters: 56 x 45 x 25 Weight: 17.5 pounds

Hawaiian Airlines Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 36 x 23 Weight: 25 pounds

Iberia Inches: 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 20 Weight: 22 pounds

Icelandair Inches: 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 20 Weight: 22 pounds

Japan Airlines Inches: 22 × 16 × 10 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 25 Weight: 22 pounds

Jet Airways Inches: 21.7 x 13.7 x 10 Centimeters: 55 x 35 x 25 Weight: 15 pounds 

Jet Blue Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Weight: no restriction

KLM Inches: 21.5 x 13.5 x 10 Centimeters: 55 x 35 x 25 Weight: 26 pounds (includes carry-on and additional in-cabin item).

LATAM Inches: 21 x 13 x 9 Centimeters: 55 x 35 x 25 Weight: 17 pounds

Lufthansa Inches: 22 x 16 x 9 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 23 Weight: 17.6 pounds

Norwegian Inches: Centimeters: 50 x 40 x 23 Weight: 33 pounds 

Qantas Inches: 45 Centimeters: 115 Weight: 15 pounds 

Singapore Airlines Centimeters: 115 Weight: 15 pounds 

Southwest Airlines Inches: 24 x 16 x 10 entimeters (61 x 41 x 28

SWISS Inches: 22 x 16 x 9 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 23 Weight: 17.6 pounds

Turkish Airlines Inches: 21.8 x 15.75 x 9 Centimeters: 55 x 40 x 23 Weight: 17.6 pounds

United Airlines Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 35 x 22 Weight: not posted Note: United offers a Basic Economy fare, which only permits "one small personal item that fits under the seat in front of you, such as a shoulder bag, purse, laptop bag or other item that is 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches." The airline will charge $25 to bring a full-size carry-on aboard, which you can pay for at check-in. Bags brought to the gate incur an additional $25 gate handling charge (total starting at $50). 

Virgin Atlantic Inches: 22 x 14 x 9 Centimeters: 56 x 36 x 23 Weight: 22 pounds

• Airline regulations and baggage policies are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check with the carrier before you fly.
• The sizes quoted are for economy-class passengers. Airlines may permit business and first-class passengers to bring more or larger hand luggage.
• As different airplane models may permit larger or smaller carry-on bags, determine what equipment will be used by your airline.
• On most airlines, a briefcase, handbag, or laptop computer bag is permitted in addition to one piece of carry-on luggage .
• Before or after you pass through security, carry-on luggage may be subject to weighing at the airport. Bags that exceed an airline’s size or weight allowance may be subject to a fee at the gate or removed by personnel and stowed with checked luggage. By weighing and measuring your packed carry-on bag before you leave for the airport, you can avoid extra expense and aggravation.​

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Luggage shop by size

The Ultimate Luggage Size and Weight Guide

Your trip can go from exciting to frustrating quickly if you end up at the airport and discover your luggage isn't the right size. Suddenly you're shelling out more money than expected because your baggage has to be checked, and now you don't have access to your carry on. Before heading to the airport, check out our luggage size guide to stay within the limits.

When to use a Checked Bags

There's a certain convenience that comes with checking your bags. You can pack your carry on minimally, enjoy the lightened load, and still bring everything you need on the trip. With much more freedom to pack what you need, the most difficult decision will now be what bag you bring? Peruse the  Travelpro Checked Luggage page to find the perfect bag for

Checked Baggage Size and Dimensions

While you certainly can pack more when you check a bag, you still have to follow limitations. Checked luggage sizes vary depending on the airline and whether or not you are a "frequent flier" with that particular airline.

We've rounded up all the major airlines and listed the  checked luggage sizes and their limits to help you know what you're getting into.

Checked Suitcase Weight Limits

Airlines impose a luggage weight limit to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring the baggage handlers. Most domestic flights have a checked bag weight limit of around 50 pounds (unless you want to pay a fee to pack something heavier). However, your  international checked baggage size  varies considerably depending on which airline you choose.

When to Carry On

Many airlines allow a free carry on (usually for the overhead bin) and a free personal item (usually for under the seat in front of you). Domestic flights limit their size but don't pay much attention to the weight. International flights have specific size and weight requirements.  Travelpro has a lineup of stylish and functional carry on bags  for every type of trip. Related: See what you should bring in your TSA-approved carry on .

Carry On Bag Size and Dimensions

Domestic flights follow similar guidelines for carry on dimensions: roughly 22x14x9 inches. Check out our rundown of maximum carry-on sizes by airline to ensure you meet the TSA carry on size limits.

When you’re heading overseas, there are different rules to follow. International flights have different guidelines for size, and most also limit the weight of the carry on. Before you fly, make sure you’re not over the weight limit. You can read more about the international luggage standards here.

Helpful Tip: Our modern luggage collections all contain a variety of carry on suitcases that will meet your preferred airlines size restrictions.

Personal Items Limitations

Personal items get stowed beneath the seat in front of you. This space is designed to give easy access to items you might need while flying: laptops, medication, books, and more.

Space is limited, though. If you exceed it, you may have to store your personal item in the overhead bin – and that could result in added fees.

Related: Learn more about  what counts as a personal item and their size limitations .

Knowing what to bring and how big your luggage sizes can be, will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable. As you plan your next getaway, find the perfect bag that accents your personality , and review the size guidelines to know whether you should check or carry on.

FIND THE BEST SUITCASE WITH THE TRAVELPRO® LUGGAGE FINDER

🧭 explore our guides, luggage shopping guides.

Beginner Travel Tips

Airline tips.

Luggage Repair & Maintenance

The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Next to a good carry-on suitcase, the right personal-item bag—what the airlines call any purse, briefcase, or small backpack—is key to having a stress-free flight.

The carry-all at your feet is the best place for your necessities: books, headphones, your phone, a laptop.

Of course, just about any bag, as long as it fits under a seat, can be a personal item, but having a great one is especially important if you’re flying basic economy, which may limit you to a single underseat item.

There’s more to great underseat luggage than its size. In this guide, we go over the features you should look for, including excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options.

From there, we look at different types of personal-item bags that have all those features but are suited to different needs: Some bags are more protective, which is good if you’re traveling with expensive or breakable items. Others are easier to carry, which is helpful if you find larger carry-ons cumbersome. And still others provide more divided compartments and extra pockets for travel necessities. We also offer a few picks to fit different situations.

The research

Why you should trust us, what is a personal-item bag, what makes a good personal-item bag, decide what type of personal-item bag you need, a wheeled bag with reinforced sides: travelpro crew versapack rolling tote, a handsome shoulder bag: waterfield air porter carry-on bag, an adaptable carry-all: the away everywhere bag, a classic tote in nylon: longchamp le pliage tote, the competition.

I’ve covered bags and luggage for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve assessed hundreds of bags, ranging from carry-on luggage to travel backpacks to duffle bags . I’ve talked to bag designers, luggage experts, and people who make a life (and sometimes a living) as world travelers. For this article, we also looked at underseat size regulations for the major domestic airlines.

At its most basic, a personal-item bag is a carry-on bag that you can stuff under the seat in front of you while on a flight—which is why it’s sometimes called underseat luggage. Although we wanted to find bags that maximize your available underseat space, airlines generally aren’t as forthcoming with their underseat dimensions as they are with their overhead-bin restrictions. And personal-item sizes, once you do find them, usually differ from one airline to another:

Air Canada : 17 by 13 by 6 inches Alaska : not specified Allegiant : 16 by 15 by 7 inches American : 18 by 14 by 8 inches Breeze : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Delta : 22 by 15 by 9 inches Frontier : 18 by 14 by 8 inches JetBlue : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Southwest : 16.25 by 13.5 by 8 inches Spirit : 18 by 14 by 8 inches United : 17 by 10 by 9 inches

After checking with 12 airlines, we found that the average size of a personal-item bag is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. If your bag isn’t rigid and comes close to these measurements, you’re probably going to be okay stuffing it under the seat in front of you. If you really want to be sure your underseat luggage will fit, the best way is to call ahead and confirm the underseat dimensions for your flight.

Similar to carry-on luggage, underseat luggage is subject to size and shape requirements. However, unlike most of the things people fly with—nearly all of which are precisely designed for airplane use—almost any small bag (your favorite backpack or tote, for instance) can work as a personal item. That said, there are a few details that separate a great personal-item bag from an ordinary one. Beyond it being just the right size, we’ve found that a personal item should have a few key design details to really stand out.

• Durability: A personal-item bag will spend a bunch of time sitting on an airplane floor, an unappealing resting place of shoe grime, spilled liquids, and lost snacks. It’s important that a bag is made of material that’s both resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.
• Organization: As more airlines begin to introduce Basic Economy tickets, which often restrict travelers to personal items only, having a bag that can mimic some of the capacity and organization of a carry-on becomes increasingly important. We prefer a variety of pockets, ideally a separate laptop compartment, and some kind of water-bottle holder.
• Multiple carrying options: Some underseat luggage pieces designed with air travel in mind have sleeves that you can slide over the rails of carry-on luggage handles. But other carrying options, like backpack straps, shoulder straps, or side handles, can also facilitate easy maneuverability.

Lots of luggage manufacturers now sell bags specifically labeled “personal items,” and some of these have useful features that you might not find in your average backpack or tote bag (more on that later). Still, if you have a bag that already works for you, stick with it. If not, check out our picks below, but also look at the recommendations in our guides to laptop backpacks (most of which will fit under a seat), to duffles (ditto), and any of the picks in our guides to packable daypacks  and tote bags . One of those might work just as well for you as a made-for-the-purpose personal item.

For this guide, of those bags specifically designed to be personal items, we looked for models from reputable brands that we’ve recommended in the past, that meet the average underseat dimensions, and that have the traits to make it a great personal-item bag. Then we chose bags that offered different features to suit multiple types of travel scenarios and preferences.

We have a wheeled-bag pick for people who prefer to roll their bag behind them. We have picks that carry like totes. Some of the bags we chose have pass-through straps to loop over the handles of your carry-on luggage . Though this last feature can help you manage the load of a suitcase and a bag, several luggage designers I’ve talked to over the years have said that one of the most common ways to break a carry-on is to rest something too heavy across the telescoping handles. Though they’re able to pull a decent weight, these handles are not designed to support large or heavy loads across their narrow frames. With this in mind, we have options for travelers who prefer pass-through straps as well as those who don’t.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote

A wheeled bag with reinforced sides.

Designed to fit under an airline seat, this diminutive version of our favorite carry-on luggage rolls along on wheels, has a long extending handle, and its reinforced sides mean it’s tougher than your average fabric tote or backpack.

Buying Options

Who it’s for: The Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote’s small squat form sits on two wheels, which makes it a remarkably maneuverable case for anyone who doesn’t prefer (or is unable) to carry their personal item on their shoulder or back. The Crew Tote also mounts well to the handles of a carry-on suitcase with a pass-through strap that’s held tight with Velcro.

Why it’s great for travel: The compact Crew Tote is large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip but still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. However, if you catch a seat with an underseat power bank or any other kind of obstruction, you won’t be able to wedge this case into place like you might be able to do with a soft bag or backpack. That said, the internal frame, wrapped in nylon fabric similar to soft-sided carry-on luggage, should endure plenty of accidental kicks and scuffs. That reinforcement is particularly useful if you’re packing delicate items, such as cameras, extra computer equipment, or fragile gifts.

We’ve recommended Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage for years in our carry-on and checked suitcases guides because of its durability, dependability, and lifetime warranty (that also protects against airline damage for the first three years). Like those other Travelpro picks, the Crew Tote meets the same standards in materials, build quality, and guarantee.

Pockets and organization: The Crew Tote has one main compartment, as well as a front pocket for small papers and tickets. The main compartment of the Crew Tote is built and organized like a small piece of carry-on luggage, with rolling wheels and internal, zippered organizational compartments, combined with some aspects useful in a personal item, such as a padded sleeve (it holds up to a 14-inch laptop) and a pass-through sleeve. The tote is also compatible with Travelpro’s customizable packing-cube system (video) , which we discuss in the Competition section of our packing cubes guide.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As with any rolling luggage, you lose a little packing space to the handle and wheel carriage. The rigid shape of the Crew Tote means there’s very little wiggle room if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you. Despite the inclusion of a small, exterior, flexible pocket—nominally for an umbrella or water bottle—we found that it was too small to be of much use for anything except a very narrow plastic water bottle.

Dimensions: 16.5 by 15.75 by 8.5 inches Weight: 6.7 pounds Capacity: 22.5 liters

Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag

A shoulder bag to organize your tech.

The versatility and toughness of a canvas-and-leather briefcase, with the organization and capacity of a small daypack.

Who it’s for: The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a high-end personal item made for air travel. But the bag truly shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. Plus, it’s good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the boardroom without raising an eyebrow.

Why it’s great for travel: The Waterfield Air Porter has a pass-through strap you can attach to a wheeled-suitcase handle, and like our other picks, the bag fits well under an airline seat. In addition to the waterproof waxed-canvas exterior, which makes the bag easy to wipe off if it comes out from under the seat looking dusty or spilled-on, Waterfield bags have waterproof exterior zippers and water-resistant interior lining. The Air Porter is built to look better with age, while also keeping your stuff safe from the elements and stress of travel. In addition to the pass-through strap, the bag has handles (so you can carry it like a briefcase) and a removable shoulder strap, which keeps it from getting caught on things while it’s stowed away.

Waterfield also makes an Air Caddy to hold your tablet and cables. If you don’t already have a tech organizer , I recommend it. The Air Caddy is as well built as the Air Porter, plus it fits nicely inside the bag and matches the overall look. (Unfortunately, Waterfield no longer offers a discount for bundling in an Air Caddy when you buy the Air Porter.)

Pockets and organization: The bag is split into two compartments. One half has a built-in padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and two pockets for tech accessories (including wires, headphones, and charging components), both of which are large enough to hold a battery pack for on-the-go charging. The other half is the larger compartment, with plenty of small interior pockets to assist you in organizing things like a few small pieces of clothing or a toiletry kit. The Air Porter also has a front expanding pocket, with magnets that keep the flap closed whether the pocket’s empty or full. It’s a great feature if you often travel with magazines and books. On either side, the Air Porter has two expanding sleeves for holding a travel umbrella and a water bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Air Porter is our priciest pick, but considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, we think it’s worth the price—this bag will last a lifetime if cared for properly. We do wish it were a little larger so you could take full advantage of the space available at your feet. Waterfield has a 30-day return policy with no restocking fee, but you will have to cover return shipping costs. Additionally, Waterfield offers a lifetime warranty for any product defects.

Dimensions: 15 by 10.25 by 4.5 inches Weight: 2.4 pounds Capacity: 11.25 liters

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all to attach to your carry-on.

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Who it’s for: The Away Everywhere Bag feels aggressively designed to offend absolutely no one. It is the true neutral of all personal items, with plenty of carrying options and as many organization options as our other picks. If you want a personal item that’s both simple and well-organized and similar to a weekend duffle bag or large tote (with enough space for a spare outfit, toiletry bag, and a laptop), this is an excellent pick.

Why it’s great for travel: The Everywhere Bag is made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, which is perfect for the floor of an airplane. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, and like most of our other picks, it includes a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, which makes it convenient to carry atop your luggage.

Pockets and organization: The interior features six slim pockets and a sleeve large enough for a 15-inch laptop. At the base of the bag, there’s a zippered waterproof pocket for an umbrella. Outside the bag is a single slim pocket, well-shaped for tickets and important travel documents. Otherwise, the bag opens into a larger interior pocket, which is enough to hold a change of clothes, a toiletry kit, and a book or magazine. If you’re flying for just an overnight trip, this could easily be the only bag you need to carry. (The bag comes in two versions: Original, which has a main zipper that extends partway down the ends of the bag, and New, which has a main zipper that extends all the way down each end of the bag, providing a larger opening.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Without any interior separation, all your gear is mashed together along with your computer and tech. There isn’t a special pocket for a water bottle, which means if you carry one, it is dangerously close to everything else.

Dimensions: 16.3 by 7.3 by 10.2 inches Weight : 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

A stylish, expandable tote.

This tote packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is perfect for the floor of an airplane: It’s easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs and kicks it might receive on a long flight.

Who it’s for: The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is great if you need an adaptable personal item that can easily double as a purse or work bag as soon as you leave the plane. Unlike many bags made to be this tough, the Longchamp is handsome and looks good enough to easily transition from travel bag to daily carry.

Why it’s great for travel: The lightweight (especially compared with leather bags) Le Pliage Tote shines as a travel bag because of its simple, packable design and practical materials. The nylon construction wipes down easily if spilled on, and you can fold it down and pack it away if you want to consolidate down to one bag on any leg of your trip.

The Le Pliage’s shoulder strap is made of rolled leather, which our tester said kept the strap from biting into their shoulder as much as unrolled leather straps can. Its main compartment is large enough to hold a laptop, sweatshirt, water bottle, and other assorted travel items. It zips shut, so you won’t lose anything even as you stuff it underneath your seat. The understated shape and design of the bag also blends in nicely with both professional and casual outfits.

Pockets and organization: There is one modest pocket on top for your phone, wallet, and keys. However, we found that even this pocket felt a touch small.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: For a bag that’s great for taking right from the plane to the office, we wished for a laptop compartment, or some other way to separate items beyond the single top pocket. In our testing, we ended up organizing the tote ourselves with bag organizers . The Le Pliage lacks a pass-through strap or slot for attaching to the handles of your carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 12.25 by 11.75 by 7.5 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds Capacity: 17 liters

Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack: The clamshell design of this backpack, a former pick in this guide, was perfect for anyone who liked to separate their gear into individual pockets and compartments. The bag was well made, shaped to fit under just about any airline seat, and warrantied for a lifetime of travel. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Duffle Bags

by Kit Dillon

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

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Carry-On Baggage Tips

Planning a trip? Thinking about carrying on your luggage for your next flight? If so, here are a few tips for you:

Think Small…

• The maximum size carry-on bag for most airlines is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). Anything larger should be checked.
• Some aircraft have limited overhead bin space, and your personal item will need to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Check with your airline if you plan to travel with oversized packages or luggage.

Think Smart…

• Start with an empty bag to ensure nothing was left inside that shouldn’t be there.
• Some items are only allowed in your carry-on. Before you pack your bags, know what goes in checked, what must carry on and what you should leave at home. Learn how to pack dangerous goods safely in our PackSafe chart . 
• Check with your airline before packing to determine its carry-on guidelines regarding the number of items you may carry on and the maximum size of those items. Some airline rules are stricter than posted regulations. 
• The airline may require most or even all of your bags to be checked, so be prepared to do so. Learn more about gate-checked bags .

Think Safe…

• Carry-on items which may fall from overhead bins can injure you or other passengers during flight or in the event of an emergency evacuation.
• Stow heavy items under the seat in front of you, not overhead.
• Tuck in bag straps to avoid a tripping hazard.
• Don't stack items in the overhead storage bin.
• If an emergency evacuation is necessary, leave your carry-on items on the plane. Retrieving personal items may impede the safe evacuation of passengers.
• If you are asked to check your bag at the gate or planeside, remove your spare batteries and lithium battery powered devices to keep them in the cabin with you. These could include power banks, vapes, cell phones, laptops, etc. 

Have a Question?

• Call your airline or visit its website.
• Check with your travel agent.
• Visit the  Air Travel  section of the Transportation Security Administration website.
• For questions on packing hazmat or dangerous goods, contact the FAA at [email protected] .

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• At the airport

Checked bag policy

Checked bag allowances.

Changes to bag allowances and fees have been updated as of February 20, 2024.

Travel within / between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands – 1st checked bag fee is $40 ($35 if you pay online) and the 2nd checked bag fee is $45.

Travel to / from Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and Guyana – 1st checked bag fee is $35 and the 2nd checked bag fee is $45.

All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, at each check-in location, each way, even if you purchase or get an upgrade that includes free checked bags. If you believe you've been incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days.

• Bag limitations
• Bag and optional fees

How many bags can you take?

Check up to 10 bags on american airlines operated flights if your trip is:.

• Transatlantic
• Transpacific

Check up to 5 bags on American-operated flights if you’re traveling to / through / from:

• Mexico / Caribbean / Central America*
• South America*
• Bag regions

*There are seasonal and year-round bag restrictions

We calculate the size limits of your bag by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag, length + width + height.

For all regions, except to / from Australia or New Zealand, your checked bag allowance is:

• Dimension: 62 in / 158 cm
• Weight: 50 lbs / 23 kgs
• For First / Business, weight is 70 lbs / 32 kgs for complimentary bags and 50 lbs / 23 kgs for excess charged bags

For all confirmed customers on flights to / from Australia or New Zealand:

• Weight: 70 lbs / 32kgs for complimentary bags and 50 lbs / 23 kgs for excess charged bags
• Oversize and overweight bags

What it will cost

In some cases, you won't have to pay the fees for up to 3 bags when traveling on itineraries marketed and operated by American Airlines. If you qualify for complimentary bags based on your AAdvantage ® status or one world ® status, the benefits are based on your highest status level at time of ticketing or check-in.

If your status level is:

• Higher at ticketing than at check-in, show your ticket receipt to the airport agent
• Lower at ticketing than at check-in, current benefits will automatically apply

Free checked bags may not apply to codeshare flights operated by our partners. Visit the website of the airline operating your flight for details.

Other airlines

1st checked bag is complimentary for:

• Eligible AAdvantage ® Aviator ® and Citi ® / AAdvantage ® cardmembers (on domestic American Airlines operated itineraries)
• AAdvantage Gold ® status
• GOL Diamond Smiles members
• oneworld ® Ruby

or when traveling to these destinations:

• El Salvador*
• New Zealand^
• South Korea^
• Transatlantic*

*Excluding Basic Economy

^Excluding Basic Economy for tickets issued on / after June 7, 2023

1st and 2nd checked bags are complimentary for:

• AAdvantage Platinum ® status
• one world ® Sapphire members
• Confirmed Domestic First customers
• Confirmed Business customers
• Confirmed Premium Economy customers

1st, 2nd and 3rd checked bags are complimentary for:

• Confirmed Flagship ® First and Flagship ® Business Plus customers*
• AAdvantage Executive Platinum ® status
• AAdvantage Platinum Pro ® status
• one world ® Emerald
• Active U.S. military and / or dependents with ID traveling on orders (1st - 5th bags free of charge)**
• Active U.S. military with ID on personal travel**

*Applicable only to Flagship ® First International, Flagship ® First Transcontinental and Flagship ® Business Plus. AAdvantage Executive Platinum ® status, AAdvantage Platinum Pro ® status and oneworld ® Emerald members traveling in Flagship ® First may check a 4th bag at no charge

**Free checked bags apply when traveling on American marketed and operated itineraries. Free checked bags don't apply to codeshare flights operated by our partners.

Save time, pay online

Don’t wait in line at the airport – get the best price available and check up to 3 bags when you check-in on aa.com or in the app.

Pay for your checked bags online within 24 hours of departure and receive the best price available for travel on domestic flights within and between the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, and select markets in the Caribbean and Central America.

For tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, save $5 on the 1st checked bag fee for travel within and between the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information about paying for your bags online, visit our customer service FAQs.

Customer service FAQs

All published bag fees apply at each check-in location and are base rates according to travel dates and destination; applicable taxes are not shown.

All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, each way, even if you buy or get an upgrade that includes free checked bags. If you believe you were incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days.

^Main Plus includes 1 extra free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin allowance (max of 2)

^^A $30 1st checked bag fee and a $40 2nd checked bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024. A $40 1st checked bag fee ($35 if paid online) and a $45 2nd checked bag fee applies within / between the U.S. (including HI / AK), Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024. Otherwise, a $35 1st checked bag fee and a $45 2nd checked bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024.

*Free bag excludes Basic Economy: For Basic Economy travel to / from Haiti, a $30 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024 and a $35 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024. For Basic Economy travel to/from Panama / Colombia / Ecuador / Peru a $45 1st bag fee applies. For Basic Economy travel to / from South America (excluding Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname) a $45 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023 and a $60 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023. For Transatlantic Basic Economy travel, a $75 1st bag fee applies. For Transpacific Basic Economy travel for tickets issued on / after June 7, 2023 a $75 1st bag fee applies and for tickets issued on / before June 6, 2023 there is no 1st bag fee.

**For travel to / from Panama and South America (except Guyana and Suriname), a $65 2nd bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023 and a $100 2nd bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023.

Flights departing Canada

Find out how much you'll pay for checked bags and other fees on roundtrip and one-way flights departing Canada, displayed in CAD.

Bag and optional fees - Canada

If your region isn’t listed, we can still help:

• Reservations and ticket changes

Through checked bags

We only through check bags if all your tickets are in the same reservation and you’re connecting to another American Airlines or one world ® flight.

Each passenger traveling to Cuba may only check up to 2 bags* with a maximum weight of 70 lbs / 32 kgs per bag, plus 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item.

• Carry-on bags

*Seasonal exceptions apply to Havana, Cuba effective for travel on / after March 14, 2023

*For travel to Cuba, a $30 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and Main Cabin for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023. For tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023 a $30 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and there is no 1st bag fee for Main Cabin. For tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024 a $35 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and there is no 1st bag fee for Main Cabin.

**For travel to Cuba, a $200 2nd bag fee applies seasonally for travel from November 16 – January 9. A $150 2nd bag fee applies otherwise. Excludes Main Plus for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023.

^Main Plus includes 1 extra free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin allowance (max of 2).

What else can you travel with?

• Mobility and medical devices
• Traveling with pets
• Special items and sports equipment

Restricted items

There are some items that are only allowed in checked bags or your carry-on. Check to see how to pack and travel with restricted items.

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Navigating Airline Luggage Policies

• Stubble & Co
• June 25, 2024
• Products, Tips & Ideas, Travel
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Cabin Bag and Hold Luggage Allowances

Navigating airline baggage policies can be confusing, as rules vary between airlines and from country to country. Understanding different cabin and hold luggage allowances can feel like solving a puzzle, often leaving you worried about unexpected fees upon arrival and complications during your journey - but we are here here to help; clarifying terminology and sharing the dimensions of our bags and how they align with specific requirements for top airlines. Additionally, we'll share some practical tips to ensure you choose the right bags for your trip and pack accordingly. We’ve also included some frequently asked questions around what you can bring on board, versus what needs to be checked in.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, our guide aims to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. By the end, you'll feel confident and well-prepared and ready to embark on your journey without any baggage-related stress.

Decoding Airline Luggage Terminology

When it comes to cabin bags and luggage, there are several terms used interchangeably, which can make it difficult to know exactly what's allowed and what's not. From 'cabin bag' to 'carry-on luggage' and 'hold luggage' to 'checked baggage,' the terminology can vary depending on the airline and the region. But don't worry, we're here to help you navigate through it all and ensure you're clear on what you can bring onboard and what needs to be checked in.

Some airlines additionally have different rules; bags that go under the seat in front of you or bags that go in the overhead lockers. These bags often have different limitations in size and weight.

Alternatives for "Cabin Bags" and "Personal Items"

Carry-on bag, Hand luggage, Carry-on luggage, Carry-on suitcase, Cabin luggage, Hand baggage, Carry-on baggage, Travel bag, Aeroplane bag, Overhead bag, Flight bag, Personal item, In-flight bag, On-board bag, Wheeled carry-on, Small suitcase, Boarding bag, Transit bag, Cabin case, In-cabin bag.

Alternatives for "Hold Luggage"

Checked luggage, Checked baggage, Checked bags, Checked suitcases, Hold baggage, Hold bags, Checked-in luggage, Checked-in baggage, Cargo luggage, Checked-in bags, Hold suitcases, Stowed luggage, Stowed baggage, Cargo hold luggage, Cargo hold baggage, Registered luggage, Registered baggage, Main luggage, Main baggage, Airline hold luggage, Airline hold baggage, Luggage in the hold, Baggage in the hold

Tips for Managing Airline Luggage

Packing efficiently can make a significant difference in your travel experience, saving you time, space, and sometimes even money when you don't have to buy an additional bag. Whether you're heading out on a short business trip or embarking on a long holiday, knowing how to organise your belongings effectively is key.

Here are some practical tips to help you maximise your luggage space, whilst adhering to airline baggage guidelines.

1. Research your airline's policy

To avoid unnecessary charges, whether it is the size of your luggage or the overall weight, ensure you are following each airlines specific guidelines.

2. Invest in packing cubes + foldable bags

Packing cubes are a great way to organise your clothes and maximise your space within your luggage. The best way to pack them is to pack by categories, e.g., one for tops, one for trousers etc. Bags that fold down are invaluable for saving space but are very useful when on holiday and travelling. This means you can carry an additional bag without the bulk. Check out our range of ultra-light bags , the perfect travel essentials.

3. Roll your clothes + utilise all space

Rolling your clothes and smaller items can save you space and also prevents your clothes from creasing - eliminating the need to iron Also try putting any smaller items into shoes such as socks.

4. Keep electrical items and liquids accessible

We all know that security checks at the airport can be tedious when you have to open up your bag and unpack into the trays before packing them again. Therefore, to help, keep your electrical devices and liquids at the top of your bag or in the accessible pockets. Also, try and pre-pack your liquids into a clear plastic bag before your trip and ensure that each individual item is under the 100ml limit. It is important that the container itself is 100ml or less. Note that, for example, a 200ml bottle that is half full will not be allowed through the security check. This will make your security check experience easier and more convenient.

5. Buy a digital weighing scale

Digital scales are portable and therefore you can weigh your bag at home before leaving for the airport or take it away on your travels with you. This will ensure you remain within the airline policies weight allowance on your outbound and return trip, avoiding any additional charges at the airport check-in desk or gate.

6. Wear your bulkiest items

Wearing bulky items saves space in your luggage. If you can, wear your trainers, or bigger outerwear items such as coats and hoodies to help with this.

7. Keep your essentials close

Make sure you have all your essentials for travelling in reach. You will definitely want your phone and passport handy but also a book and headphones for entertainment whilst you travel, as well as any important documents you may need. Perfect bags for quick access to these items are The Crossbody and The Shoulder Bag.

Stubble & Co Cabin Bags

*always check with your chosen airlines before travelling

The Kit Bag 30L

Compatible airlines:

• Easy Jet , RyanAir , British Airways , American Airways , WizzAir , Jet2 , TUI , Virgin Atlantic , Air France

The Adventure Bag

Compatible airlines

• British Airways , American Airways , Air France

The Weekender

Compatible Airlines

• Easy Jet , British Airways , American Airways , Jet2 , TUI, Virgin Atlantic , Air France .

Airline Luggage Policies

Here is a guide to the size and weight allowances for popular airlines so you can ensure that your luggage will follow their rules. Note that this information may have changed but was accurate as of June 2024.

Hand Luggage: Size: 40cm x 30cm x 15cm Weight:23kg

Cabin Bag: Size: 56cm x 45cm x 15cm Weight: 23kg

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 90cm x 75cm x 43cm Weight: 23kg

Additional Information: - Bags over 32kg will not be accepted. - Bag weight cannot be pooled together and therefore the bags must be within the weight limit. - Overweight bags will be charged per journey: £65/$100/$100(CAD)/€75

Hand Luggage: Size: 45cm x 36cm x 20cm Weight: 15kg - must fit under the seat in front of you

Cabin Bag: Size: 56cm x 45cm x 25cm Weight: 15kg - must fit in the overhead locker

Checked-in Luggage: Size: Under 275cm = length + width + height Weight: 23kg

Additional Information: - For bags weighing above 23kg, you can pay £15 for each additional 3kg with a maximum weight of 32kg. - If you bag is heavier than your pre-booked weight, then there will be a charge of £12per kg, per item, per flight. - EasyJet holidays include a 23kg bag - EasyJet flights do not include a bag- cabin bags can cost £35 and a checked in bag can be £50.

Cabin Bag: Size: 56cm x 45cm x 25cm Weight: 10kg

Checked-in Luggage: Size: N/A Weight: 22kg

Additional Information: - In addition to a cabin bag, passenger are also allowed to carry a small person item such as a handbag. - For every kilo you bag is overweight, you will be charged £12 at the airport. - A single bag cannot be over 32kg.

Hand Luggage: Size: 40cm x 20cm x 25cm Weight:15kg

Cabin Bag: Size: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm Weight: 10kg

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 80cm x 120cm x 120cm Weight: 20kg

Additional Information - Hand luggage must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. - A single bag can be no heavier than 32kg. "Bag pooling" is allowed so 2 bags can have a combined weight of booked weight. - If a bag is overweight, you will be charged £11 per kilo, per item, per journey.

Checked-in Luggage: Size: N/A Weight: 15kg, 20kg, 25kg

Additional Information: - Cabin bags are free. - The price of checked-in luggage varies dependant on the weight. 15kg=£60 / 20kg=£68 / 25kg=£78

Cabin Bag: Size: 23cm x 36cm x 56cm Weight: 10kg Suitable Stubble & Co: Roll Top 20L, Roll Top 15L, Everyday, Kit Bag 30L, Weekender.

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 90cm x 75cm x 43cm Weight: 23kg Suitable Stubble & Co: Adventure Bag, Kit Bag 65L.

Additional Information: - All tickets (apart from economy light) come with a checked-in bag. - Additional bags can be brought, starting from £50.

Hand Luggage: Size: 40cm x 30cm x 20cm Weight: 10kg

Cabin Bag: Size: 55cm x 40cm x 23cm Weight: 10kg

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 149cm x 119cm x 171cm Weight: 10kg, 20kg, 26kg, 32kg

Additional Information: - Every passenger gets a free hand luggage. - If you book a priority ticket, you can take a cabin bag on board for free. - Checked-in luggage is not complimentary and must be purchased.

Hand Luggage: Size: 30cm x 40cm x 15cm Weight: 12kg (combined with cabin bag)

Cabin Bag: Size : 55cm x 35cm x 25cm Weight : 12kg (combined with hand lugagge)

Checked-in Luggage: Size: max 158cm (height + depth + width) Weight: 23kg (economy + premium economy), 32kg (business).

Additional Information: - In economy, you can take 1 hand baggage and 1 cabin baggage. - In Premium Economy, you can take 1 hand baggage and 1 cabin baggage. - There will be additional costs if you bag exceeds the dimensions but this is dependant on where you are flying to/from.

Hand Luggage: Size: 45cm x 35cm x 20cm Weight: N/A- It must fit under the seat in front.

Cabin Bag: Size: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm Weight: N/A- must be able to put it into the overhead locker unaided.

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 158cm (height + width + depth) Weight: 23kg and 32kg for Business and First Class passenger

Additional Information: - Bags are all non-refundable once added onto your ticket. - Bag fees differ based on your destination

Hand Luggage: Size: 22cm x 25cm x 43cm Weight: N/A- It must fit under the seat in front.

Cabin Bag: Size: 23cm x 35cm x 56cm Weight: N/A- must be able to put it into the overhead locker unaided.

Checked-in Luggage: Size: 76cm x 52cm x 30cm Weight: 23kg for Economy and Premium Economy passengers; 32kg for Business and First Class Passengers.

Additional Information: - Complimentary hand luggage. - For a cabin bag which is not pre-booked, you will be cahrged $25 at the gate. - On their website there is a "baggage calculator" where you can enter your flight details and find out the baggage allowances and costs fir your individual trip.

Hand Luggage: Size: 33cm x 16cm x 43cm Weight: N/A- It must fit under the seat in front.

Cabin Bag: Size: 55cm x 23cm x 40cm Weight: N/A- must be able to put it into the overhead locker unaided.

Checked-in Luggage: Size: N/A Weight: N/A

Additional Information: - All baggage allowance is based on the destination and route being taken. All information is on their website.

Stubble & Co Hand Luggage

Keep all the essentials in reach so you can grab-and-go for a hassle free trip.

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• Arctic White
• Ember Orange

The Roll Top 15L

The Tote Bag

The Everyday Backpack

The Commuter

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The Shoulder Bag

Frequently asked questions.

• Location: Cabin bags get stored in the overhead lockers and hold luggage are placed underneath.
• Access: Cabin bags are with you entirety of your journey whilst hold luggage can only be accessed at your final destination.
• Size and weight: Cabin bags are typically smaller and lighter than hold luggage. Look at your airline's luggage policy for more information.

You may face an additional fee or be asked to place it in the hold underneath the plane. This means you will not have access to your belongings. Or, you may have to rearrange between your hold luggage and cabin luggage.

• Weigh your bag at home before leaving for the airport.
• Pay for an additional bag or heavier weight bracket so you can avoid additional charges by your airline. Pre-paying for a bag online is often cheaper than at the airport.

This does depend on your airline, often you have a cabin bag in the overhead locker and a personal hand luggage under the seat in front, check out this article for information about your airline or visit their website.

No. Each airline differs and it is important to check the luggage policy for the airline you are flying with.

No airline accepts a single piece of luggage above 32kg due to health and safety of luggage handlers at airports.

Measure the dimensions of your bag once it is packed and full and compare then to the luggage policy of the airline you are flying with. Make sure to include the wheels within these measurements as they will be included in the overall dimensions.

• We would recommend attaching a luggage tag to your bag with contact details provided.
• Report it immediately at airline's help desk in the airport or the help desk at the baggage claim.
• Fill out a PIR (Property Irregularity Report). Here, you are giving your details and contact information to the airline so they can get in contact with you regarding your luggage and potential compensation.
• Domestic Short-Haul : 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
• Domestic Long-Haul : 2 hours before departure.
• International Short-Haul : 2 to 3 hours before departure.
• International Long-Haul : 3 to 4 hours before departure.
• It is dependent on when you travel. If you are flying during a public holiday or summer holidays then these often are peak travel times and airports can be busier so allow yourself more time.

Of course! It is cheaper to pre-book luggage when you book your flights than paying at the airport check in.

• These need to be pre-booked and paid for.
• They are checked-in and stowed underneath the plane.
• Some airlines do not have the space underneath the plane so check your airline luggage policy.

Some airlines have a point or loyalty scheme.

E.g., British Airways have Avios points which are collected by booking with them multiple times. These can then be used to pay for flights or upgrading your class.

• Size: Choose a bag that has dimensions which work across multiple airlines dimensions so you can use it for multiple trips.
• Durability: A bag needs to last the rough and tumble of travel. Wipe-ability is often important too.
• Functionality: Are you looking for multiple compartments, easy-access pockets, reliable zips, separate laptop compartment? Consider which features are most important to you.
• Carry options: Think about what you would you prefer- wheels, backpack carry or duffle?
• Weight: You want a light weight bag so you can maximise the weight you have paid for.
• Style and colour: Choose one that goes with your individual style.
• Sustainability: Choose a bag which is sustainable and made from recycled materials.
• Airlines often have different rules for international and domestic flights.
• Long-haul flights often include complimentary hold-luggage as part of the ticket but always check your booking.
• Budget airlines often have stricter rules than full-service airlines.
• If you are booking a connecting flight or are going on a trip with multiple destinations, ensure you are adhering to the weight and size limits for each airline.
• There are dimensions of each product in the specifications section of the product page. It is important to compare these to the dimensions allowed by your airline.
• There is also a "carry-on" symbol- an example here on the Kit Bag 30L

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Airlines Luggage Size And Weight Calculator ( Free Tool )

This Airline baggage size and weight calculator, will help you get all the information you need in one place, and how much luggage you can take on a plane for your specific airline to avoid any last minute charges.

Simply select your airline and get the details for carry-on and checked baggage size and weight.

The information shown are standard for economy class tickets, we are committed to continuously updating and expanding our database to include additional airline policies.

Carry-on Size Limit:

Carry-on Weight Limit:

Personal item size:

Checked Bag Size Limit:

Checked Bag Weight Limit:

Tip : Check out this Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Carry-On Spinner, a sleek and versatile carry-on that is designed to fit within the limits of most airlines, to save you from the hassle of the airports and the pesky airline fees.

Whether you are traveling with a suitcase, duffle bag or backpack ensure that you always stay within your airlines size and weight limits.

Most airline do not really care about carry-on luggage weight as long as your bag is light enough that you can store it in the overhead bin without any help.

For checked baggage both size and the weight matters, and the majority of airlines calculate checked bags by combining the three dimensions of the suitcase Height + length + width ( calculate your suitcase linear dimensions here ) and use this travel packing calculator to get an estimated weight of your clothes and and suitcase before you travel.

Failure to meet some airline requirements can result in some whopping fees, gate check in your bags and some times even preventing the bag from carry-on and checked baggage if it excessively exceeds the airline weight or size limits.

The smaller the size of your bag the more chance that your suitcase will fit with any airline carry-on size and weight.

In addition to luggage rules, it is important to familiarize yourself with what is not allowed on a plane carry on , and checked luggage to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience at the airports.

We will keep updating this airline luggage calculator to have the specific size requirements for any airline in the world. ( what is missing in the calculator? please send email to ( info ( @ ) travelclosely.com ) or use the contact from.

Check out our latest blog posts 

• Can You Bring Nuts On a Plane?
• Can You Bring Oatmeal On a Plane? TSA Rules
• Are Wallet Chains Allowed On Airplanes?
• What Does TSA Do With Confiscated Items? (Detailed Guide)
• Can You Bring Eyeliner On a Plane? TSA Rules

Protect Your Trip »

What is allowed in a carry-on bag.

Follow this guide to pack like a pro and ensure airport security is a breeze.

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Know what you can and can't include in your carry-on bag so you'll be best prepared for your next airport experience.

As all air travelers know, it can be incredibly frustrating to discover you've packed something that isn't allowed through airport security. Whether traveling for pleasure or business, you can make your flight smoother by understanding the restrictions affecting your carry-on luggage. Use this guide to take the hassle out of your next trip.

The 3-1-1 Rule or Liquids Rule

Carry-on allowances and restrictions are determined by the Transportation Security Administration. These rules apply to items in carry-on bags (carry-on-sized suitcases, backpacks, purses, laptop bag and mores) that you plan to take through security. The TSA's 3-1-1 rule outlines the travel limitations for liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes. Here's a breakdown:

• 3: All travel-sized containers must hold no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of liquid.
• 1: All containers holding liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes must be placed within one sealed quart-sized bag.
• 1: Only one quart-sized bag is allowed per passenger, even if you have multiple carry-on bags for your flight.

Keep in mind that purchasing additional carry-on luggage will not allow you more of these restricted items. Additionally, containers that hold more than 3.4 ounces will not be allowed, even if they are not completely full.

The following list covers many of the items you're allowed to pack in your carry-on . Read on for more information on each type of item and what limits apply.

Sports and exercise equipment

Dietary supplements, blankets and pillows, medical items and equipment, razors and other hair removal tools, food and snacks, personal electronic devices and accessories, smoking paraphernalia, nature-related items, solid candles.

The top travel priority for any new parent is how to care for your baby while on a flight. While the 3-1-1 rule applies to most carry-on items, you'll be happy to know that items related to the care and feeding of your baby are less restricted. Baby formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and food for babies and toddlers are considered medically necessary liquids by the TSA, so quantities larger than 3.4 ounces may be packed separate from the quart-sized bag in your carry-on baggage.

Accessories needed to transport these items, such as ice or freezer packs, are also allowed without restriction. These items can be transported even if you are traveling without the liquids or your child, but you must inform a TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process. To make your security experience smoother, TSA also recommends you transport any liquids in clear, translucent bottles rather than plastic bags or pouches. In addition, the following items can be packed in your hand luggage: a baby carrier, a child car seat, baby powder, baby wipes and a breast pump.

Whether you are a serious athlete or a casual player, most sports and exercise-related equipment is allowed in your carry-ons. The following sports balls can be included: basketballs, baseballs, footballs, soccer balls, golf balls, bocce balls and bowling balls. Sports cleats and helmets are also permitted. Golf enthusiasts can pack divot tools and tees, but there are restrictions for other golf equipment. If you're headed to a cold climate for some outdoor fun, you can pack your snowboards, snowshoes and ice skates. Crampons are also generally permitted in carry-on bags, but TSA officers can remove them at their discretion.

Your helmet, bicycle chain and bicycle pump can be packed, but bicycles, skateboards, hoverboards and segways may face restrictions based on your airline's carry-on policy. Additional sports and exercise equipment allowed in carry-on luggage includes rollerblades, longboards, boxing gloves, fishing poles, small fishing lures (with sharp objects properly sheathed), pickleball paddles, tennis rackets, foam yoga blocks and yoga mats. Sports equipment that can be used as a bludgeon, such as clubs or bats, is not allowed in the cabin.

Dietary supplements, protein powder and energy powders (like pre-workout and creatine) are all allowed in powder or pill form. If you are packing powder-like substances greater than 12 ounces (350 milliliters), be sure to place the containers in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening or need to be opened for testing.

These are not restricted by the TSA. If you don't yet have a travel blanket, U.S. News recommends the BlueHills Premium Soft Travel Blanket Pillow for airplanes. It doubles as a blanket or pillow for the plane. If you have a favorite pillow that you can't imagine sleeping without, have no fear: Pillows can be packed in your carry-on luggage without restriction. Or, consider one of U.S. News' top travel pillows .

Dealing with medical needs can be stressful enough without adding travel. If you're concerned about accommodating your needs, alert your airline at check-in to ensure you have a positive experience. Medications in pill form, including vitamins, are typically allowed without major restrictions, though destinations sometimes have their own regulations. Any liquid, gel or aerosol medications that are medically necessary (including insulin, EpiPens and inhalers) can be transported in excess of the 3-1-1 rule, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

Pill organizers are a great option for traveling with basic medication, but prescriptions are best kept in their original packaging or clearly labeled. If your mobility is limited, inform the TSA officer at the checkpoint so accommodations can be made to screen you and your belongings safely and quickly. For more information regarding disability and medical conditions, check out the TSA's website or contact your airline.

Many makeup products are limited by the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-on luggage. If you are traveling with any of the following, you will need to adhere to the 3.4-ounce restriction: concealer, liquid eyeliner, foundation, mascara, other liquid makeup and makeup remover. Solid and powder makeup are not restricted but will need to be placed in a separate bin for screening if they exceed 12 ounces (350 milliliters). Lipsticks, lip balms, makeup wipes and airbrush makeup machines can be packed in carry-ons without restriction.

The following cosmetics are also restricted by the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: hair gel, hairspray, aerosol hair texturizer, nail polish and nail polish remover. Nail clippers and metal nail files are unrestricted but should be sheathed to avoid injury. Hair styling tools like curling irons and straighteners should have their heating element safely covered if they're cordless.

Since many toiletries are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 restriction, consider packing your carry-on items in a TSA-approved toiletry bag like one from PACKISM or check out U.S. News' picks for the best toiletry bags . Items subject to the 3-1-1 rule include liquid and aerosol deodorant, cologne, perfume, shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, lotion, sunscreen and toothpaste. Outside of your clear quart-sized bag, you can pack your solid deodorant, toothbrush (manual and electronic), tweezers and mirrors. For recommendations on eco-friendly travel-sized products, check out this piece on sustainable travel .

Disposable and electric razors are allowed without restriction, but sharp edges should be securely sheathed to avoid injury. Safety razors are allowed, but the blades must be removed and packed securely in your checked bag. Laser hair removal devices and hair clippers are not restricted, but shaving cream must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule.

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All drinks are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, including bottled water, coffee and tea (in liquid form), juices, smoothies, soda, and alcoholic beverages up to 70%. TSA requests that you do not consume your personal alcohol in-flight. An airport's duty-free section is a great alternative to trying to pack alcohol.

If you prefer to travel with your own cup or container for beverages (such as a coffee thermos or water bottle), you will need to ensure it is empty before passing through security. You can fill empty beverage containers on the other side. Ice must be frozen solid when passing through security or it will be subject to the 3-1-1 rule.

Solid foods are allowed through security but may be restricted by your arrival destination, so be sure to check travel regulations for your destination. Some foods can cause obstructions during the X-ray process, so the TSA recommends you remove food items from your bag before screening. Allowed foods include bread, cereal, cheese (solid), cooked meat, cooked seafood, cooked vegetables (no liquid), fresh eggs, nuts, pies and cakes, pizza, salt, sandwiches, spices (dry), coffee (beans or ground), and tea (dry tea bags or loose tea leaves).

The following food items are allowed but restricted by the 3-1-1 rule: canned foods, cheese (creamy), chocolate (liquid), cream, creamy dips and spreads, gravy, honey, hummus, ice cream, jam and jelly, maple syrup, oils and vinegars, peanut butter, salad dressing, salsa and sauces, soups, and yogurt. Small snack foods can also be taken through security. This includes candy, chocolate (solid), cookies, crackers, dried fruits, gum, popped popcorn, nuts and snack bars. Fresh fruits and vegetables are permitted as long as your destination doesn't have any restrictions on the item.

Personal devices should be packed in a convenient location in your carry-on luggage because electronics must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin for screening. This includes cell phones, desktop computers, digital cameras, laptops and tablets. Consider purchasing a travel backpack with a separate pocket for electronics, like the Solgaard Lifepack Endeavour (with closet) , to make security a breeze.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Cigarettes, cigars, hookahs, tobacco and tobacco pipes are permitted without restriction, but you are strictly prohibited from using those items aboard most aircrafts. If you do pack these items, make sure any disposable or Zippo lighters are emptied of fuel and that any arc lighters, plasma lighters, electronic lighters, lithium-battery-powered lighters, e-lighters, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are stored in a way that prevents accidental activation on the plane. This can include removing the batteries and either placing the item in a protective case or using a protective cover, safety latch or locking device. Any e-liquids must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule.

Batteries for commonly owned devices are allowed in carry-on bags. This includes dry batteries (AA, AAA, C, and D), lithium batteries, fuel cells and nonspillable wet batteries. Large batteries, such as those used for vehicles or wheelchairs, are typically restricted. If you must travel with a battery of this size, you should speak with a TSA agent and your airline prior to going through security. Additional information on battery restrictions can be found in the Federal Aviation Administration regulations .

While TSA doesn't restrict natural items like rocks or shells at security, it is important to check the restrictions for your arrival destination as many have restrictions to avoid the possibility of introducing an invasive species to a new environment. Assuming no destination restrictions, flowers can be brought through security if they are not in water. Live corals, live lobsters and live fish can be transported in water if they are in a clear container and have been inspected by a TSA officer.

Typically, any tools that are 7 inches or less in length are allowed in carry-on bags. Tools exceeding this length are restricted. Keep in mind that sharp objects must be properly sheathed to avoid potential injury. Multi-tools that do not have knives but do contain scissors shorter than 4 inches are allowed, but multi-tools with blades are prohibited.

You can bring one book of safety matches on board, but they must not be strike anywhere. Parachutes can also be brought as carry-on luggage but must be packed separately from other luggage. Flashlights are not restricted but be sure to check that the batteries meet TSA regulations before you pack.

Solid candles are unrestricted, but make sure to check the section below on what isn't allowed in carry-on bags to see what restrictions there are for other candle types.

These are allowed through TSA checks without restrictions, but you should check with your airline as each may have its own size and weight restrictions. A safe bet is to purchase an umbrella like the Weatherman Travel Umbrella which weighs less than a pound and measures just under 12 long when closed. It also comes with a handy sleeve to keep the rest of your luggage dry when stored.

Additional items

If there's an item you want to bring that you don't see covered in this article, do not fret. You can check with your airline or the AskTSA team for more information.

What Isn't Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Here is an overview of items that are not allowed in the cabin when you fly. Check the TSA page What Can I Bring? for a full list.

• Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof, or 70%, are not allowed.
• Weapons: You cannot bring knives (pocket, swiss army, utility, kirpans, razor-type blades), guns (BB, cap, pellet, compressed air), ammunition and gun powder, axes and hatchets, bows and arrows, firearms and rifles, martial arts weapons, and realistic replicas of weapons in your carry-on.
• Weapons (self-defense): These include kubatons, pepper and self-defense sprays, brass knuckles, blackjacks, night sticks, stun guns and shocking devices, and tactical pens.
• Explosives: Items creating or replicating an explosion are banned. This includes bang snaps, dynamite, English Christmas crackers, firecracker, fireworks, flare guns, flares, hand grenades, party poppers, sparklers and vehicle airbags.
• Certain sports and exercise equipment: Items that can be used as a bludgeon are not allowed in the cabin. TSA restrictions apply to clubs, bats, hockey and walking sticks, canoe and kayak paddles, bowling pins, darts, hiking and ski poles, ice axes and ice picks, shoe and snow spikes, snow cleats, starter pistols, and more.
• Certain medical items and equipment: Battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility devices, gel heating pads, and a mercury medical-clinical thermometer cannot be carried on.
• Tools: Restriction prohibit box cutters, crowbars, drills and drill bits, hammers, nail guns, saws and screwdrivers longer than 7 inches.
• Flammable gases and liquids: Be sure not to pack engines and engine-powered equipment, fire extinguishers and other compressed gas cylinders, fuels, spillable batteries, strike anywhere matches, flammable paints (liquid, gel, spray, aerosol), turpentine and paint thinner, and more.
• Safety razor with blades
• Gel-type candles

The rules and restrictions outlined in this article aren't the only things to consider when packing your carry-on. In addition to the 3-1-1 rule, travelers should be aware that some airlines have different regulations on the types of items, liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes that are allowed onboard. This is particularly important when traveling internationally as restrictions differ by country. For example, New Zealand is a particularly restrictive country when it comes to traveling with foods, plants, seeds and grains due to its delicate ecosystem.

Confirm your destination restrictions before packing to avoid difficulties getting through customs when you arrive. TSA agents are also given the authority to make the final call on whether an item is allowed through security, so it's best to pack things you're uncertain about in your checked luggage rather than your carry-on.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta is an avid traveler who has navigated packing carry-on luggage for a variety of trip destinations and durations. Through thorough research and accidental snafus over the years, she's discovered the best ways to take the hassle out of packing. She also loves finding new items and tools that make packing and security a breeze. Recent favorites include her Béis The Carry-On Roller and Solgaard Lifepack Endeavour (with closet) .

You might also be interested in:

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline.

• How to Pack a Suitcase Like a Pro
• The Best Personal Item Bags
• What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
• The Top Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update)

We’ve all been there – finally settled into the seat when you realize your sweater – book – whatever – is in the overhead compartment. Your choice is now to do without your needed item, or squeeze back into the aisle, jostling your neighbors as you wrestle your bag from the packed bin, dig through it, and return, chastened, to your seat. Or you could choose the best personal carry-on bag, the one small underseat bag most airlines allow, and you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. And won’t your trip be easier without annoyed seatmates?

Table of Contents

What’s the difference between a carry-on and a personal item?

Most airlines allow full-priced passengers to bring two bags on board – a carry-on bag that is stowed in the overhead bin and a personal item that must fit under the airline seat in front of you.

(NOTE: most airlines require those seated in emergency rows and those in the bulkhead seats stow all bags, including hand luggage, during takeoff and landing)

Examples of 2022 Personal Size Item specifications Be sure to check with your airline for your flight’s in-cabin allowance. American Airlines – 18″ x 14″ x 8″ (45 x 35 x 20 cm) British Airways – 16″ x 12″ x 6″ ((45 x 35 x 20 cm) JetBlue -17″ x 13″ x 8″ (43.2 x 33 x 20.3 cm) Lufthansa – 15″ x 11″ x 3.9″ (40 x 30 x 10 cm) United Airlines – 17″ x 10″ x 9″ (43 x 25 x 22 cm)

Skip the intro, go directly to the bags.

This post includes affiliate links. we may earn a small commission at no additional expense to you if you purchase something or take an action on one of these links. none of these bags have been given (or discounted) to traveling tulls for review.   disclosure, how to choose the best personal bag for you.

>Read our testing procedure below .

Consider YOUR air travel needs and carry ability

Contents: What do you need to have available during flight? (or want close at hand)

__ EDC – wallet, passport, travel essentials __ Cell phone, tablet __ Laptop – size? __ Camera – type, lenses, etc.? __ Reading material (for work or pleasure) __ Headphones – size? __ Water bottle, snacks

__ Children’s needs – diapers, toys, etc. __ Medication/first aid supplies __ Travel pillow __ Light sweater, scarf, or wrap __ Change of clothing __ Toiletry bag

Versatility: how can you use the bag during your trip (or at home)

Will you be using the bag for meetings on business trips? Can it double as a travel purse or stylish tote while you’re exploring a new city? Will it work as a day bag for cruise excursions? Or will it be stored until the return flight?

Can you use the bag at home? Strongly consider a bag that’ll be useful in your day-to-day life!

Physical Carry: what’s best for you

Consider your destination. If you anticipate walking on cobblestone streets and climbing stairs with your bag, avoid a bag with wheels. If you will be heading to a damp climate, consider a water-resistant bag.

Consider your abilities. Be realistic about what you can carry and for how long. Choosing the right size bag is essential.

If you are planning on traveling carry-on only , prioritize the capacity of the bag.

Budget: what makes sense

IF you need to purchase a bag, set a firm budget for your bag. There are good bags in all price ranges.

Balance durability with price. If you’re a frequent traveler, you might spend more to get a bag that’ll last for years. If not, find a bag that works for you at a good price and don’t stress the quality.

What to look for in a personal item bag

• Organization: Under the best of circumstances, accessing an under-seat bag is difficult. Having a well-organized bag with easy access to exterior pockets will make finding everything easier.
• Zipper closures: Secure your bag to avoid having your items roll around the cabin during turbulence.
• Multiple carry options: Carrying the bag as a backpack can be comfortable, but you won’t always be able to get that bag on your back (crowded subways…). Having other options is great!
• Durability: Your bag may see some rough carry on your trip. Buying a well-made bag will insure you don’t have straps break or zippers fail. (As mentioned above, if you don’t travel often and don’t want to invest in an expensive bag, there are many durable but inexpensive bags that might work for you.)
• Style: A bag that’s suited for the office is very different that what you’d bring to the beach…

Test pack your bag!

There’s no shortcut here. if you want to find a bag that’ll work as your personal item, you will need to see, pack, and test carry the bag. Borrow or buy the bags you are considering. (Make sure you can return the bag if it is not a good option.) Pack and test them at home, or better yet, in a mall where you can get a real feel for walking with a bag.

Make a packing list of what you expect to carry on your flight. If you plan on using your bag at home too, make a basic pack out for those uses as well. Carry the bag for at least 15 minutes to get an idea of how it feels on your shoulders and back. Practice taking the bag off and putting it on to see how easily you’ll be able to maneuver and get quick access to the bag.

Important : Be smart and considerate if it’s a possibility you’ll return the bag. Don’t put the bag down on dirty surfaces, remove tags, carry liquids, or do anything else that might damage the bag. A simple 15-minute walk around should leave the bag in an unused condition.

Disclosure: Unless noted, I have tried and tested these bags. If we have not had personal experience with the bag, we have had it highly recommended by other female travelers.

15 best personal items bags for every trip

For most US and International Airlines allow dimensions that add up to 36″ (90 cm) The following bags will likely be accepted without question. If you are pushing the limit on bag size, choose a dark color to be less conspicuous:

Best personal item bags with wheels

Anytime you add wheels to a bag it becomes more difficult to fit under the seat in front of you. (Especially if you’re unlucky enough to get a AV box mounted under that seat). But for some, having a rolling suitcase is essential. If my carry-on for the overhead compartment is a large backpack or duffel, having a rolling tote to load the larger luggage on makes getting around the airport a lot easier.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB port

• Dimensions: 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9″
• Weight: 5.6 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Price [2023] – $$ – See on AMAZON

I will always pick a spinner case as four wheels are so much easier to roll through the airport and along the narrow plane aisle. I haven’t traveled with this bag (yet!) but love the wide front packet, and the fact that the laptop sleeve is removable. There is also a USB port (just a port, no built-in battery) which is handy for quick charges.

Travelpro Max5 Lightweight Rolling Tote

• Dimensions: 16″ x 13.75″ x 8.5″
• Weight: 5.5 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Capacity: 32 liters
• Price [2022] – $$ – See on AMAZON

Travelpro is a great brand and this bag seems to be well thought out. It’s one of the lightest rollers out there, which is important as no matter that it rolls, there will ALWAYS be times when you need to lift the bag.

Best lightweight personal item bags

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

• Style – 🎒 backpack
• Dimensions 13.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″
• Weight 0.81 lbs. | .37 kg.
• Volume – 27 L
• Laptop/Device Carry
• Price [2024] – $99

I love this bag for light travel. It’s basically a black hole (as the name implies) but I can fill it with all my inflight necessities: neck pillow, kindle, tablet, purse, one day packing cube, etc. Then at my destination I use it as a tote or day pack BUT I can also fold it up and put it away. Especially helpful if touring and bags are being ported from one place to another.

Pros : lightweight, made from 100% recycled materials, front pocket, zip and cinch closure, packs flat inside your luggage.

Cons : little structure and support.

Lands End – Travel Carry on Tote Bag

• Style – tote
• Dimensions 18″ x 15″ x 6″
• Weight – 1.25 lbs. | .57 kg.
• Volume – 28 L
• Laptop/Device Carry –
• Price $ – See on AMAZON

Pros : inexpensive, very durable, spacious main compartment, useful at home as well as when traveling, trolley sleeve.

Cons : very basic, no internal organization, likely too large for most airlines unless under-packed,

Osprey Daylite Plus backpack

• Style – 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10″ x 9″
• Weight – 1.2 lbs. | .54 kg.
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – sleeve for tablet or hydration pack

Pros : very lightweight and roomy, one external pocket and a ‘shove-it’ pocket for stashing a jacket or scarf while going through security. Will attach to a larger bag like the Osprey Farpoint.

Cons : not designed for long carry. no dedicated padded laptop compartment.

Osprey Daylite Tote Pack

• Dimensions 17″ x 15″ x 8.25″
• Weight – 1.18 lbs. | .54 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ laptop

Pros : two carry options, water bottle pockets on side.

Cons : little built-in organization

Disclaimer : I am recommending based on my experience with other bags in the Daylite line. Though I prefer the Daylite Plus Backpack, I include this bag as being able to carry it as a tote is better for many.

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack

• Dimensions  16″ x 12″ x 5″
• Weight  – 1.45 lbs. | .65 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ laptop
• Price [2022] – $89

A lightweight, small backpack ideal for women. This bag features removable tech sleeve for laptop, chargers, etc. Removing this bag leaves a wide-open space ideal for beach outings, etc.

Pros : Multiple carry options (backpack or tote), breathable back panel, compact size is ideal for those with small frames, multiple color options

Best midweight personal Item Totes

My top pick for a classic underseat bag: Solgaard Voyager . This is an elegant bag, great for business carry or city travelers.

Solgaard Voyager Weekender

• Dimensions  – 17.7″ x 11″ x 8.7″
• Weight  – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 16″ laptop
• Price [2024] – $220

Pros : opens flat for easy access, includes compression ‘closet’, trolley sleeve, secret passport pocket, fleece lined laptop and tablet sleeve.

Eco-Friendly – Made with Shore-Tex ocean bound plastic. Solgaard is a Certified B Corporation.

Cons : a bit heavy for carry capacity

Lo & Sons O.M.G.  

• Dimensions – 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 6″
• Volume – 25 L
• Price [2024] – $378 (look for sales!)

This bag (O.M.G – Overnight Medium Gym bag ) is well organized with a separate compartment for shoes (or gym clothes), pockets within pockets (great idea for security!) and padded compartment for your laptop.

Pros: trolley sleeve, elegant design, comfortable messenger strap, separate shoe/dirty clothing compartment

Cons: Pricey, The height of the bag makes a tight fit under airplane seats.

Best midweight personal item backpacks

My picks for a underseat backpack bag: a tie between the stylish Pacsafe Citysafe 17L and durable Tom Bihn Synik 22 . Both bags have lots of compartments that make accessing things mid-flight easy.

Pacsafe Citysafe 17 L

• Style : 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions -15.4″ x 10.6″ x 5.9″
• Weight -1.54 lbs. | .7 kgs.
• Volume – 17 L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON | Pacsafe

Pacsafe specializes in bags with security features. This bag has lockable zippers, slash proof straps, and RFID shielding. Despite the focus on security the bag is elegant and suitable for business or city travel.

Pros : security features, wide opening, trolley sleeve, front compartment with built in organizations

Cons : Shoulder straps are padded but lightly. Wish it had a place to attach a shoulder strap.

A similar bag, but without the security features, is the Baggallini Soho Backpack . I was truly torn between which bag I should recommend, as they’re both stylish and easy to carry. The Baggallini is a bit lighter and less expensive, so if you don’t need the security features you might want to try this bag. However the zip on the Baggallini is not as robust.

Tom Bihn Synik 22

• Style – 🎒backpack
• Dimensions – 16″ x 11.4″ x 9.4″ / 410 x 290 x 240 mm
• Weight – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 22L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ MacBook
• Price $$$ [2024] – $320

This is my go-to pack. The bag is well-made and very durable. The external pockets make organizing easy. I pack chargers, etc., in the chin pocket, and everything else I’ll need in flight in the other pockets. No need to pull out the whole bag to access anything.

Pros : 5 external pockets for ease of access, trolley sleeve, padded laptop sleeve, clamshell opening, adjustable straps, comes in various colors

Cons : price, weight, the trolley sleeve (luggage pass through sleeve) can be difficult to use depending on the handle size of your rolling luggage.

NOTE: the Synapse 19 is a simpler version of this bag, with no laptop compartment or clamshell opening. It still has the great organizational pockets but is much lighter.

Vera Bradley Lay Flat Convertible Backpack

• Dimensions 16.3″ x 10.2″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 2.85 lbs. | 1.29 kgs.
• Volume – 20L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON

This bag will appeal to Vera Bradley quilted fabric fans.

Pros : multiple interior pocket, opens flat for ease of packing. multiple carry options

Cons : No small, secure outside pocket for quick access to phones, etc. Fabric offers little structure.

Best personal item bags for camera carry

Camera bags offer different systems for accessing equipment. What bag you choose will depend on how YOU are comfortable working with your camera equipment. These three bags double as airline personal items, but there are lots of other great camera bags we recommend for travel.

Lowepro Photo Hatchback 16 L

• Style – 🎒📷 camera backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10.8″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 1.8 lbs. | .8 kg.
• Volume – 16 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 8″ tablet sleeve

I love this bag for nature traveling. The camera basket is accessible from the rear of the bag giving extra security. To access the camera while standing, you remove the shoulder straps and swing the bag down in front of you.

The top of the bag has enough room for an jacket, snacks, and other items making this a well-organized bag to carry on excursions.

Pros : inexpensive, durable, functional pockets and device sleeves.

Cons : Only fits a minimal camera setup.

Wandrd Prvke 21L

• Style – 🎒📷camera backpack
• Dimensions – 43 x 28 x 17 cm / 17 x 11 x 6.5 in
• Weight – 2.8 lbs. | 1.3 kg
• Volume – 21 L (25 L with the roll-top extended)
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ MacBook, separate tablet sleeve
• Price $$$ [2024] – $219 ($299 with photography bundle) see price on Wandrd | Amazon

Camera can be accessed from a discreet side pocket or by opening the bag fully.

Pros : well cushioned and ventilated back panel, water resistant, hidden passport pocket, luggage pass-through

Cons : price, especially as the photography bundle is an add-on

Disclaimer : I base my recommendation on the Wandrd 6L Sling which I really like. I am intrigued by the roomier Prvke but have not had the opportunity to try it. I like the slim profile and the potential for expansion offered by the roll top.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip

• Dimensions – 17.5″ x 10.5″ x 7.9″
• Weight – 3.4 lbs. | 1.54 kg
• Volume – 15 L
• Price $$ [2024]- $189 See on Amazon | Peak Design

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip comes in 2 sizes – 15L and 20L. This is the smaller size. Peak Design also offers the Everyday Backpack (latches instead of zips) in two sizes – 20L and 30L.

Camera is accessed from the either side of the bag. A continuous zipper allows the user to set up the zips as works best for them.

Pros : elegant design, cushioned handles on top and sides, internal dividers allow use to customize their setup.

Cons : price, weight for volume.

What to do about a Personal Item if you’re traveling on a very restrictive airline

Some budget airlines are eliminating the personal item altogether for passengers in coach. In this situation, I stash my minimal flight needs into a smaller bag which will fit inside our bigger bag. Once onboard, I slip the smaller bag into my seat pocket for the flight. Many bags will serve this purpose but a brightly colored bag is harder to leave behind in a seat pocket!

Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag – our favorite bag within a bag. This lightweight bag has zipped closures, and can be used at our destination as a shoulder bag, a camera bag, or whatever.

A large cosmetic bag may be perfect for your in-seat needs, and is quite inexpensive! Test the size to see if your gadgets, and EDC fit. Consider using a toiletry bag . Some have hooks that you can use to attach to your tray table and pockets for all your gear.

Look for seat back organizers . Some are easy to stow in your larger carry-on but can be pulled out for your seat pocket.

Tortuga Setout 19L packable backpack – made from ripstop nylon material, this pack folds into a tiny package, but has mesh pockets for water bottles and a zippered outside pocket. (8 oz., 5 x 11 x 17, $39)

How we tested the personal item bags

We reviewed the bags we recommend (or a variation from the brand) for carrying comfort, capacity, and durability, and style.

• Carrying Comfort: As a woman over 50 with back and shoulder issues having multiple carry options is important. Well-cushioned straps and a trolley sleeve were appreciated. The weight of the bag also came into play as heavier bags are more challenging to carry.
• Wallet, iPhone, iPad Mini, Kindle paperwhite, earbuds, charging cords in small cinch bag, sunglasses, medications, essential toiletries (toothbrush, lip balm, lotion, etc.), light sweater, water bottle, small snack, and [optional] clothing for one day in a compression cube
• Durability: Several of the bags have been in our travel rotation for years so durability is obvious. For those bags we tested only, the quality of the bag’s construction and the materials used helped us to determine durability. We confirmed our assessment by checking with other travelers who recommended the bag.
• Style: This is a personal preference.

I hope this A-list guide has helped you discover a personal item sized bag that’ll work for you. Do you have a favorite bag you reach for every trip? What determines what you carry?

This article contains referral links. Read our  DISCLOSURE .

TravelingTulls is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We are not provided with any products by Amazon but receive a small fee if you purchase an item through our link.

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

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3 thoughts on “ 15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update) ”

Lug bags found at Luglife. com are great travel bags. They are sturdy, well-made and reasonably priced. Highly recommend these bags.

“no laptop compartment” is listed as a con for the Daylite Plus, but it does have a separate patted laptop sleeve. Is that an error or is a laptop compartment something different?

Hi Daniel, I am traveling right now but will check whether my Daylite Plus has a padded sleeve. I don’t use a case for my laptop so prefer padding in the backpack. But of course a padded compartment adds bulk to a bag so there is a trade-off. Thanks for the comment!

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

Travel experts share top-tested carry-ons for every type of trip.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Away the carry-on.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Lightweight

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

A good carry-on suitcase should be easy to maneuver, spacious enough to hold everything you need and compact enough to fit in an airplane's overhead bin. Not to mention, it should be durable to last through many trips and stylish so you actually enjoy using it during your travels.

Away's carry-on suitcase is super popular for a reason. Besides looking chic with its hard-shell exterior that's available in a range of colors, it also has a spacious capacity, smooth maneuverability and smart design features that make it easy to pack and take on the go. For starters, it has two separate packing sides — one with compression straps. It also has a top handle, side handle and an underside grab handle that makes it easier to lift, whether you're dealing with the TSA conveyor belt, an overhead airline bin or baggage claim.

Despite being a hardside case, this one is lighter than many softside options. It also proved to be durable in our Lab tests, resisting both scuffs in our scratch tests and dents in our drop tests. Consumer testers and Lab analysts all loved using it while traveling. The only complaint was that the telescopic handle seemed a bit flimsy to some users, but otherwise, they had nothing but praise for this carry-on. One described it as "stylish and easy to roll," while another summarized her experience by saying, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin."

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Away's Carry-On Lives Up to The Hype

Dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Capacity: 39.8 L | Material : Polycarbonate (hardside) | Colors: 10 options

It's hard to find a good carry-on under $100, but this Amazon-brand suitcase is a bestseller with a spacious interior and smooth-rolling capabilities , despite its low cost . The hardside shell is made of ABS plastic, which is lightweight and less expensive than polycarbonate, though not quite as durable. It's also expandable and has interior compartments to keep you organized while packing.

The thing that impressed our consumer testers and Lab analysts the most was its wheel performance; a tester summarized it as "very easy to move" through our Lab's obstacle course. Its interior also held the entire load in our standardized packing test. The downsides: Testers said the telescopic handle wasn't as sturdy as other carry-ons and the shell showed marks during our Lab's scratch tests. That being said, it held up to damage fairly well during durability drop tests.

RELATED: The Best Luggage to Buy on Amazon

D imensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Capacity: 23 L | Material: ABS plastic (hardside) | Colors: 4 options

Not only is this carry-on a great price for under $200, it's also one of the top-performing suitcases in our tests. The hardside exterior is made of polypropylene — which is known for being exceptionally lightweight — and the suitcase as a whole weighs less than other carry-ons we recommend. It's also spacious; in fact, it aced our Lab's packing tests and has a 1-inch expandable zipper to increase packing capacity if you need it.

The trade-off for it being so light is that the material wasn't as scratch-resistant as polycarbonate options, and the handle felt a bit loose in both Lab and consumer tests. That being said, it was still fairly durable and testers enjoyed using it during our obstacle course; they gave feedback like "the wheels moved really well," "very smooth rolling" and "easy to pick up."

D imensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Capacity: 34 L | Material: Polypropylene (hardside) | Colors: 14 options

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable

Ideal for frequent flyers, Travelpro's softside suitcase is splurge-worthy thanks to its durability and convenience. It especially stood out in our evaluations for its nylon fabric, which aced our abrasion and drop tests with no signs of wear. Plus, its zippers kept contents dry in our water resistance test. We also like that it uses sturdy components like leather trim and chrome zippers.

It's built to keep you organized on the go, and one tester shared, "I love the amount of pockets!" On the inside, it fit every item in our packing test with room to spare, while its compartments made filling it a breeze. Travel testers loved the exterior compartments, which made it easy to access their essentials, and it even has a USB port that you can use if you have a power bank on hand. Some testers thought it looked old-fashioned (especially compared to the modern aesthetic of hardside cases), and there were mixed reviews on maneuverability. Some said they had issues steering it. But on the plus side, its contoured telescopic handle earned high marks for comfort and sturdiness.

D imensions: 9" x 14.5" x 23.5" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Capacity: 46 L | Material: Nylon (softside) | Colors: 6 options

Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Spinner

With a unique compression system unlike any other mechanism we've reviewed, this carry-on lets you pack more than you can possibly imagine by looking at it. Unlike most cases that use a zipper expansion, this one has a button inside that raises the edges. Once you fill it and zip it closed, you compress the sides by pushing it down. Travel testers gave it perfect scores and one told us, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." They also noted that it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.

The nylon fabric proved to be durable in Lab tests, holding up to both abrasion and drop tests. Though the overall case weighed more than others when it was empty, the extra couple of pounds is a fair trade-off for the built-in features. It even has a garment folder that can hold dresses or suits on the go. Beyond that, it was comfortable to roll and easy to maneuver on the go.

D imensions: 21" x 15" x 9" | Weight: 9.9 lbs | Capacity: 37 L | Material: Ballistic nylon (softside) | Colors: 4 options

DELSEY PARIS Helium DLX Softside Spinner Carry On

If you're looking for softside luggage but don't want to spend several hundred dollars, this suitcase offers a great value. It's made of polyester fabric and has a no-frills yet roomy interior. It also expands if you need more packing space. And though polyester isn't quite as durable as nylon, Delsey's fabric has held up well in our Lab's durability tests.

Other perks: It has a removable lining that's machine washable for easy cleaning, and it comes with a removable organizing pouch that snaps into place inside the bag. Our analysts and testers also appreciated the bag's easy-access external sections, which are more typically found in softside luggage than hardside alternatives. Its wheels weren't as smooth as others, and it doesn't look as luxurious as pricier picks, but overall it earned good scores during use.

D imensions: 14.25" x 10" x 23" | Weight: 6.7 lbs | Capacity: 23 L | Material: Polyester and nylon (softside) | Colors: 2 options

Calpak Ambeur Rolling Spinner Carry-On

Sleek in both appearance and maneuverability, Calpak has a metallic appearance that stands out from other hardside carry-ons. It also earned high marks from our consumer testers for its smooth wheel performance, sturdy padded handle and easy maneuverability through our obstacle course. When comparing it to dozens of other models, one tester said it had the "smoothest handle by far and didn't feel wobbly. I really liked the shape and how seamless it felt." Nearly every tester said they wanted to keep it for themselves.

The hard side exterior is a composite with ABS plastic underneath and a polycarbonate coating. While the coating helps with durability, it still didn't resist scratches as well as the 100% polycarbonate bags in our tests. Still, it held up to our drop tests without denting and impressed Lab experts with its roomy interior that was easy to pack. The interior also has a combination of zippered storage, elastic pockets and compression straps to help you stay organized.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Calpak's Luggage Combines Fashion and Function

D imensions: 21.5" x 14" x 9" | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Capacity: 39.2 L | Material: Polycarbonate/ABS plastic blend (hardside) | Colors: 5 options

Béis The Carry-On Roller

This brand from actress Shay Mitchell has gone viral on TikTok thanks to its stunning monochromatic designs and its unique features , including a built-in weight indicator that lets you know if your luggage is over 50 pounds. It also has an extendable strap in the front that lets you attach a smaller bag, helping to free up your hands while traveling.

When our analysts put it to the test in the Lab, its polyester shell resisted dents and damage after being repeatedly dropped. It did, however, show some scuffs around the edges, which testers also noticed in real-life settings. That being said, it's a great option for lifestyle travelers who are looking for a stylish option with smart features.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on The Viral Béis Luggage

D imensions: 15.7in" x 22.8" x 9.8" | Weight: 8.36 lbs | Capacity: 49 L | Material: Polycarbonate | Colors: 10 options

Monos Carry-On

If you're looking for a bag that's built to last and won't go out of style, consider this simple yet not-so-basic carry-on from Monos. It's made with a durable polycarbonate shell that withstood damage during our Lab's drop tests and real-world travels, despite some scuffing. It also held an impressive amount in both Lab packing tests and at-home tests.

Besides its durability and packing features, this suitcase stood out for being smooth and easy to use. The zippers opened and closed easily, while the wheels glided seamlessly during travel tests. One tester said that it didn't even feel like she was pulling it, but rather, it was rolling alongside her.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Monos Luggage is Absolutely Worth the Investment

D imensions: 22" × 14" × 9" | Weight: 7 lbs | Capacity: 39.9 L | Material: Polycarbonate (hardside) | Colors: 11 options

How we test carry-on luggage

The Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles Lab regularly tests luggage by following standardized test methods and using specialized equipment. In recent years, we've tested over 50 carry-on models , considering dimensions, packability, durability and more.

In addition to our Lab tests, we set up an obstacle course for users to try out each suitcase and share their thoughts on aspects like the handles, wheels, maneuverability and appearance. Finally, we have testers bring the luggage with them for feedback from their real-world travels. Here's an in-depth look at how we choose which luggage to recommend:

✔️ Size and weight : We weigh each piece of luggage when it's empty then place the luggage in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to check whether it complies with the standard U.S. airline dimension restrictions for carry-on luggage.

✔️ Packing capabilities : We pack each piece of luggage (pictured) using a standard load with real items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and more. During this process, we rate the ease of opening and closing the zippers, the ease of accessing the compartments and how much of our standard load actually fits inside.

We also assess important components like the wheels, the telescopic handle and any special features. When the bag is fully packed, we practice rolling it over different surfaces, such as tile, carpet and hardwood, and lifting it on and off countertops to see how the handles feel during use.

✔️ Durability when dropped : We fill the luggage with a standard weight, load it onto our drop tester (pictured) and release the luggage from a set 3-foot height. The test is repeated in various directions, and we note any damages and imperfections that result.

✔️ Water resistance : To measure how well the luggage protects its contents from water, we measure how much water seeps through the zipper into an absorbent material underneath. The goal is to have the zippers fully block water from entering the inside of the luggage.

✔️ Abrasion resistance: We cut swatches of fabric from softside suitcases and load them into our abrasion machine (pictured), which rubs the fabric over an abrasive material 15,000 times before we grade it for signs of wear.

✔️ Scratch resistance : We drag a wire over hardside luggage material and then visually assess any scuffs and marks left behind.

✔️ Obstacle course: We fill each suitcase with weight to mimic a travel load and then set up a standard course to cover a variety of surfaces and obstacles, such as navigating twists and turns, lifting over curbs, transitioning to different flooring and more. Consumer testers then rate the luggage on factors like ease of using the handles, comfort when pulling the carry-on, sturdiness, wheel performance and maneuverability, among other subjective aspects.

✔️ Travel testing: Testers are assigned a carry-on to use during their trips. Upon their return, they fill out an in-depth survey where they provide feedback on aspects like the handles, wheels, comfort, organization, style and more. They also answer a series of open-ended questions, letting us know what they packed, what they liked and anything they disliked during their experience.

What size is considered "carry-on" luggage?

The most common size restriction for carry-on luggage in the U.S. is 22" x 14" x 9" . However, each airline has its own size restrictions and international airlines tend to have more stringent requirements. When you shop, make sure that the dimensions include handles and wheels, not just the suitcase itself.

Is hard or soft luggage better for a carry-on?

We've had top performers (and poor performers) in both categories, but each material has its advantages that can help you make a decision when you shop. Here's what to keep in mind for each:

Hardside luggage: These suitcases have become more popular because they're protective, good-looking and surprisingly lightweight. But not all hard-shell materials are the same. Here are the most common ones you'll see when shopping:

• Polycarbonate : This is the most popular hardside option because it's lighter than metals (like aluminum) yet more durable than plastic. It has high impact resistance — i.e., it's durable when dropped — but it has lower scratch resistance, though sometimes the manufacturer will apply a special coating to prevent scuffs.
• ABS: Most low-cost hardside luggage is made of this plastic material. It's more affordable and more lightweight than polycarbonate, but it's less durable and more prone to scratches.
• Polycarbonate/ABS composites : You can also find suitcases that combine these materials, typically using ABS plastic underneath with a polycarbonate coating. This blend gives you some benefits of both, but it still isn't as durable as 100% polycarbonate.

Softside luggage: Fabric-based luggage is often easier to stuff into tight spaces and fill with more items. It also doesn't show scratches, though certain fabrics can abrade more easily over time, so you still need to shop with care:

• Nylon: The most common material for soft fabric cases, this synthetic fiber is durable and can withstand abrasion, making it ideal for frequent flyers who are rough on their bags.
• Polyester : This material is also a synthetic fiber, but it's typically less expensive and more lightweight than nylon. The downside is that it's also less durable, though we've seen some polyester suitcases with good abrasion resistance.

More carry-on luggage shopping tips

Besides considering the dimensions and material, here are other factors that can help you choose your best carry-on luggage:

✔️ Wheels : We recommend checking for four 360-degree wheels, as these consistently have the top maneuverability scores in our tests. If you're deciding between two and four wheels, here are the main differences to keep in mind:

• Four wheels give you the flexibility to push it, pull it and move it in all directions, yet you can still tilt it back and use it like two-wheeled luggage if you prefer.
• T wo wheels roll only when you tilt the luggage, and you can only pull it back and forth, instead of side to side.

✔️ Telescopic handle : Check how easy it is to open and close, whether it can be adjusted to different heights and how comfortable it is to grip. Some handles even have extra padding for comfort. It may not seem like a big deal when the luggage is empty, but having a comfortable and sturdy handle makes a big difference once the suitcase is filled with heavy contents. Also, be sure to use care when opening and closing the handle; constant jerking can lead to damage over time.

✔️ Side handles : If you're going to be lifting and lowering the luggage from high surfaces, make sure the top and side handles are easy to grip.

✔️ Compartments: Consider whether you prefer a large open space that can hold a big load or smaller compartments that can help keep you organized. Carry-on interiors vary greatly among different models, and there are plenty of options to choose from, depending on your needs. You can also opt for a carry-on with exterior pockets if you need easy access to essentials when you're traveling.

✔️ Zippers: Zippers may not be top of mind when you shop, but it's important to consider both their water resistance and how easy they are to open and close. Some zippers can be finicky, so make sure to check before you commit to buying the bag by zipping and unzipping the bag multiple times. If you have water on hand, try placing a drop on the zipper to see if it seeps through or beads up.

✔️ Weight: A lightweight carry-on suitcase should weigh less than 8 pounds when empty.

✔️ Charging capabilities: Some styles come with USB ports and the option to add a battery to charge devices on the go; some even come with a battery included. Just make sure the battery meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations .

✔️ Warranties and returns: Warranties typically only cover manufacturer defects, which can be difficult to prove. If you're worried about committing to a purchase, instead of focusing on a warranty, check to see if there's an any-reason return policy or a trial period. This is an especially helpful option if you're shopping online without seeing and trying out the suitcase in person.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy & operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she oversees a wide range of travel content, including luggage. She has been evaluating suitcases for over a decade and has personally tried out many of these carry-ons in her own travels, including flights, road trips, train rides and more. Lexie also manages Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards .

Prior updates to this article were written by Amanda Constantine , home and apparel reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Amanda regularly tests and writes about luggage, including suitcase shopping guides and in-depth brand reviews.

Carry-on luggage testing has also been performed by Good Housekeeping Institute analysts Emma Seymour , Grace Wu and Rachael Chen .

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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16 Personal-Item Carry-on Bags For Stylish and Hassle-Free Flying

There's nothing like going on a quick weekend trip to explore other cities or taking the time to visit friends and family you haven't seen in a while. However, the costs of flying are skyrocketing, suitcases are getting lost, and airlines are charging a pretty penny for carry-on luggage and checked bags. The hunt for cheap flights and convenient travel is an ongoing challenge. One way to keep travel costs as low as possible: utilizing the personal-item carry-on bag. The personal-item bag is a must when you fly a no-frills airline such as Frontier or Spirit Airlines, or buy a basic economy seat for domestic travel, since it's the only bag you can bring that's free of extra costs. These functional bags also make long-haul flights easier with convenient access to all your necessities.

What Qualifies as a Personal-Item Bag?

A personal-item bag can be a functional backpack, a stylish tote bag , a spacious diaper bag , a laptop or work bag , or anything small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Each airline has different qualifications on sizes and proportions, so we've listed a few common ones below:

• Spirit: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Frontier: 8" depth x 18" width x 14" height
• United: 9" depth x 10" width x 17" height
• Delta: 9" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• American: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Southwest: 8.5" depth x 13.5" width x 18.5" height
• JetBlue: 8" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• Allegiant: 7" depth x 15" width x 16" height

A quality personal-item bag has enough room for all your travel essentials and necessities while being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you according to the airline guidelines. Going on a quick weekend getaway? Your go-to personal-item bag should fit all your vacation must haves, including a few outfits, an extra pair of shoes, makeup, skin-care, and toiletries, necessary chargers and cords, and maybe even a flat iron and a reusable water bottle. There are several stylish and quality personal-item bags on the market that take all this into consideration, so you can travel smarter. Ahead, we curated the best personal item bags for planes, including tried and tested picks from our editors, like the Béis Mini Weekender Bag .

Ready to hit "buy" on a new one for yourself? Ahead, a selection of the best personal carry-on bags for flying.

The Best Personal-Item Carry-on Bag

Béis The Mini Weekender ($98)

The Béis The Mini Weekender is the smaller version of the bestselling Weekender Bag , which is also an editor favorite. It can be used as an everyday tote, but it's also perfect for overnight trips or as a personal item on flights. "It is ideal for any traveler, whether you're a frequent flyer or someone who goes on the occasional vacation. . . . The bag fits the right amount of clothing and necessities for a three-day trip, including a few extra outfits if you pack smart," our editor says.

This personal item bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; a bottom compartment for shoes, hair tools, and toiletries; and a trolley pass-through sleeve. Plus, the inside has a large zip pocket and two small slip pockets. Our editor points out, "another clever feature is the expandable, clamshell-like zip-top opening of the top compartment. The bag opens up quite wide, so you can easily see and access your stuff and take out your electronics . . . for security." It has a top handle and a padded longer strap. It comes in eight colors, including beige, black, navy, gray, olive green, maple brown, pink, and slate light blue. Read our in-depth review of the Beis Mini Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 16" height x 16" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag That's Foldable

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag ($14)

The Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is a foldable and affordable travel option that comes in a ton of different colors and prints. It has two top-handle carrying straps, a detachable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve, and an external zipper pocket. The bag is made from a thick waterproof material that can hold its shape. Plus, it's a bestseller on Amazon.

Dimensions: 13" height x 18" width x 6.3" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Bag

Paravel Weekender Bag ($295)

The Paravel Weekender Bag is an editor-backed pick, with her stating that "even though the bag itself appears compact, it actually has a ton of space inside. I can fit electronics, multiple cosmetic bags, and any other extras I want readily available with plenty of space to spare." It can fit around two days worth of clothes (three if you're smart about packing), toiletries, and a 15-inch laptop. Paravel's Weekender Bag has a wide shoulder strap that lets you carry it with ease and a trolley sleeve that lets you carry it on top of your rolling luggage. It has a secure zip-top closure and several slip and zippered pockets on the inside.

The eco-friendly weekender is made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. Plus, it's made with an ecocraft canvas that is spill proof and durable. You can personalize it with a monogram. Read our in-depth review of the Paravel Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 15" height x 15" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag Travel Backpack

Lubardy Travel Backpack ($30, originally $32)

If you're looking for a durable backpack you can use for weekend trips, the Lubardy Travel Backpack is a great option and comes with three packing cubes. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit a few outfits and a pair of shoes. Plus, it has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket for toiletries and laundry, and a side pocket for a water bottle or an umbrella. The zippers are sturdy and reinforced, so you can keep squishing items in without the bag exploding. The waterproof and durable backpack comes in seven colors.

Dimensions: 20" height x 13" width x 8"depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag ($40)

The Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag is a stylish, easy-to-carry weekender bag that comes with its own shoe compartment. It is made from a durable canvas fabric with faux-leather accents and comes equipped with six pockets and one main compartment. Plus, you get two additional toiletry bags to keep things organized. It can fit up to two to four days' worth of essentials. The affordable weekender bag comes in seven colors as well.

Dimensions: 13" height x 19" width x 9.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag ($180)

Ideal for those who prioritize organization and efficient packing, the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag has a unique and functional design that opens like a suitcase. This opens down the middle like a suitcase, so you can have each side lay flat for easy packing. The bento-inspired bag has plenty of exterior and interior compartments to keep things organized, including a tech pouch, a padded laptop sleeve, a toiletry pouch, a shoe bag, two internal compartments, an external wallet/phone pocket, and an external pocket for water bottles. Plus, it features an adjustable side strap, top handles, a convertible-trolley sleeve pocket, and a lightweight construction. This bag comes in three contemporary colorways, and is made from weather-resistant nylon and LWG-certified leather.

Our editors says that she loves that it has two security-friendly pockets that can be accessed from the top so she doesn't have to fumble through TSA. "After packing my computer, tablet, chargers, and headphones, I was able to include two changes of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes all inside the bag, which is pretty impressive for the size," she says. Check our her review of the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag here .

Dimensions: 10" height x 17" width x 8" depth

Best Stylish Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

If you're in the market for something durable, sleek, and glam, Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage is designed to fit underneath most airplane seats. Don't believe us? We put it to the test in this Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage review . One of our editors says, "it's quite literally a mini version of a carry-on bag; it has all the convenience of a stylish and functional suitcase, just sliced in half. . . . Although it may look small, it can fit a good amount of stuff for a three or four-day weekend."

The best part of this bag is that it's equipped with 360-degree spinner wheels and a collapsible luggage handle, so you can get through security and to your gate without having to carry the actual weight of your bag. This mini carry-on bag is a dream for organization; it opens upright and has a divider with multiple pockets. It comes in gold, rose gold, silver, copper, and black.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 9" depth

Best Durable Personal-Item Travel Backpack

Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack 25L ($158)

If you're looking for something durable, the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack is an editor-backed pick that's not only personal-item approved, but also hiking approved. It's made from a water-repellent fabric, so spills, scuffs, and weather won't be an issue. The versatile backpack has plenty of storage space with pockets galore, including exterior pockets for water bottles and umbrellas, interior pockets that can help keep dirty and clean clothes separate, adjustable exterior straps that can hold a jacket or a yoga mat, a padded laptop sleeve, and it even has a trolley sleeve. The drawstring opening is ideal for easy access, but it's kept secure with the buckle closures.

One editor put it to the test and says, "My typical backpack load includes two books, a small notebook, a laptop, a bag of chargers, a case of toiletries, a pouch of miscellaneous personal-care items, a water bottle, an extra jacket, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, and a spare wallet. And because the main compartment closes with a drawstring, you can really push the limits of the amount of stuff you can cram in. . . . After getting caught in a surprise downpour while on top of a mountain in Brasov, Romania, I was soaked — but everything inside my backpack was perfectly dry." Read her in-depth review of the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack for more.

Dimensions: 14.2" height x 20.1" width x 6.1" depth

Best Personal-Item Duffle Bag

Béis The Commuter Duffle ($138)

Although we're huge fans of the bestselling Béis Mini Weekender Bag, its Commuter Duffle is a worthy competitor. It has a capacity of 24.2 liters, and comes in two classic colors, black and beige. The duffle bag is designed for the busybody who's constantly on the go; it has two slip pockets on either side for water bottles or umbrellas and a zipper pocket in the front. Plus, the interior has the perfect blend of spaciousness and organization. Not only is there a padded laptop pocket, but also four elastic pockets (two of which are mesh), as well as a zipper pocket.

This bag maintains is sleek silhouette and crisp look with five metal feet that let it stand on its own. It's made from a water resistant nylon, but it has vegan leather top handles and a padded leather adjustable strap.

One of our editors put it to test during a weekend trip to Sedona and says that she was able to fit "seven outfits, two pairs of shoes, my toiletry bag, portable steamer, and more." Beyond the ample packing space, she loves how sleek and stylish the bag looks and that it's lightweight. Read more about The Commuter Duffle in our review of the Béis Commuter collection .

Dimensions: 12" height x 21.5" width x 9" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage ($53)

The TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage is perfect for the traveler on the go. For starters, unlike most weekender bags and duffles, this one has wheels. This bag has a USB port that lets you attach a power bank to it, so you can charge your phone and laptop in-flight or at the gate. It's spacious on the inside with plenty of pockets and sections to stay organized. You can carry this with its top handle, wear it like a backpack, or roll it. This under-seat carry-on comes in a few other colors, like navy blue, brown, and purple.

Dimensions: 15" height x 14" wide x 8.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Travel Backpack For Organization

Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack ($120)

The Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack from Target looks and acts like a backpack from the outside, but functions like a suitcase internally. It has a zip-open, flat-lay design that opens up like a carry-on, so you can pack everything neatly. The backpack has three mesh compartments for organizing your clothes, a laptop compartment that's padded, and plenty of additional pockets to store all your other necessities. This is perfect for anyone who wants more balanced support for their back and shoulders, rather than relying on a crossbody or top handle design. It also has a useful trolley strap that doubles as an external pocket when not in use. It's made with a durable, water-resistant fabric as well.

Dimensions: 21" height x 14" width x 8.75" depth.

Best Personal-Item Bag With a Clamshell Opening

Away Overnight Bag ($225)

Away's The Overnight Bag is a water-resistant, durable, sleek option that's perfect for fitting a few outfits, toiletries, and your tech. It has a 15-inch laptop pocket, several interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized, and a useful trolley sleeve. It has an easy-access clamshell opening and a detachable shoulder strap as well. It comes in five colors, and you even can personalize it.

Dimensions: 11" height x 17.7" width x 9" depth

You can also consider getting the The Weekender Bag ($245) if you need more space; however, its dimensions may exceed some airline's requirements. The larger option has a 9.4-inch depth, 20.9-inch width, and 11.8-inch height.

The Overnight Bag can fit around two to three outfits with a 28 liter capacity, whereas The Weekender Bag can fit three to four outfits with a 38 liter capacity.

Best Expandable Personal-Item Bag

Dagne Dover 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag ($215)

Dagne Dover's 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag is soft and durable, perfect for squishing under a seat. It may look compact at first, but it has an expandable design that can fit several outfits, slim shoes and hair tools, and more. It comes with plenty of accessories and compartments that will keep your travel essentials organized, like a laptop sleeve, a shoe/laundry bag, and a removable mesh pouch for your chargers and cords. There's even an easy-access pocket perfect for your phone, passport, or boarding pass. Plus, it has a crossbody strap, top handles, and two side pockets that are perfect for water bottles and shoes. It comes in four colors, including gray, muted purple, camel tan, and a dark moss green.

Dimensions: 10.5" height x 17" width x 8.5" depth

Best Leather Personal-Item Bag

Cuyana Leather Weekender ($548)

Cuyana's Leather Weekender is perfect for those who need to keep things compartmentalized. It's equipped with three compartments, including two external zip compartments that can fit up to a 16-inch laptop. The main compartment has two large slip pockets that are great for storing shoes, hair tools, and other necessities. The bag even has a trolley sleeve, so you can easily secure it to your carry-on bag. Carry this in your hand, over your shoulder, or as a crossbody with its adjustable removable strap. It comes in a neutral brown shade and black.

Besides its functionalities, this gorgeous weekender bag is crafted from Italian leather, making it a stylish and investment-worthy piece that screams quiet luxury.

Dimensions: 14.5" height x 22.5" width x 7" depth

Looking for something smaller? You can get the Overnight Bag, which is the same silhouette with a 5.5-inch depth, a 19-inch width, and a 13-inch height.

Best Hardshell Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage doesn't compromise on style or functionality. This personal-item carry-on bag has a polycarbonate hard-shell exterior that can withstand scuffs and bumps. The cool thing with this bag is that it opens upright, so you'll be able to easily see and access everything in your bag. It has an interior divider with pockets and compression straps to keep your over-packed bag organized. It has a TSA-accepted lock, a collapsible luggage handle, and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a smooth, upright roll. Choose between a four colors. And, yes, this small rolling bag fits beneath most airline seats.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 8.5" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Tote Bag

Paravel Medium Cabana Tote ($175)

Embrace vacation mode with this stylish and fun Paravel Medium Cabana Tote. It's made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. The bag is made with an ecocraft canvas that's spill-proof and quite durable. It has several slip and zippered pockets on the inside for plenty of organization. It has a secure zip-top closure, top handles, and an adjustable crossbody strap. It has a sturdy base that will keep it upright, so you can easily access your must haves. Plus, you can personalize it with a monogram, and it comes in four colors.

If you need something bigger, the larger cabana tote ($185) is more roomy, with a 23.75-inch length, 14.5-inch width, and 7.5-inch depth.

Dimensions: 12" height x 18" width x 7.5" depth

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.

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Here's exactly how much time you need at the airport prior to a..., here’s exactly how much time you need at the airport prior to a flight.

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Deciding when to get to the airport for a flight is always a gamble.

What if there’s a delay? Will the security lines be long? What if it takes a while to check bags?

Airports and airlines tend to typically suggest arriving two hours before departure on domestic flights and three hours on international flights.

However, these standard guidelines don’t always apply — especially during the summer travel rush.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened a staggering 2.99 million passengers at airports across the country on Sunday, June 23 — the highest number in a single day. Since the agency said that seven of the top 10 busiest travel days ever have occurred in the past month, it’s more important now than ever to know how much time to allot for the airport.

Travel experts told the Wall Street Journal that there are certain factors that could allow a passenger to add or reduce the amount of time needed at the airport prior to a flight. They noted, however, that these are just rough estimates and not an exact science.

Baseline arrival: 90 minutes prior to flight

The baseline rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before your departure time.

According to the TSA, about 99% of travelers spend just 30 minutes or less waiting in the standard screening lines at airport security checkpoints.

If you’re traveling with just a carry-on, a bare minimum 90-minute buffer before your flight is all that’s needed, including the amount of time it takes to walk to the gate.

Major airports: Add 20 minutes

If you’re flying out of a major airport, you’re going to want to plan to get there a little earlier.

Jen Campbell Boles, founder of Explore More Family Travel, a North Carolina-based travel agency, told WSJ that the top factor for determining buffer time is the airport size.

With larger terminals and more people traveling through, it’s almost guaranteed that there will be longer lines as well as longer walks to the gate.

For example, at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, some gates are about a 15-minute walk from security.

Peak travel time: Add 30 minutes

Mornings and late afternoons are prime time at the airport, as well as on weekends.

Add about a half hour to your arrival time in order to account for long lines. And if you’re planning on getting food at the airport, expect to wait in line for that as well.

Checking bags or traveling with pet: Add 30-45 minutes

Even if you tag your bag on your own, it can take quite some time to check it.

There are multiple parts of the process that could potentially require you to spend time waiting, such as printing out luggage tags and lines to weigh bags and drop them off.

Many airlines also require bags to be checked 30 to 45 minutes prior to departure, so it’s important to keep that in mind as well.

Henley Vazquez, co-founder of the travel agency Fora, advised to budget even more time if you’re checking oversized or unusual items, such as skis or golf clubs. Pets also require more time, since most airlines have to approve your pet to fly, which requires assistance from an agent.

Mobile boarding pass: Subtract 20 minutes

If you already have your mobile boarding pass, your preparation will save you about 20 minutes at the airport.

Be sure to check in for your flight before leaving for the airport and download your boarding pass (or print it at home) to skip any wait there may be for a check-in kiosk.

Most airlines allow you to check in 24 hours in advance.

International flights: Add 30 minutes

Traveling internationally is a longer process than traveling domestically: a valid passport and travel documents are required, deadlines for checked luggage are earlier, you have to wait for customs, and flights typically board earlier.

TSA Pre-Check or Clear: Subtract 20 minutes

According to a spokesperson for TSA, 99% of people with TSA PreCheck wait just 10 minutes or less to go through security.

This saves time on security itself since you don’t have to remove your shoes or remove electronics from your bag.

But not all airports have Clear or specific Pre-Check lanes, and some advisers warn that these services don’t save as much time as they once did since so many people have it these days.

Young kids: Add 60 minutes

Small children tend to take up more time everywhere, but especially with air travel.

Having to go through separate metal detectors is a process in itself — and don’t forget to account for baby food, breast milk or formula in excess of liquid limits if necessary, since those need to be screened separately.

Wheelchair: Add 90 minutes

If you need to get a wheelchair to navigate the airport, it’s going to take a lot longer.

Lauren Doyle, president of the Travel Mechanic, a North Carolina-based agency, said, “You’re relying on someone else.”

Also be sure to reserve the wheelchair in advance with the airline.

Parking and rental cars: Add 20 minutes

Dealing with a rental car is never an easy feat — though travel advisers told the WSJ that it’s easier these days than it used to be.

However, the main issue these days is the distance between the rental agency and the terminal.

Caroline Quinn, a travel specialist with the luxury travel agency Black Tomato, said that the car drop-off could be far away at some airports.

If you’re parking on your own, be prepared to deal with crowded lots and garages. If possible, reserve your spot in advance or opt for a more remote or overflow lot.

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