For US domestic flights, a carry-on of 22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles fits most major airlines. International and budget airlines are often stricter, commonly around 55 x 40 x 20 cm, and many set a weight limit of 7 to 10 kg. Choose the lightest bag that fits, pick hardside for protection or softside for flexibility and outer pockets, and check your airline's exact limits before you fly.
A good carry-on lets you skip checked-bag fees and baggage claim. A bad one gets stopped at the gate. Here is how to choose one that fits and lasts.
Start with size
Airlines measure the total outside dimensions, including wheels and handles.
| Where you fly | Typical carry-on limit |
|---|---|
| US major airlines | 22 x 14 x 9 in (56 x 36 x 23 cm) |
| Many international airlines | Around 55 x 40 x 20 to 23 cm |
| Budget airlines | Often smaller, sometimes only a personal item is free |
Limits vary by airline and fare type, so check the airline’s website before you fly. If you fly a mix of airlines, choose a bag that fits the strictest one you use regularly.
Weight matters more than you think
Many international and budget airlines weigh carry-ons, often with a limit of 7 to 10 kg. A suitcase that weighs 3.5 kg empty leaves far less room for your things than one that weighs 2.2 kg. Check the empty weight on the spec sheet.
Hardside or softside?
| Hardside | Softside | |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Better for fragile items | Less rigid |
| Weather | Resists rain | Can soak through unless coated |
| Flexibility | Fixed shape | Squeezes into tight bins |
| Pockets | Usually internal only | Outer pockets for quick access |
| Scuffs | Shows scratches (textured finishes hide them) | Hides wear |
Polycarbonate is the most common hardside material: light and impact-resistant. Ballistic or high-denier nylon is the most durable softside fabric.
Spinner or two-wheel?
- Four-wheel spinners roll upright beside you and glide down airplane aisles, but the wheels take up packing space and can snap on rough ground.
- Two-wheel rollers use recessed wheels that are more robust on cobblestones and curbs and leave more interior space.
Features worth paying for
- A sturdy telescoping handle with little wobble.
- Quality wheels, ideally replaceable.
- A good warranty, since luggage takes a beating.
- Compression straps or a compression system inside.
- TSA-accepted locks if you want to lock your bag.
- Expansion zipper, but remember an expanded bag may no longer fit carry-on limits.
Features to skip
Built-in batteries and USB ports add weight, and many airlines require removable batteries in carry-on bags anyway. A separate power bank is more flexible.
Personal item
Most airlines also allow a personal item that fits under the seat, such as a backpack or tote. Sizes vary widely, so check this too if you plan to bring both.
Common questions
What size is a standard carry-on?
In the US, 22 x 14 x 9 inches (about 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles, is accepted by most major airlines. Many international and low-cost airlines use smaller limits, often around 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
Do wheels and handles count in carry-on size?
Yes. Airlines measure the bag's total outside dimensions, including wheels, handles and any expanded section.
Is hardside or softside luggage better for carry-on?
Hardside protects fragile items and resists rain, while softside flexes to fit tight bins and usually has outer pockets. Both work well; choose by what you pack.
Do carry-on bags have weight limits?
Many US airlines don't weigh carry-ons, but many international and budget airlines do, often allowing 7 to 10 kg. A lighter empty bag leaves more of that allowance for your things.