What Size Of Carry On Should I Buy?

A guide to airline carry-on regulations

Choosing the correct carry on size can be tricky because each airline sets their own carry on size restrictions. Going In Style recommends thinking about whether you spend more time traveling domestically or international. International carry on requirements are generally smaller.

HOW LARGE CAN MY CARRY-ON SUITCASE BE?

Carry-On sizes can be a bit confusing. Airline carry-on restrictions vary from airline to airline as well as from airplane to airplane. For accurate information please contact the airline you are flying with for their baggage limitations in advance. Carry On size can even vary depending on whether you are traveling International or Domestic within the same airline. 

A general guideline you can use for a maximum size carry-on bag is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). A standard size that fits this requirement is, 22 x 14 x 9”. Anything larger should be checked. If you have a bag that is an unusual shape but still within the total number of inches, you may find it being rejected. Also keep in mind the limitations are going to be different for international flights.

Airlines have restrictions on the number of pieces you can carry-on and some will even limit the weight of the bags. Don’t forget, for up to date accurate information contact your airlines. Below are links to luggage information for each airline.

One of Going In Style's favorite carry on luggage brands is Briggs & Riley Carry On Suitcases. Briggs & Riley carry on luggage comes is super durable and comes with a Briggs & Riley lifetime guarantee. 

TIP: When purchasing carry on luggage in store, Going In Style recommends bringing along a tape measure. Measure the luggage to make sure it actually fits withing the size of carry on regulations including the wheels. Sometimes luggage on sale or discounted carry ons are discounted because they don't quite meet airline carry on sizing regulations. You don't want to buy a brand new carry on luggage and then be charged for an oversize carry on once you get to the airport. 

LINKS TO AIRLINE LUGGAGE INFORMATION

Domestic

International

CARRY-ON BAG DIMENSIONS BY AIRLINE

Alaska Airline Carry-On Baggage Requirements

Carry on Bag Dimensions 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches / 56 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm including wheels and handles.

Personal Item such as purse or briefcase

Note: Alaska Airline changed to these dimensions as of June, 4, 2018

American Airline Carry On Baggage Requirements

Carry on Bag Dimensions 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches / 56 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm including wheels and handles.

Personal Item Dimensions 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches / 45 cm x 35 cm x 20cm

Delta Airline Carry-On Baggage Requirements

Carry on Bag Dimensions 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches / 56 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm including wheels and handles.

Personal items that are approved are 1 purse, briefcase, camera bag, diaper bag, or laptop computer.

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On Baggage Requirements

Carry On Bag Dimensions maximum outside dimensions of 45 linear inches including wheels and handles and fit in the overhead bin.

Personal Item such as purse, daypack, backpack, briefcase, shopping bag, laptop computer or diaper bag.

United Airline Carry-On Baggage Requirements

Carry On Bag Dimensions 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches / 56 cm x 35 cm x 22 cm including wheels and handles.

Personal Item Dimensions 17 inches x 10 inches x 9 inches / 43 cm x 25 cm x 10cm (If you are flying Basic Economy ticket, your personal item will be the only item you can bring on board).

Virgin America Carry-On Baggage Requirements

Carry On Bag Dimensions maximum outside linear dimensions of 51 inches including wheels and handles and fit in the overhead bin.

Personal Item such as purse, daypack, backpack, briefcase, shopping bag, laptop computer or diaper bag.