Finding the Perfect Carry-On Bag Size for Your Upcoming Flight
One of the most common questions travelers have before boarding a plane is “What size bag can I bring on as a carry-on?” With more airlines enforcing strict luggage limits and charging expensive checked bag fees, it’s important to choose a bag that’s compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you. In this article, I’ll break down the standard carry-on size restrictions and provide recommendations on bags that should work on most flights. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to pack!
Understanding Carry-On Size Limits
Most major airlines in the US allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag in the cabin as long as it meets their size and dimension specs. The FAA sets a general limit of 45 linear inches (the sum of the length + width + height), but individual carriers may have slightly different standards. Here are some common size allowances to keep in mind:
- United, American, Delta: 22″ x 14″ x 9″
- JetBlue, Alaska: 21.5″ x 13.5″ x 9″
- Southwest: Linear size of 62 inches or less (about 22″ x 14″ x 9″)
It’s important to double check the rules for your specific airline, as well as restrictions for any budget carriers you may fly. Many low-cost airlines like Spirit only allow personal item sized bags (about the dimensions of a laptop case) that must fit under the seat.
Deciding Between Hardside and Softside Luggage
When shopping for a carry-on bag, you’ll have to choose between hardside and softside styles. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
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Hardside cases:
- Durable and resistant to dents/damage
- Maintain shape and fit in the overhead bin easily
- Usually have spinner wheels for maneuverability
However, hard shells can be heavier and more bulky than softside bags.
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Softside bags:
- Lightweight and compressible and can fit into tighter spaces
- More flexible for carrying non-traditional items
- Typically cheaper than hardside versions
Softside materials are prone to scuffs and don’t stand upright as well as hard cases.
For domestic flights where you’re less likely to check a bag, I’d recommend a softside carry-on for its compressibility. But for international itineraries with longer trips, a sturdy hardside case holds up better.
Picks for Bags That Fit Under Airline Seats
Here are some top-rated carry-on bags that should squeeze safely under most coach seats:
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner
As a frequent traveler, this has been my go-to carry-on for years. The smooth-rolling spinner wheels and expandable main compartment allow you to pack a lot into a bag that measures perfectly at 21″ high. Its durable hardside construction has endured countless trips unscathed.
Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On Suitcase
For a more budget-friendly option, this hardcase from Amazon is a solid pick. At just over 4 pounds, it’s impressively lightweight while still offering reliable construction. Fits a bunch of gear in its max 21″ height.
eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible
For softside lovers, this convertible weekender converts from a tote to backpack, making it versatile for shorter trips. At only 3 pounds, it squeezes effortlessly under any seat. Multiple interior pockets keep items organized.
Bagail Nylon Carry On Expandable Lightweight Spinner
An affordable perforated nylon bag with a telescoping handle and four double spinner wheels. Zips open like a suitcase but can be worn as a backpack too. Neatly fits in the standard carry-on dimensions at 21″ tall.
Hope this overview helped provide clarity on standard carry-on luggage policies. By choosing a bag within exact size restrictions, you can avoid gate checking fees. Safe travels!
What Size Bag Fits Under an Airplane Seat
| Bag Size | Dimensions (L x W x H inches) | Fits Under Seat? |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Item | 14 x 9 x 7 | Yes |
| Laptop Bag | 17 x 13 x 3 | Yes |
| Carry-On | 22 x 14 x 9 | Sometimes |
| Rolling Duffle | 24 x 16 x 11 | Rarely |
| Rolling Suitcase | 29 x 19 x 11 | No |
FAQ
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What size bag will fit under an airline seat?
Most airlines allow small personal item bags like laptop bags or handbags to fit under the seat in front of you. These bags usually can’t be larger than about 9x14x22 inches or 22x35x56 cm. Bigger carry-on suitcases might not fit depending on the size of the seat well.
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Will a backpack fit?
Backpacks are generally okay as long as they are not too big. A standard sized backpack will most likely fit as it can squeeze into tighter spaces better than wheeled suitcases. But make sure to try it out before your flight to be certain. Otherwise the bag might get checked for a fee.
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What about purses or laptop bags?
Purses, laptop bags, and messengers typically fit just fine under most airline seats. These personal items usually have dimensions around 17x12x5 inches or less. Just be sure there is enough clearance for your bag considering the size of the seat in front of you. Some airlines may have stricter guidelines for carry-on size limits.
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Can I bring a rolling suitcase?
Rolling suitcases are less likely to fit under the seat since the wheels and longer handles take up extra space. Most rolling luggage doesn’t meet the size limits for the seat well. You’ll probably need to check a rolling suitcase rather than bringing it onboard as a carry-on. But it always depends on the specific luggage size and seat configuration.
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What if my bag is an inch too big?
Bag size limits can be flexible depending on how busy the flight is and how nice the airline staff feels. A backpack or bag that is an inch or two over may get allowed, especially if it is less packed. You could try squeezing it in and seeing if it fits without bothering others. Otherwise, the gate agents can determine if it goes in the overhead bin or has to be checked. It never hurts to politely ask!
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Do soft-sided duffel bags work?
Duffel bags can sometimes fit under the airline seat, basically depending on their dimensions. Duffels are favorable because their squishy material allows for adjusting the size. As long as it is not a huge duffel and compact enough to fit into the limited legroom, chances are it will slide right in. Just be cautious of overweight duffels bursting at the seams!
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Will I pay a bag fee?
As long as your carry-on bag fits the airline’s personal item size restrictions for the seat well, there is no extra cost. Checked bags are what usually incur fees. Nevertheless, if a bag is considerably over the size limit or won’t fit in the overhead bin, you may have to check it at the gate. Be sure to know the regulations before packing to avoid bag charges.