Luggage Size Guide
Carry-on, personal item, and checked luggage dimensions for every major airline.
Carry-on size limits by airline
| Airline | Carry-on (in) | Carry-on (cm) | Weight |
|---|
Suitcase sizing — what to buy
International carry-on (22 × 14 × 9" / 56 × 36 × 23 cm)
Fits universally across US, EU, Asian airlines. Trips up to 5 days for most people. Hard or soft side both work. Look for "international carry-on" sized 21–22" exterior.
Domestic carry-on (US, slightly larger)
Some US airlines allow 23–24" carry-ons but international flights won't. Stick to 22" if you ever fly outside the US.
Medium check-in (24–26")
5–10 day trips. 60–80L capacity. Stay under 50 lb / 23 kg or pay overweight fees.
Large check-in (28–30")
10+ days, family vacations. 90–120L. Most airlines max at 62 linear inches (L+W+H) — past this is "oversized" with surcharge.
Personal item (varies)
Goes under the seat. Backpack, tote, or under-seat roller. Most airlines: 18 × 14 × 8" (45 × 35 × 20 cm).
FAQ
Can I fly carry-on only?
Yes — pack rolling clothes (saves 30% space), wear bulkiest items on plane, use packing cubes for compression. 5–7 days is doable in 22" carry-on with discipline.
What's "linear inches"?
L + W + H added together. Most US airlines limit checked bags to 62 linear inches (158 cm). A 28×20×14 bag = 62. Tape measure your bag's exterior including wheels and handles.
Spinner vs roller wheels?
4-wheel spinner: roll alongside, easy in airport. 2-wheel roller: better on cobblestone, lighter, more interior space (no wheel intrusion). For Europe/Asia cobblestones: 2-wheel.
Should I get hard or soft luggage?
Hard: better impact protection, easier to clean, lighter (polycarbonate). Soft: more flexible packing, exterior pockets, slightly more capacity. For checked bags, soft. For carry-ons, hard.