Carry-On Luggage Size Guide - Different General Rules on Carry-On Bag Dimensions

When it comes to suitcase preparation, many travellers tend to overlook hand luggage. As a result, carry-on luggage size is frequently one of the causes of check-in difficulties for many tourists. In fact, air carriers provide specific regulations on luggage to ensure the safety of passengers.

For first-time travellers or when you wish to bring some necessary products but aren't sure if they'll be approved on board, the airline restrictions on hand luggage are useful information. If you have purchased plane tickets, you must prepare your hand luggage and checked baggage in accordance with each airline's baggage requirements. The information about carrying on luggage dimensions below will help you easily pass through the airport check-in gate without any problems.

What Is Carry-On Luggage Size Restrictions?

A package or suitcase holding things that you are permitted to bring on board is known as hand luggage. There will be different hand luggage sizes, weights, and other requirements depending on the airline, which should be determined before travelling. During the flight, passengers are allowed a restricted number of carry-on baggage, as well as valuables and needs. Being overweight will result in a slew of expenses as well as a disruption in your travel.

carry on luggage size

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Hand luggage on airlines is typically required to not exceed 7 kilograms and overall dimensions of length, breadth, and height must not exceed 115cm, according to international standards. Because they match the specifications needed by airlines and are suited for short excursions, 20-inch travel bags are the most popular carry-on alternative.

Why You Should Travel With Carrying On Luggage?

When travel becomes more common, the last thing any traveller wants to worry about before heading to the airport is lugging a bag or carrying a backpack. Because the hand-carry luggage size and weight of hand baggage are strictly regulated by most flights. So you'll need to figure out how long your vacation will last, what activities you'll be doing, what season you'll be visiting, and so on before selecting a suitcase or carry-on luggage to store all of your essentials.

Carrying on luggage is the greatest solution for individuals who enjoy minimalism and compactness if your vacation is only a few days longer. The carry-on luggage is easy to carry on the shoulder and manoeuvre due to its small size. You can travel light, without having to carry large luggage and move about the plane comfortably.

If you just have carry-on luggage, you will only have to pay a minimal cost for checked baggage. However, before choosing hand luggage, be sure to examine the facts about each airline, as well as the weight, size, and quantity of carry-on bags.

In addition, you won't have to wait long at the baggage claim area and you won't have to worry about losing your luggage.

Photo by @redgynfernando

What Is The Size Of The Carry-On Bag On Every Airline? 

Each airline has its own baggage weight limit. If you don't want your carry-on luggage to be overweight and you don't want to suffer airline penalties, you need to follow the baggage laws from the moment you pack your luggage for the trip.

The first step in packing overweight carry-on luggage is to familiarise yourself with the airline's carry on luggage dimensions restrictions. Knowing the weight and size restrictions can make it easier to organise your bags. 

There are two pieces of baggage, each weighing roughly 7-10kg. We recommend that you pack your items in such a way that they can easily pass through the door without compromising aviation security because restrictions are in place to guarantee that passengers are as safe as possible throughout the journey.

Passengers who are found to be carrying overweight luggage must pay an extra price at the airport; finding a location to pay the fare takes time, but the fee is greater than pre-booking overweight baggage. Airlines use carry-on luggage rules to guarantee a safe trip. To prevent jeopardising aviation security, which is directly tied to your and others' health and lives, you should not carry too much weight.

Airline

Max Dimensions

Allowance

Max Weight

CabinZero Fit

Aer Lingus

55x40x24cm

25x33x20cm

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

10kg

Aer Lingus Cabin Bags

Aeroflot

55x40x25cm

1 cabin bag

10kg

(15kg for business class travellers)

Aeroflot Cabin Bags

Air Asia

56x36x23cm

40x30x10cm

1 cabin bag +

1 small bag

7kg combined weight

AirAsia Cabin Bags

Air France

55x35x25cm

40x30x15cm

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

12-18kg combined weight

(depending on ticket type)

Air France Cabin Bags 

British Airways

56x45x25cm

40x30x15cm

1 cabin bag +

1 laptop/handbag

23kg combined weight

British Airways Cabin Bag

Delta

56x35x23cm

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

No weight restrictions*

Delta Cabin Bags

easyJet

45x36x20cm

1 cabin bag

15kg

easyJet Cabin Bags

Emirates

55x38x20cm

1 cabin bag

7kg

Emirates Cabin Bags

Etihad Airways

56x36x23cm

23x39x19cm

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

7kg for cabin bag

5kg for personal item

Etihad Airways Cabin Bags

Jet2

56x45x25cm

Not specified

1 cabin bag +

1 laptop/handbag

10kg combined weight

Jet2 Cabin Bags

KLM

55x35x25cm

40x30x15cm

1 cabin bag +

1 small bag

12kg combined weight

KLM Cabin Bags

Lufthansa

55x40x23cm

57x54x15cm

1 cabin bag +

1 foldable garment bag

8kg

Lufthansa Cabin Bags

Norwegian

55x40x23cm

30x20x38cm

1 cabin bag +

1 underseat bag

10kg combined weight

Norwegian Cabin Bags

Qatar Airways

50x37x25cm

Not specified

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

7kg combined weight

Qatar Airways Cabin Bags

Ryanair

40x20x25cm

1 small bag

No weight restrictions

Ryanair Cabin Bags

Thomas Cook Airlines

55x40x20cm

Not specified

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

6kg

Thomas Cook Airlines Cabin Bags

TUI Airways

55x40x20cm

1 cabin bag

10kg

TUI Airways Cabin Bags

Turkish Airlines

55x40x23cm

1 cabin bag

8kg

Turkish Airlines Cabin Bags

Virgin Atlantic

56x36x23cm

1 cabin bag +

1 personal item

10kg

Virgin Atlantic Cabin Bags

Vueling Airlines

40x20x30cm

55x40x20cm

1 small bag +

1 cabin bag**

Not specified

10kg

Vueling Airlines Cabin Bags

Wizz Air

40x30x20cm

1 cabin bag

10kg

 Wizz Air Cabin Bags

 

The CabinZero Collections: Best Airlines-approved Carry-on Packs

Knowing the immense benefits they bring, it makes sense to invest in worthwhile backpacks. This is especially true when you go for the carry-on-only route, a path that many people are taking up due to how liberating it is.

And we at CabinZero understand that all too well. You are no longer bound by your own belongings and gear and the worry of keeping them in check. Instead, now you are granted the freedom of enjoying your trip hassle-free and focusing on what matters.

To that end, we introduce you to our most thoughtful product, the CabinZero backpack family. More than just a rucksack, they are a companion to accompany you through thick and thin on a trip.

1. Cabinzero Classic 28L: Best For All Purposes

“Stick to the classic, and you can’t ever go wrong.” Alexa Chung couldn’t have said it better. You know a backpack is good when you use them year after year without ever thinking of switching to another. Cabinzero Classic 28L is one such bag.

It can easily fit all airlines’ carry-on bag descriptions. The universal carry-on size, light-feather weight (<1.34 lb) and smartly designed straps system make the Classic 28L a joy to carry around. You will feel like it’s an extension of your body before long.

A good backpack always comes with good internalisation. Upon unzipping all the way to the bottom, you will find a main compartment along with air mesh zippered pockets and a laptop sleeve. When you think the bag can’t take anymore, you’d be surprised to learn that it can take even more.

Available in about 30 colourways, there is no shortage of ways to express yourself on the road. Compact, reliable and durable, it’s the best carry-on backpack you need for a getaway.

Note: The content determines the bulkiness of the bag and can affect how it fits into the overhead compartment and/or under the seat. While the Classic 28L can pack more, be sure to adhere to the airline’s size and weight requirements.

2. Cabinzero ADV Pro Backpack 42L: The Suitcase On Your Back

The Cabinzero ADV Pro 42L is for the daring and the adventurous souls. Trekking deep into the forest, exploring off-the-beaten-path, cashing after waters or the Northern light, you will want a backpack as reliable as this.

Thanks to the Nylon 500d Rip-Stop body with a water-resistant coating, it can withstand even the harshest elements. With an ample space of 42L, you don’t have to worry about leaving anything behind on a long trip.

As big as it is, you can transform the whole thing into a neat suitcase by stowing away the back straps. This is useful when you rest before going on the next adventure, with the backpack doing the same in the corner of a hotel room.

Comfort can make or break your whole trip. Thus, we have incorporated the best features you could ask for to make carrying even the heaviest loads a breeze: mould form EVA back panel, PE frame sheet, straps airflow system, etc.

Overall, the CabinZero ADV backpack 42L is a top-quality backpack that is perfect for any traveller looking for durability, comfort, and functionality. You can travel for days on end with this buddy on your back.

3. CabinZero Classic Cross Body 11L: Best Personal Items Bag

As you already know, most airlines allow passengers to bring a personal item bag alongside the handbag. If you want something that can double as a day bag for an excursion, CabinZero Classic Cross Body 11L fits the bill nicely.

What makes the pack shines as a day bag is how roomy it is despite the compact form. It isn’t sizeable enough for a 13’ Macbook, but a 7.9-11’’ tablet can snuggle in easily. 

Otherwise, be it lipstick, phones, a power bank, medicine, or any small items, the 11L bag can handle it all. The Classic Crossbody 11L will be treated as personal attire at the airport, suitable to keep your immediate-use things within reach.

In addition, you will feel safe when it is sitting across your body with anti-theft features and Okoban tracing. Besides the zip lock, there’s a hidden pocket with RFID technology for additional security.

The only nitpick is that the shoulder strap only rests on your shoulder if you wear the bag on your left side. Some folks may find it a bit unintuitive, but not a deal breaker or uncomfortable by any means.

FAQs About Airline Carry-On Size Regulations

Which Items Can And Can't I Take In Hand Luggage?

Aeroplanes are not like automobiles, trains, ships, or any other conventional mode of transportation. To raise people into the air and deliver them to their destination as rapidly as possible, this vehicle uses a combination of several units and technical assistance. However, in comparison to all other modes of transportation, aviation prioritises security, enforcing stringent restrictions over passengers and cargo. If you bring forbidden things that aren't authorised, you'll be denied transportation, and larger items will be punished or barred from flying.

  • Passengers are permitted to carry clothes, shoes, phones (which must be turned off or put on aeroplane mode before the plane takes off), dry food or small amounts of water, laptops, cameras, medication, small bottles of drinking water, and pets (which must follow the rules).
  • Baby food (powders and liquids) and, if accompanied by a baby, a stroller or pushchair are also available. Currently, all airlines allow children's car seats to be brought inside the cabin. It should be noted that this is a kid or infant seat. If you travel with a stroller, you are permitted to bring it as hand baggage as long as it does not exceed the airline carry-on size dimensions and is packed in line with safety requirements.
  • Passengers with a history of or who are suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure are permitted to bring medicine, tiny oxygen cylinders under 230g, pacemakers, wheelchairs, and blood pressure monitors.
  • Cosmetics that are compressed, such as powder, lipstick, and makeup tools, are not sharp. Liquid cosmetics, such as fragrances and beauty solutions, must be packaged in bottles with a total volume of less than one litre.
  • Allowed to bring a guide dog for the disabled or other pets that satisfy the airline's requirements.
  • Musical instruments and athletic equipment are considered carry-on or checked luggage and are subject to additional fees.

airline carry-on size dimensions

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To ensure flight security and safety for customers, all airlines have regulations on prohibited baggage to be brought on board in both hand-carried and checked-in form as follows:

  • All baggage does not meet the size and weight requirements
  • Prohibited items from being carried on board according to the Dangerous Goods Regulations of the World Aviation Organisation, the World Air Transport Association and of the countries whose flight routes are prohibited
  • Meat of animals or raw animals
  • Human remains
  • Sharp objects that can cause injury such as razors, paper knives, scissors with a blade length of more than 6cm, pliers - wrenches - wrenches - screwdrivers - batons or sharp objects with a length above 10cm, dangerous tools, metal cane/umbrella handle, camera/camera tripod.
  • Saws or saw blades, sharp tools, sports clubs (snooker, golf, baseball, skiing, etc.)
  • Objects that can cause explosions such as bullets, mines, military explosives, firecrackers (fireworks, fireworks, firecrackers, flares, ...), gasoline, lighters - matches.
  • Weapons: guns, slingshots, laser guns, knives, swords, spears, spears, bayonets or toys that look like real weapons.

What Is The Weight Limit For A Carry-On Bag?

Typically, regardless of the airline you fly with, each boarding ticket includes a set quantity of carrying on bag sizes. Normally, each boarding ticket includes hand baggage regulations. Furthermore, the luggage weight restriction is adjusted to fit the size of the passenger compartment and assure passenger safety during the ride.

The appropriate hand baggage weight is no more than 7kg if you can carry from 5 to 10kg on European and American aircraft, 12 to 18kg on Asian carriers, and notably up to 23kg on Asian airlines. The rationale for the 7kg restriction when flying is that there is a separate rule to govern and assure safety based on the load-bearing and the size of the hand baggage compartment. 7kg is also an appropriate weight for transporting, as well as carrying up and down. From a financial standpoint, the larger and heavier the luggage, the higher the shipping expenses.

Aegean Airlines, for example, permits each passenger 8 kilograms of hand luggage. Passengers on Air Canada are permitted to carry up to 10 kilograms. Carry-on baggage weighing more than 5 kg is not permitted on Air China flights.

>> Read more: How many ounces can you take on a plane?

What Size Luggage Is Allowed For Carry-On?

A companion suitcase is always present on many people's lengthy flights by airline. Airline baggage regulation is information that everyone should be aware of, because most travellers who fly for the first time or at least often meet these errors, end up paying a lot of additional money at the airport or having to leave some luggage behind. You must be informed of the current restrictions on checked luggage sizes of various airlines in order to have a smooth trip and a short check-in time.

carrying on bag sizes

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As a general rule, each bag must be stored beneath the seat in front of you or in the plane's hand luggage size compartment. If the aforementioned standards are not followed, it must be checked in as checked luggage. Some items can not be allowed in carry-on depending on the aircraft type and the size of the luggage compartment, even if the maximum size and weight rules are satisfied.

What Happens If My Carry-On Is Too Big?

International airlines that serve cross-country flights are frequently highly rigorous regarding luggage, so you must research each airline's and even the flight's unique requirements ahead of time. Many airlines require travellers to bring only one piece of baggage and no forbidden items.

If your luggage is overweight, the airline will either ask you to repack it and pay additional fees, or it will be sent via freight. The overweight charge, however, will be more expensive if bought at the airport rather than in advance. If you wish to save money on this cost, you can share certain goods in your travelling companion's luggage if they are still overweight.

What Is The Difference Between A Personal Item And A Carry-On?

It is considered a personal item if it fits under the seat size luggage in front of you. As a result, compact backpacks and sling bags will frequently qualify as personal goods. However, if you are travelling with a bigger suitcase or a large 65-litre pack for a lengthy journey, your luggage will now be classified as a backpack and will be considered hand luggage.

hand luggage size

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A personal item cannot be bigger than 14"H, 18"W, 8" D. These are usually purses, totes, computer bags, briefcases, small backpacks and diaper bags! This personal item must be no larger than 14” X18”x8” and fit under the seat in front of you.

Cabin baggage size: You must be able to stow your carry-on luggage beneath the seat or in the overhead bin. It can't be more than 24"H, 16"W, and 10"D "D and no more than 35 pounds (with handles, wheels, and straps). Large backpacks, duffel bags, and tiny suitcases/wheeled luggage are the most common.

Is It Acceptable For Me To Carry A Power Bank On The Flight?

The answer is probably yes to you. A power bank with a capacity of around 10,000mAh and a voltage of 3.7V, built using lithium-ion technology, with a capacity of approximately 160Wh is acceptable for flight. Each passenger is only permitted to bring two power banks. However, with this item, travellers are only accepted to bring hand luggage and carry-on items, and no checked baggage is allowed.

Each airline has its own set of hand-carry luggage size regulations. Baggage that is overweight or contains items that are not on the list of objects to be transported will take longer to manage and will have an impact on your attitude throughout the journey. As a result, you can save the aforementioned reference information to make each preparation step easier.

Vy Nguyen