Maximize your carry-on. The ultimate guide to airline luggage dimensions and packing tips

Carry-on luggage dimensions

Most airlines allow passengers to bring one piece of carry-on luggage on board. However, the specific dimensions and weight for this luggage vary among airlines. As such, you should familiarize yourself with your airline's carry-on luggage policy before your flight to avoid any hiccups.

While carry-on luggage often refers to a suitcase, it can also mean backpacks and other types of bags. Though dimensions can vary, they typically measure around 20x16x8 inches (including wheels and handles), and weigh between 18 and 22 pounds. Some airlines even permit an additional small bag, such as a purse or camera bag.

Varied dimensions of carry-on luggage among airlines

The dimensions of carry-on luggage can vary depending on the airline. For instance, Ryanair and Wizzair allow dimensions of 16x8x10 inches. Similarly, Lufthansa, KLM, and other airlines have their unique specifications, making it essential to check with your airline before your journey.

Keep in mind that low-budget airlines usually don't provide carry-on luggage for infants. Standard children's accessories necessary for parents during the journey, like baby food, should be packed in the parents' luggage.

What you can bring in your carry-on luggage

Knowing what you can pack in your carry-on luggage according to airline regulations is essential. The rules for transporting food, medicines, cosmetics, and drinks may not be straightforward, so it's crucial to know about quantity and volume limits.

Here are a few things you can carry on board:

- Cosmetics in packs up to 3.4 oz, placed in a 1-quart transparent bag,

- Alcoholic beverages with a maximum alcohol content of 70%, in packs up to 3.4 oz (limits don't apply to duty-free purchases),

- Food and liquid products, which must be packed as cosmetics,

- Medical equipment, like a blood pressure monitor,

- Necessary medicines, including those available on prescription (liquid medicines don't have limits),

- Baby food, which doesn't have any limits.

Carry-on luggage options

While a suitcase is a typical choice for hand luggage, a backpack or soft bag may also work. Be aware that the dimensions of your luggage are likely to be checked. If your bag doesn't fit in the guide basket used for measurement, it will be considered too big.

Carry-on luggage for airplane travel

A suitcase may not always be the best choice for carry-on luggage. A soft bag or backpack could be a better option if it can be easily squeezed into the measuring basket. However, remember that oversized carry-on luggage may result in additional fees, depending on the airline's policy.