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Survival Guide: What To Pack In Your Hand Luggage.

You can’t beat that buzz when you’re packing for a trip. Soon to be out on the road, exploring what this awesome world has to offer , packing marks the start of your next adventure. But before the exploring can start, there’s the flight to deal with. Packing suitable and useful items into your hand luggage or carry-on baggage can make a flight so much less hassle than it needs to be. Other than the obvious such as your passport and travel documents, check out our handy guide for what to pack in your hand luggage.

You can thank us later 😉

1. A change of clothes

The weather and time of day is likely to be different when you finally arrive at your destination. So, it’s worth bringing a change of clothes. Whether it’s a jacket and long pants or shorts and a t-shirt, pack it in there.

Plus, they can also be used during the flight to achieve super cozy levels. Yes!

2. Eye mask and ear plugs

Handy to block out distractions and guarantee a good nap, an eye mask and ear plugs are carry-on packing essentials.

Eye mask = no unwelcome light. Ear plugs = no air craft noise and no more noisy passengers.

When considering what to pack in your hand luggage, this should be an absolute priority (if you love food as much as we do).

Biscuits, power or protein bars, trail mix; they’re all good options to keep you full (and save your wallet) during the flight.

4. Toiletries

Feeling clean and hygienic during a flight is key. Packing items into your hand luggage like a small tube of toothpaste, a toothbrush, chewing gum, face wipes and eye drops can make you feel human again during longer flights.

Also, hand sanitiser is your friend. Trust us.

Hands up if you’ve asked to borrow a pen to fill out a landing card. Guilty!

Save time and effort and pack one before you go to kick-start your adventure on a good note.

Whether it’s for your phone, camera, or laptop, don’t forget this baby to make sure you can stay connected once you land.

Ready to explore the world?

Come check out where Topdeck travel and get ready for adventure!

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Tips on Packing

1. Preparing to Pack

Before embarking on your travels, it is important to understand carry-on and suitcase regulations to simplify your time packing, and your time at the airport.

Keep in mind that each traveler should only check one suitcase measuring approximately 30 x 20 x 10 inches, get in touch with your airline carrier to ask about any checked baggage fees. Any sharp items like scissors, blades, and razors should be packed in your checked luggage. To be easily identified, make sure to use your CIE Tours’ luggage tags and strap. Additionally, check with your Travel Agent about prohibited goods such as lighters and matches.

CIE Tours provides each traveler with a handy CIE Tours backpack that is designed to fit perfectly under your seat on the coach. If you plan to bring your own carry-on, it must be soft-sided, without wheels, and must be small enough to fit under the coach seat.

As for liquids in carry-on bags, TSA requires all liquids, gels, and aerosols be in 3-ounce or smaller containers, which must fit in one 1-quart size zip-top clear plastic bag. This bag will be placed on the conveyor belt at airport security. Any liquids in larger containers can be packed in your checked baggage.

2. Packing Checklist:

It’s time to prepare for your vacation! Packing efficiently will not only simplify the airport process, but it will ensure that each traveler can enjoy their trip to the fullest of its capacity. Below are some reminders and tips on what to bring with you on your trip.

Make sure to pack important travel information including: - Passport - E-ticket receipts - Car/hotel vouchers (if applicable) - Travel insurance - Money; credit & debit cards/cash

It’s important to keep in mind that the weather during your trip can differ depending on the season and location that your destination is in. A few important essential clothing items to pack include: - Comfortable walking shoes - Multi-weather jacket (with removable lining) - Raincoat - Pajamas - Pants/capris/shorts - Shirts - Sweater or fleece - Men's jacket/sport coat (only for those in 5-star hotels stays) - Socks and undergarments - Swimwear and gym gear (some hotels have spas, pools, and gyms)

While hotels often provide basic toiletries, some important necessities that you can pack yourself include: - Washcloths (not in all hotels) - Toothpaste - Soap - Lotion - Sunscreen (depending on season) - Ziploc bags - Feminine products - Razor/shaving gel

To make your traveling easier and more comfortable, some accessories or miscellaneous items you might want to pack for your convenience, and depending on the weather of your destination are: - Sunglasses - Hat (if sunny or cold) - Scarf and gloves - Costume jewelry (we recommend leaving valuables at home) - Folding umbrella - Refillable water bottle

It is important to remember to pack any medical necessities that you may need to use throughout your trip. Below is a list of things you may want to pack and have prepared for daily use, or for emergencies: - Medicine in original bottles with labels - Prescriptions from doctor for refills - Reading glasses/cases - Contact lenses - Band-aids - Pain relievers and antacids - Allergy & motion sickness medications - Insect repellent

Electronics or other devices that you may want to bring with you on your trip can include: - Cell phone/charger - Tablet/charger - Laptop/charger - Headphones - Converter or adapter plugs - Camera/charger - Extra memory card

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What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

• Twitter: @AskTSA
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• Text Message: Text "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872)

The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

Search by A-Z

Aerosol Insecticide

• Carry On Bags: No
• Checked Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)

Aerosol insecticides are not allowed in carry-on; however they are allowed in checked bags as long as they are not labeled as hazardous material (HAZMAT).

Air Mattress with Built-in Pump

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)
• Checked Bags: Yes

Air mattresses with built-in pump are allowed in carry-on bags. Please check with your airline for any size or weight restrictions.

Airbrush Make-up Machine

Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage.  Most other consumer devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

For more information to portable electronic devices, see the FAA regulations.

Alcoholic beverages

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed)

Check with your airline before bringing any alcohol beverages on board. FAA regulations prohibit travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless served by a flight attendant.  Additionally, Flight Attendants are not permitted to serve a passenger who is intoxicated.

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. 

Mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on must be able to comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.

For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof

• Checked Bags: No

Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Check with your airline if ammunition is allowed in checked bags. Small arms ammunitions must be securely packed in fiber, wood or metal boxes or other packaging specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. Ask the airline about limitations or fees. Read the guidelines for traveling with firearms.

When traveling, be sure to comply with the laws concerning possession of firearms as they vary by local, state and international government.

• Carry On Bags: Yes

You may transport this item in carry-on or checked bags. For items you wish to carry on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Arc Lighters, Plasma Lighters, Electronic Lighters, E-Lighters

Measures must be taken to prevent unintentional activation of the heating element while on board the aircraft. Examples of effective measures to prevent unintentional activation include, but are not limited to: removing the battery from the lighter; placing the lighter into a protective case; and/or using a protective cover, safety latch, or locking device on the lighter's activation button.

Each lithium ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh; or for lithium metal batteries, a lithium content of 2 grams.

Recharging of the devices and/or the batteries on board the aircraft is not permitted.

See FAA regulations for more information.

Artificial Skeleton Bones

Axes and hatchets, sharp objects, household & tools, sporting & camping, miscellaneous.

Protect Your Trip »

Carry-on luggage and personal item size limits (2024).

Just like checked bags, carry-on luggage size restrictions can vary by airline.

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Key Takeaways

• The carry-on size limit for many airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• Most domestic airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.
• You can typically bring a carry-on bag in addition to a personal item.
• Your personal item should be able to fit neatly under the seat in front of you.

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item, you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Domestic Airlines

Alaska airlines, allegiant air, american airlines, delta air lines, frontier airlines, hawaiian airlines, southwest airlines, spirit airlines, sun country airlines, united airlines, international airlines, all nippon airways, british airways, cathay pacific, klm royal dutch airlines, qatar airways, scandinavian airlines, singapore airlines, turkish airlines, virgin atlantic.

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you will have to pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). However, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only   take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Airlines , Travel Tips

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Simple Flying

Which airlines have the most generous checked baggage allowances.

A roundup of base economy fare luggage limits, and the costs you'll incur to bring more.

Are you traveling for a long holiday? Or moving to a new home? Sometimes, we have little choice but to bring two, three, or even four large suitcases to the airport, hoping the fees will be manageable. But for airlines , not only does the total weight of everything on an aircraft matter, but also its balanced distribution. Unsurprisingly, most allowances and fees are broken up into route zones. But which airlines are the most generous when it comes to cargo hold real estate?

All numbers below are based on the most basic economy class flight tickets found in the next couple of months (by search or calculators found on airline sites) and are subject to change. Since most airlines will provide those flying in premium/higher priced economy seats and loyal customers with alliance membership status with extra checked baggage on every flight, those enhancements are eliminated for this purpose.

Some airlines prefer to deal with luggage allowances by weight in kilograms, while others primarily use a "number of pieces" system; if and when significant, these will be pointed out. Prices are in USD unless otherwise expressed.

European and Middle Eastern Airlines

The renowned Dubai-based carrier generally uses the weight concept, and the cheapest seats on limited routes will allow you to check 20 kg of luggage. Other routes may start at a 25 kg allowance.

If you need to add extra weight, it will cost you between $15 and $50 per kg, depending on how far you fly between the Middle East and Europe, South or East Asia, and Oceania. However, almost always, choosing the next highest economy fare to get an extra 5 kg will be cheaper than buying the weight and will get you extra miles.

When traveling to Africa and the Americas, you can bring one piece with a limit of 23 kg (50 pounds), and an extra piece of luggage will run you between $200 and $250.

Hand baggage-only economy seats are relatively easy to find on the Abu Dhabi-based airline. Still, if you use dollars to buy weight, the low end is a bit more expensive per kg than Emirates, at $20 - $45 per extra kg, depending on your destination. Shorter-haul economy bucket upgrades are between $30 and $55 but allow you to check a bag between 25 to 30 kg. However, once you start bringing multiple suitcases, the costs begin to add up.

On long-haul routes to the US, you're typically permitted two bags up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each, but your third (or more) bag will be between $225 and $275. In the opposite direction to East Asia (for example, to Tokyo NRT), passengers get up to 30 kg. If needed, a reasonable economy fare upgrade under $100 will add 5 kg, 1300 more miles, seat selection options, and priority check-in.

British Airways

BA also has significant hand baggage-only economy options to get the lowest overall airfare, especially around Europe. With one of these tickets, on short-haul travel to or from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, etc., one bag might cost you in the ballpark of £25 to £55. Your second is between £45 and £65, and a third (or more) £60 to £80 (this heavily depends on the route).

It's worth noting that on some routes, say LHR - MXP, economy fare upgrades can be found for just under £20, getting you a free bag, much better than the £40 bag add-on quoted by BA's calculator.

Most long-haul flights out of London, such as those to New York City, ORD, LAX, SIN, HKG, and JNB, all get you one free 23 kg bag. But on select routes, such as HND and DEL, the British flag carrier permits two bags for the lowest-priced economy seat. On these flights, with only one free suitcase allowed, checking in a second will cost between £65 and £90, or £120 to £170 for a third.

A majority of Air France's operations within the EU and long-haul allow for a carry-on-only economy fare. However, they note that as long as there's space under the aircraft, you can take as many as ten pieces of luggage with you.

For regional travel, as well as to and from North Africa, a bag will run you between $20 and $40, $45 to $55 for a second, and $200 for any more. Traveling from their base at CDG to South Africa or East Asia (at least, JNB, SIN, HKG, and HND), it will be about €50 to upgrade from a carry-on only economy ticket to the next lowest, securing one piece of luggage. And to North America (JFK, ORD, LAX, ATL), the cost is doubled. If you are allowed one bag and want to bring more, the airline's website states a second suitcase could be between $75 and $100 for these routes or $200 to $285 for any further.

By far, one of the most straightforward pricing schemes is found with the German flag carrier. According to their website, "If you are traveling on the Economy Class Light fare, you have the option of booking one item of baggage per route, weighing up to 23 kg, online for a fee. On flights between Europe and the USA/Canada on the Economy Light fare, a second item of baggage can be added to the booking for a fee at the Lufthansa service counter at the airport."

As a regional example, FRA - LHR, the first bag is $30, and $75 beyond that for any others. On longer haul trips to ORD, NYC, LAX, or YVR, for which carry-on-only was the cheapest option, the first suitcase is $75, then $90 for a second, and between $185 to $230 for a third. Finally, when traveling East (for example, HND, SIN, HKG) - the first bag is $70, but for any others jumps to $230.

Competing on regional routes with the global players above, Ryanair has a simple strategy of up to three 30 kg bags per passenger, between €21 and €60 per bag, depending on the route and season.

With this other significant low-cost European carrier, luggage prices range from €10 to €48 per bag per flight. Examples include London Luton to Amsterdam for €22 per bag per way and London Gatwick to Milan Bergamo for €29.

Following key aviation topics? Check out Simple Flying's Guides .

US Airlines

American airlines.

Overall, the airline states you can take up to 10 bags (five for Mexico, The Caribbean, Central America, and South America) as long as there's space and up to 50 lbs per suitcase (70 for Oceania).

Domestic luggage will cost you $30 for one, $40 for a second, $150 for a third, and $200 for a fourth or more. Internationally, these are expanded to $0 - $75 (first), $40 - $100 (second), and $200 for any others, depending on the route (ex., Your first bag on a transpacific flight is free in every case, but when flying transatlantic is $75 if your ticket doesn't include any complimentary baggage).

Delta Air Lines

Also, with a 10-bag limit (four on Delta Connection flights), it is the major Atlanta-based carrier. Price per bag can depend on the destination, but generally, domestic luggage costs the same as American Airlines, but on international routes, it differs significantly.

Long-haul flights to Asia or Oceania provide the first bag free, then $100 (second), and $200 (third or more). Checking in bags for other international destinations will cost $30 - 75 (first), $40 - 100 (second), $125 - 285 (third), and $200 - 285 (fourth or more).

United Airlines

When traveling with United, bags are checked according to the following charts:

Hawaiian Airlines

This destination carrier is quite clear with their standard baggage fees:

The plethora of low-cost carriers

Allegiant Air will permit you to bring up to four bags with a limit of 40 lbs each, at a rate of $20 to $50 per bag, depending on the route. With Allegiant, as with many of the following airlines, prices are based on pre-purchasing bags online, as waiting until the day of departure will incur extra fees.

Alaska Airlines has no explicit limit on the number of bags allowed onboard, only that it's based on aircraft capacity. Your first piece of checked luggage flies for $30, then $40, and $100 for a third, limited to 50 lbs per bag.

With Frontier , passengers who book online will find luggage rates of $48 - $54 (first bag), $68 - $74 (second), and $88 - $94 (third), based on destination.

JetBlue flies mainly within North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean, though they also offer flights to London and Paris. Luggage on all non-European routes is $35 (first), $45 (second), and $150 (third or more), while for Europe, these prices jump to $65, $105, and $200.

Southwest is well known for allowing every passenger two free bags; any more after that is $75 each.

Spirit permits passengers to bring up to 5 bags at the cost of $55 to $64 (first), $65 - $74 (second), and $99 (third through fifth), depending on the route.

Finally, using Sun Country Airlines ' baggage calculator shows that one bag will cost between $30 and $42, depending on the route, and $45 for each extra.

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Asian Airlines

Singapore airlines.

Flights connecting Singapore Changi Airport with North America allow two bags with the cheapest fare. Extra suitcases can be pre-purchased for $160 each. And to increase the standard weight allowance from 23 to 32 kg will run you $100 per bag.

For travel to all other destinations, travelers are permitted 25 kg of luggage, and extra weight can be purchased by the kg, with the cost depending on your route. From Singapore to Zone 1, each kg costs $6. For Zone 2, it's increased to $12, $17 for Zone 3, and $21 for Zone 4. The territories of each zone are listed below:

Zone 1: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam

Zone 2: China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Mongolia, South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka), Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia (Asian territory), Japan, Korea, and the Middle East

Zone 3: Australia, New Zealand, Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, and Timor Leste

Zone 4: Africa, Europe (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United Kingdom), and Russia (European territory)

Even when flying Special Economy with ANA, whether short-haul or long-haul, you should get two free checked bags. Any extra will come at the cost of $200 per bag. Domestically, there's a weight limit of 20 kg and a fee of ¥5,000 JPY for excess baggage.

Asiana Airlines

Traveling between Korea and the US with Asiana is also forgiving in economy, with two complimentary bags. If a suitcase is overweight, $100 will increase the limit by 9 kg, and $200 will get you any extra bags.

Non-US travel is more complicated. Generally, you'll be allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg, but further luggage costs vary significantly by flight length.

For short-haul flights taking 1.5 hours or less, a second bag is $60; a third is $90; adding 5 kg of weight to a bag is $35; adding 9 kg is $50.

Travel between Korea and Japan, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and Mongolia will incur fees of $80 (second bag), $110 (third bag), $40 (for 5 kg), and $60 (for 9 kg).

For different routes in Asia (excluding the Middle East), $110 (second bag), $160 (third bag), $60 (for 5 kg), and $90 (for 9 kg).

Lastly, for European, Middle Eastern, or Oceanic flights, fees are $140 (second bag), $210 (third bag), $90 (for 5 kg), and $110 (for 9 kg).

Cathay Pacific

Generally, an Economy Light ticket will afford you one suitcase or 23 kg. According to Cathay Pacific's website, there are two scenarios for paying fees if your route uses the weight system. For any class, if you're within the weight allowance but have multiple bags, you may have to pay a small fee, depending on the zone you travel to:

Flying between HKG and Zones 1 through 3 will cost $30, while Zone 4 will cost $60. If you must buy extra weight for a single large suitcase, the price per kg for flights between HKG and Zone 1 is $13, $20 for Zone 2, $25 for Zone 3, and $45 for Zone 4.

However, If the piece system is used to add extra 23 kg bags, the following fees are incurred:

$100 for flying between HKG and Zone 1, $130 for Zones 2 and 3, $150 for Zone 4, and $200 for Zones 5 and 6.

Cathay Pacific lists zones as below:

Zone 1: China, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, South Korea, Russia (Asian territory), Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam

Zone 2: Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka

Zone 3: The Middle East

Zone 4: Oceania, Europe (including Russian territory not in Zone 1), and South Africa

Zone 5: North America

Zone 6: Central and South America

EVA Air and China Airlines

A Basic Economy ticket to any destination with either of these Taiwanese carriers will get you one complimentary 23 kg piece of luggage. As with the other Asian airlines, zones also designate how much extra baggage will cost with these carriers. For EVA and China Airlines, Zone 1 = $140 per bag, Zone 2 = $170, Zone 3 = $200, Zone 4 = $230, and Zone 5 = $260. The globe is split as follows:

Zone 1: Japan, Korea, Philippines, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar (Zone 2 for CI)

Zone 2: New Zealand, Australia, Micronesia including Guam & Palau (Zone 1 for CI), Russia, and Asian countries not listed in other zones

Zone 3: LAX, SEA, SFO, YVR, HNL, and the Middle East (and Ontario for CI)

Zone 4: Other North American destinations not listed in Zone 3, Europe (including Turkey), and Africa

Zone 5: Central and South America

Ethiopian Airlines

Africa's largest airline, Ethiopian, is very generous when it comes to checked baggage allowances. According to their website, economy class ticket holders are permitted two free bags up to 23 kg when traveling to destinations other than those within the country, Doha, Muscat, Kuwait, Bahrain, and sometimes Khartoum.

For these routes, they use a weight system rather than by piece. When traveling domestically, you may bring up to 20 kg of luggage, and for the first four other locations listed above, 40 kg. The outlier is on a trip from Kuwait to Khartoum, where economy class passengers may bring up to 46 kg of checked baggage.

If you need to pay for extra baggage by weight, domestically is 75 ETB per kg, but for the other above cities is between $18 and $20.

Between Asia (other than the Middle East) and their base at ADD, an extra bag will come at a steep cost, between $275 and $300. The lowest rates per bag on trips to Europe will be $225, and $275 at the high end, though more expensive baggage fees are incurred when connecting rather than flying direct. Flying to anywhere in the Americas with an extra bag is a flat fee of $225 regardless of destination. And finally, regional travel within Africa or north to the Middle East with a third piece of luggage will be between $150 (East Africa) and $225 (DXB or DWC).

Kenyan Airways

Kenya's flag carrier has a much more straightforward approach. Essentially on par with Ethiopian, Kenyan allows economy class passengers two complimentary bags on all flights, except domestically, which is one.

And the price of an extra?

Between Africa and the Americas/Europe, $200. To the Middle East, $225. Further to East Asia, $275. And between other African countries, $100. It's worth noting that domestic fees may be between $25 and $50, and on their fifth freedom sectors, $50 per bag.

Royal Air Maroc

This one world partner splits their baggage allowances into four categories:

• Between Europe and Morocco - none to one, depending on the route.
• USA, Canada, Africa, and the Middle East - two
• All other destinations in the network - one

If you are flying on an economy ticket between Europe and Morocco with no bag but show up at the airport with one, the airline will charge you €90.

A second bag to Europe or other unlisted destinations (notably, Asia) will be €170 and €210, respectively. When checking in a third bag for flights within Africa or to the Middle East, the carrier will charge an impressive €380. For travel to Europe, it's much lower at €170. And for the Americas, Asia, and other destinations, a third bag will cost €210 (or $210 for the United States).

Are there any airlines you would like added to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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2024 Checked Luggage Size Chart and Allowances for 62 Airlines [Dimensions, Sizes and More]

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Checked Luggage Allowances by Airline

Can i prepay for baggage, recommended cards that reimburse your baggage fees, checked luggage options.

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With no universal set of rules for checked luggage allowances, you need to review what you’re permitted to bring with you every time you travel in order to avoid excess charges.

Allowances can differ from airline to airline, with some allocating a total weight allowance and some restricting passengers to a specific number of pieces. Airline policies can also vary depending on the route and will nearly always vary based on the cabin you’re traveling in.

Your ticket will give you the most accurate information for your specific flight. If baggage details are not included on your ticket, you can check out our handy table below that details allowances for over 60 popular airlines.

Where available, you can also click the airline name for a more detailed overview of the airline’s baggage policy, including excess charges and frequent flyer allowances.

When talking about baggage allowances, many airlines refer to “maximum linear dimensions” or something similar. This is merely the number you get when you add together the length, width (or height), and depth of a piece of luggage. For example, if you had a suitcase that’s 26 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, then its linear dimensions are 62 inches, or right at the maximum for many airlines.

Traveling light? We’ve also covered carry-on luggage allowances with a similar size chart.

Your airline may allow passengers the ability to prepay luggage online for less than at the airport. Individual airlines’ baggage policies can be found by clicking the airline name in the preceding table or by visiting the airline’s website.

If you will be paying to check a bag on your next flight, or if your luggage is overweight or oversized, use one of the recommended Capital One cards below so that you can be reimbursed for the cost. Each card detailed allows you to redeem Capital One miles for 1 cent each as a statement credit against travel purchases made in the previous 90 days.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

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Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

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Hot Tip:  To view more checked bags, check out our article on the best checked luggage bags for travelers .

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does checked baggage have to be a suitcase.

Checked luggage can come in various forms, from hard-shell suitcases to soft duffel bags or backpacks. Passengers can often also check-in boxes or different shaped packages, providing they adhere to maximum size restrictions imposed by the airline.

What is the largest suitcase you can check on a plane?

There are no set restrictions for checked luggage, so airlines define their own baggage policies. A standard size that is seen consistently across many airlines is 62 inches (158 cm) linear. The weight will depend on the cabin, but quite often the maximum weight a piece can be (with or without overweight charges) is 70 pounds (32 kg).

Do checked bags get searched?

Checked baggage is generally screened using scanners so it’s not usually necessary for a physical bag inspection. TSA has the right to search checked luggage if they choose to and will leave a note inside your bag if an inspection has taken place.

Do wheels count when measuring luggage?

Most airlines will count wheels and handles within the measurements, so you should include these when measuring your luggage.

What is considered oversized luggage?

There is no standard measurement for oversized luggage as this is defined by the airline. A common size seen regularly with many airlines (but not all) is maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 cm).

How do I avoid overweight baggage fees?

Be sure to check the policy for your airline, cabin, and particular route before packing your luggage. Use your bathroom scales or a dedicated bag weighing scale. If you find yourself with excessive weight at the airport, try to transfer some items into your carry-on bag.

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

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How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Checked Baggage Information

Chinese Domestic Flights

If you have any questions, please call the Hainan Airlines 24-hour ticketing service hotline or contact the Hainan Airlines directly operated ticket office.

International and regional routes operated by Hainan Airlines

1.The free baggage allowance for passengers with child tickets is the same as that for adults.

2.The free checked baggage allowance for infant tickets is one piece. The maximum weight for a single piece of checked baggage on Hainan Airlines-operated flights is 10 kilograms (22 pounds), and the total length, width, and height of a single piece of checked baggage must not exceed 115 centimetres. An additional folding stroller or crib (20*40*55) can be checked for free, and If cabin space allows and approved by the purser, it can be brought into the cabin.

3.The upper limit of the weight of a single piece of checked baggage shall not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs), and the sum of the dimensions of the three sides shall not exceed 203 cm (80 inches). If the weight and dimensions exceed the above standards, it is recommended that passengers disassemble the baggage and reassemble it. Please log on to http://www.hnacargo.com/Portal/Default.aspx to contact the Hainan Airlines' Cargo Department.

4.Fortune Wings Platinum Card, Gold Card, and Silver Card holders are entitled to an additional 1 piece of free checked baggage allowance on top of the free baggage allowance corresponding to their ticket's cabin class.

5.This checked baggage policy is implemented from March 11, 2024 (the date of ticket issuance).

Special Route

3.The upper limit of the weight of a single piece of checked baggage shall not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs), and the sum of the dimensions of the three sides shall not exceed 203 cm (80 inches). If the weight and dimensions exceed the above standards, it is recommended that passengers disassemble the baggage and reassemble it. Please log on to http://www.hnacargo.com/ to contact the HNA Cargo Department.

5.5.This checked baggage policy is implemented from March 11, 2024 (the date of ticket issuance).

 International brand products

1.The free baggage allowance standard for passengers holding children's tickets is considered adult.

2.Infants: 1）Passengers holding basic economy class brand baby tickets will be treated as adults for free baggage allowance; 2）Free baggage allowance for passengers holding standard and flexible economy class baby tickets: 1 piece. The maximum weight of single checked baggage for Hainan Airlines (HU) self operated flights is 10 kg (22 lb)，maximum dimensions per Piece (Length + Width + Height) is 115 cm; 3）All passengers holding baby tickets: a foldable stroller or cradle (20cm * 40cm * 55cm) can be checked in free of charge. If the cabin space allows, it can be brought into the cabin with the consent of the purser.

3.Fortune Wings Platinum Card, Gold Card, and Silver Card holders are entitled to an additional 1 piece of free checked baggage allowance on top of the free baggage allowance corresponding to their ticket's cabin class.

4.This checked baggage policy is implemented from March11, 2024 (the date of ticket issuance).

5.The Haikou Bangkok route will implement this standard from March 31, 2024 (departure flight date).

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Khabarovsk: The city on the 5,000 ruble banknote

A night view of Khabarovsk, the capital of Russia's Far East. Source: Lori/Legion-Media

Located at the confluence of the Amur and Ussuri rivers, Khabarovsk (6140 kilometers from Moscow) is the second largest city in the Russian Far East after Vladivostok. Having grown from a small military post in the middle of the 19 th  century, the city got its name from the famous Russian explorer Yerofei Khabarov, who surveyed the Amur River. Currently Khabarovsk is the administrative center of the Far Eastern Federal District.

Where to go on a first date with the city

Source: Lori/Legion-Media

The city was founded by Count Nikolai Muravyov-Amursky and the main street is named in his honor. Modern buildings and shopping centers coexist with old stone houses of gray and red. A monument to this famous Russian statesman can be found in the city’s Central Park. This statue can also be seen on the 5,000-ruble banknote.

The best way to explore Khabarovsk is on foot, beginning at Lenin Square and working your way towards the banks of the Amur River. The two main boulevards, Amursky and Ussuriisky, run parallel to each other. The architecture on Lenin and Serysheva streets, with its mostly Stalin-era structures, differs from the beautiful pre-revolutionary buildings on ul. Muravieva-Amurskogo. The Amursky and Ussuriisky boulevards did not exist until the mid-1960s.

Source: Shutterstock/Legion-Media

Khabarovsk is not a typical Russian city along the Trans-Siberian Railway. The unusual fusion of Russian and Chinese cultures is felt in the food, culture and even lifestyle of its residents. Japanese touches complement this picture in the form of blossoming cherry trees and cars with steering wheels on the right hand side. That Khabarovsk has such a strong Asian influence should not seem surprising, as the city is located only 17 kilometers from the state border with China. The nearest Chinese settlement, Fuyuan, is 65 kilometers down the river from Khabarovsk.

Khabarovsk’s gem is its picturesque river embankment and the Amursky rail and road bridge, which is also depicted on the 5,000-ruble banknote. Just like the Eiffel Tower, this bridge won the gold medal of the World Exhibition in Paris in the early 20 th  century.

Khabarovsk's museums

Khabarovsk became famous during the Soviet period for a popular song about border guards that stand on the "high banks of the Amur" and protect the motherland. It is not hard to find old cannons on display in the city that were fired during the Russo-Japanese War.

At the present time Khabarovsk is the headquarters of Russia’s Far Eastern Military District.

The Military Historical Museum of the Far Eastern Military District depicts in great detail everything you ever wanted to know about the formation and development of the army in the Far East. Models of weapons from different years are exhibited over the museum’s 13 halls and heavy military equipment is placed in the courtyard of an observation deck. The museum itself is located in a historic building right on the bank of the Amur River.

The Far Eastern Art Museum, also known as the "Far East Tretyakov Gallery" features original works of ancient Russian art, as well as local artists from the Amur Region. Among the artists on display are Ivan Aivazovsky, Ivan Shishkin, Ilya Repin, Vasily Surikov, Isaak Levitan, Alexander Benois, Apollinaris Vasnetsov and Mikhail Vrubel. Many of these works of art came to the Far East from museums in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

The Khabarovsk Regional Museum holds collections of flora and fauna, ethnography exhibits of indigenous peoples and Slavic settlers, and displays by paleontologists and geologists that tell the city’s story from its foundation. The only archaeological museum in the Far East is the Okladnikov Museum, which features 120,000 ancient artifacts pertaining to the Amur Region.

For those traveling with children, Khabarovsk has special kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium featuring fresh water fish of the Amur River basin, as well as the Gaidar Amusement Park and the Khabarovsk State Circus.

Source: TASS/Alexander Savchenko

A living museum of Far Eastern flora can be found at the Khabarovsk Arboretum, established as an experimental laboratory in 1896. It has collected about 300 plant species that grow in the Ussuri taiga as well as those from the Himalayas, Central Asia and North America.

Khabarovsk is known for its parks such as Dynamo or Yuri Gagarin Park. The Central Park of Culture and Relaxation is perfect for taking leisurely strolls and leads to the river station located within the park, where you can take a boat ride on the Amur River. Especially memorable is taking a walk along the river at night, when Khabarovsk is illuminated by hundreds of colored lights. In the park there is also an observation deck that offers a spectacular view of the Amur.

The cultural center of the Far East

Source: RIA Novosti/Ruslan Krivobok

The oldest Orthodox Church in Khabarovsk is a Church of St. Innocentius  of Irkutsk, erected in 1870 in honor of the patron saint of Siberia and the Far East. The impressive Holy Transfiguration Cathedral (its height with golden domes is 95 meters), built from the donations of inhabitants of the region, is the third largest temple in Russia after Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral and St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg.

Several major theaters operate in Khabarovsk, which is often called the cultural center of the Far East. These include the Khabarovsk Regional Musical Theater performing classic operetta and musical comedy, and the Regional Drama Theatre featuring international and domestic classics. There is also the Triad professional mime theater, which offers unusual performances in interesting interiors. 

Why you should climb the Khabarovsk cliff

Khabarovsk is hot and humid in the summer with temperatures reaching 30 C and cold and dry in the winter with the average temperature being -24 C. However, the temperatures often drop below -30, making Khabarovsk the coldest city with a population of 500,000 or more in the world. There are massive ice sculptures on Lenin Square from January until the spring thaw in April as part of the annual Amur Crystal and Ice Fantasy festivals. City Day, celebrated on the last Saturday of May, is a good reason to visit Khabarovsk at the beginning of summer.

No matter the season, if it is clear, then climb the Khabarovsk cliff (ul. Shevchenko 15), a true symbol of the city. A famous building was constructed here on a rocky promontory 70 years ago by an architect named Starikov. At first it was a station for military observation, later becoming a rescue station. After the building was transferred to Khabarovsk Central Park of Culture and Recreation, a viewing platform was added that now offers the best panoramic views of the Amur River. Take a selfie here with a view of the Amur River at the monument to Count Muravyov-Amursky.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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