Carry-On Luggage Size Comparison | Airline Cabin Bag Limits
Carry-On Luggage Size Comparison (Cabin Bag Limits)
Airline carry-on rules vary by carrier, route and ticket type. This page compares common cabin bag size limits (and typical personal item sizes) so you can quickly sense-check whether your bag is likely to fit. Always confirm your airline’s current rules before you fly.
📏 Quick carry-on size comparison
| Category / example airlines | Typical cabin bag size | Typical personal item size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Australia “standard cabin bag” (common example format) |
56 × 36 × 23 cm (≈ 22 × 14 × 9 in) |
Varies (often “small bag under seat”) size may be enforced separately |
Very common size for AU domestic/international. Weight rules vary by fare. |
|
USA/Canada “major airline” style (common example format) |
22 × 14 × 9 in (≈ 56 × 35 × 23 cm) |
Personal item typically allowed (often a small backpack/handbag) |
Often expressed in inches. Some airlines use “linear inches” (L+W+H). |
|
IATA “general guide” (industry guideline) |
56 × 45 × 25 cm (≈ 22 × 18 × 10 in) |
Not specified (varies) | A broad reference point only — airlines may be smaller. |
|
EU/UK low-cost “10kg cabin bag” style (common example format) |
55 × 40 × 20 cm | Often around 40 × 30 × 20 cm | Larger cabin bag may require “priority/upgrade”. Personal item often strictly measured. |
|
Under-seat only (basic fares) (common on many low-cost carriers) |
No overhead bag included unless upgraded |
A single small bag that fits under the seat | If your “personal item” is too big, it may be charged and checked at the gate. |
🧳 How to measure your bag (avoid surprises)
- Include wheels and handles in your measurement — that’s what airlines typically check.
- Measure the largest points (hard shells, side pockets, expanders, feet, and trolley handles).
- If your bag can expand, measure it at maximum expansion (some airlines check that).
- When in doubt, aim slightly under the limit to allow for bulges and packing.
⚖️ Carry-on weight limits: what to know
Some airlines focus mostly on size, others enforce weight strictly, and many do both. Weight limits commonly range from about 5–10 kg on some carriers, while others allow more depending on cabin class.
If you travel with tech or heavy items, check your airline’s rules early — it’s easy to exceed carry-on weight even with a small cabin bag.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Is “22 × 14 × 9 inches” the same as “56 × 36 × 23 cm”?
They’re close, but conversions can differ slightly due to rounding and how airlines define each side.
Always rely on the airline’s published dimensions.
Do airlines measure “linear inches”?
Some do (length + width + height). Others enforce a strict 3-number dimension limit.
What counts as a personal item?
Typically a small bag like a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack that fits fully under the seat in front of you.
View Luggage Size Chart (Carry-On vs Checked) →
Disclaimer: This page provides general information only. Airline baggage size and weight limits vary by carrier, route, aircraft, cabin class, membership status, and fare type, and they can change at any time. Measurements shown are common examples and may not match your specific flight. This information is not travel, legal, or contractual advice and must not be relied upon for compliance with airline policies. You are solely responsible for confirming current baggage rules directly with your airline before travel. This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any airline, airport, or standards body.