I understand that the required dimensions for carry on bags is 22 x 14 x 9. Total dimensions of 45 inches. The carry on we've been using for travel in US is 22 1/2 X 15 x7 making it less than 45 inches total. We love that bag! Do you think we'd be OK bring it as our carry on to Italy?
Thanks for all the great comments on this forum!
The best way to determine whether you can take your bag as a carry-on is to check the airline’s carry on policy. Many of them will have both dimensions and weight listed. Based on that information, you can determine whether your bag fits the criteria. I have a 22-in suitcase that I have used in Europe in the past when traveling business class. Sometimes I could take it on, sometimes not. I know for Lufthansa in particular, they are strict. I wanted to carry on, so I bought a new bag. Even then, Lufthansa measured and weighed it. I was under the weight limit because in the past, even with business class, Lufthansa has made me check the bag.
Not all airlines consider overall measurements. If it doesn't fit in their measure box, it gets checked. Here is a comprehensive guide per airline https://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-bags/airline-carry-on-luggage-size-guide
Not ok, you have to follow the rules of the specific airline you decided to buy the ticket with.
You need to think in centimeters—-that is what European airlines use. For most it is 55 cm, which is 21.6 inches, not 22”. So your bag at 22.5 inches will not fit in the sizer, if they use one.
British Airways uses 56 cm, which is a tad over 22”.
sheila, we've all seen people get away with carrying on all sorts of oversize things all the time. But you have to ask yourself, "do you feel lucky?" Nothing anybody can tell you here will give you permission to break the rules or give you a free pass if they decide to check you.
I agree with everyone here - the only thing I'll mention is whether the bag is hard or soft sided makes a difference. A hard suitcase that is outside the size will always be too big and is easily measured. You have a little more leeway with a soft bag.
I have an old version RS "Convertible Carry-On" bag and you always have the option to take out a bulky item or two like a jacket just to make sure it clears the depth restriction at the critical moments at the gate. Aside from Ryan Air I've never had anyone really test the bag in detail - mostly flying BA - but it something to keep in mind.
Good luck,
=Tod
Thanks everyone! Will buy another carry on bag. Don't want to take a chance that we would have to check it. The carry on has meds and other personal items I don't want to check.
Can't wait for our trip to Florence and Tuscany!
And if you happen to be flying United, it may not be a problem at all. They have intentionally removed all sizers from their gate areas. And I have personally seen that their sizers near checkin stations are quite intentionally larger than their stated dimensions.
All very airline dependent.
