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A carry-on suitcase is a small piece of luggage you can bring into the airplane cabin. But not every small suitcase meets airline requirements. Size and weight limits vary by airline, and what you're allowed to bring on board also depends on your fare.
What Size Carry-On Suitcase Should You Choose?
One common carry-on size is 55 × 40 × 20 cm. Suitcases that are 23 or 25 cm deep may also be allowed, but not on every flight. Check the full exterior dimensions, including wheels, handles, and any other protruding parts. Some airlines have separate allowances for these features.
There are also smaller suitcases designed to fit under the seat, including models measuring 40 × 30 × 20 cm. You can find options like these among our extra-small XS suitcases.
Many airlines distinguish between a small personal item that fits under the seat and a larger carry-on for the overhead bin. Budget airlines often charge extra for the latter. Before buying, check the baggage allowance for your flight and fare. If you regularly fly with different airlines, consider the strictest limits on your usual routes.
If the suitcase is expandable, check its dimensions both before and after expansion. Just a few extra centimeters could put it over the allowed size.
Weight and Capacity
The weight of your empty suitcase counts toward your airline's carry-on allowance. For example, if the limit is 8 kg and your suitcase weighs 2.5 kg, that leaves 5.5 kg for your belongings. When the weight limit is tight, even a few hundred grams can make a difference.
Suitcases with the same exterior dimensions can offer noticeably different amounts of packing space. Wheel housings and the telescopic handle mechanism take up some room inside. Capacity in liters is useful for comparing models, but the interior layout matters too. If you're packing extra shoes, a laptop, or bulky clothing, look at the shape of the compartments and where the dividers are placed.
Dividers and packing straps help keep your belongings in place. Pockets are handy for smaller items you might need during the trip, without having to rummage through everything else.
Hard-Shell or Softside Suitcase?
Hard-shell suitcases have a rigid exterior that helps protect your belongings from pressure. Common materials include polypropylene, polycarbonate, and ABS plastic. Each has different properties, while the weight and strength of the finished suitcase also depend on its construction.
Softside suitcases often have exterior pockets for documents, chargers, and other things you might need along the way. Keep in mind that filling those pockets increases the suitcase's overall dimensions. That matters when your bag is already close to the airline's size limit.
What Else Should You Look For?
A four-wheel spinner is easy to roll beside you across smooth airport floors. A two-wheel suitcase is usually pulled behind you at an angle. On many two-wheel models, the wheels are partially recessed into the case. This can be an advantage when every centimeter of exterior space counts.
Check that the telescopic handle extends smoothly and locks securely in place. The top and side carry handles matter too. You'll need to lift your suitcase into the overhead bin, carry it up stairs, and place it on luggage racks.
If you travel with a laptop, a separate quick-access compartment can come in handy. It lets you take out your device without opening the main compartment where your clothes are packed.