Choosing a Carry-On Bag: Size, Style and Features
The best carry-on is the one that fits your airlines, your body and your trips. Here is what to weigh.
Start with size limits
Airlines set their own size and weight limits, and budget carriers can be stricter. Measure the bag including wheels and handles and compare with the rules for every airline on your itinerary.
If you fly several carriers, size to the strictest.
Backpack, roller or duffel
Backpacks are easier on stairs and cobblestones; rollers save your shoulders in long airports; duffels are flexible and light. Pick the one that matches your typical trips.
Soft-sided bags tend to squeeze into tight spaces while hard shells protect fragile items.
Features that matter
- Smooth zippers and sturdy handles.
- A quick-access pocket for documents.
- Compression straps and a clamshell opening.
- A weight you can carry comfortably when empty.
Then see how to pack a carry-on and the pillar guide.
Key takeaways
- Size to your strictest airline.
- Match bag style to your trips.
- Weigh the empty bag.
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