Carry-on dimensions 2026 by airline + tips | ByMetz
- , by Miquell Hellings
- 6 min read
How big can your carry-on be on the plane? It differs per airline and sometimes by fare type. Pick the wrong size or exceed the weight and you’ll often pay on the spot. Below you’ll find a clear overview of carry-on dimensions by airline, what the IATA guideline does and doesn’t mean, the liquid rules, and quick product picks that fit popular carriers. Looking for a matching trolley right away? Check our carry-on suitcases.
IATA size vs rules per airline
You often hear about the IATA size 55 x 35 x 20 cm. Treat this as a guideline, not a global standard. In practice, each airline sets its own dimensions, weights and exceptions. Some allow 55 x 35 x 25 cm or 55 x 40 x 20 cm as the maximum for your cabin suitcase, while others focus mainly on a free personal item under the seat such as 40 x 30 x 20 cm. Always note that dimensions include wheels and handles. Weight also varies: some airlines strictly check 7–10 kg, others use a combined weight for suitcase plus accessory, or have no hard limit but require you to lift your bag into the overhead bin yourself. Flying out and back with different airlines, or on light/basic fares? Always recheck the conditions. The smallest size and lowest weight on your route determine what really works. Prefer a softer bag or backpack that gives a little in the overhead bin? Explore our carry-on backpacks.
Carry-on dimensions by airline
The sizes below are indicative and can vary by fare or route. Always check your airline’s latest rules shortly before departure. Want to know specifically which airlines allow 40 x 30 x 20 cm for the free item? See the overview of carry-on rules by airline (40 x 30 x 20).
| Airline | Free personal item (under seat) | Cabin trolley | Max weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| KLM | 40 x 30 x 15 cm | 55 x 35 x 25 cm | 12 kg Economy, 18 kg Business (total) |
| Transavia | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 35 x 25 cm (paid/priority) | No fixed limit, must lift it yourself |
| Ryanair | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Priority or 10 kg option) | 10 kg for the trolley |
| easyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm | 56 x 45 x 25 cm (paid) | Up to 15 kg for large cabin bag |
| TUI fly | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm | Usually up to 10 kg, depending on fare |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm (Wizz Priority) | 10 kg for the trolley |
Tip: if you fly multiple airlines on one ticket, stick to the smallest size and the strictest weight. Unsure if your case fits? Measure at home including wheels and weigh with a luggage scale.
Liquid rules in carry-on
The familiar 100 ml rule still applies at many airports: liquids, gels and creams in containers of up to 100 ml, together in one resealable 1‑liter bag per person. This also includes liquid make-up, pastes and spreadable foods. Exceptions exist for baby food, medicines and dietary food, often with documentation or a prescription. Tax-free liquids are allowed in the sealed purchase bag with receipt.
Important in 2026: more airports are using advanced scanners, which may relax rules. This isn’t universal and can differ by airport and country. So you may face looser limits outbound than inbound, or vice versa. The safest option is still to pack to the 100 ml rule unless both your departure and return airports clearly communicate a looser policy.
Practical tips: place your liquids and electronics on top so you can move quickly at security. Drink bottles are allowed but empty them before screening. Use 100 ml refill bottles and choose solid cosmetics where possible to save space. Want more order in your bag or case? Work with packing cubes for carry-on. Handy extras include TSA locks, luggage tags and compression bags.
Choose the right size: quick product picks
- Free under‑seat size 40 x 30 x 20 cm: choose a compact bag within 40 x 30 x 20 cm. Ideal as free carry‑on with Transavia, Ryanair, TUI, Vueling and Wizz Air. See our selection carry‑on 40 x 30 x 20.
- Standard cabin suitcase size 55 x 40 x 20–23 cm: a hard or soft trolley within these sizes suits many European airlines; an expand feature gives extra leeway for the return trip.
- Flexible travel with backpack 55 x 40 x 20 cm, expandable to 55 x 40 x 25 cm: ideal if you want cabin dimensions with a bit of extra wiggle room.
Prefer a safe bet within the most accepted 55 cm format? Browse our Worldpack 55 cm carry‑on selection.
Need personal advice on suitcase sizes or a cabin size for your airline and fare? Via WhatsApp or in our Eindhoven store we’ll help you right away. Ordering online? Enjoy fast insured shipping and a 14‑day return window.
Frequently asked questions
How big can carry-on be on a plane?
There’s no single carry‑on size for all airlines. Common trolley sizes are 55 x 35 x 25 cm or 55 x 40 x 20 cm. The free personal item under the seat is often 40 x 30 x 20 cm. Always check your airline’s current dimensions.
What are the maximum carry-on dimensions in 2026?
Maximum dimensions vary by airline and sometimes by fare. Aim for 55 x 35 x 25 cm or 55 x 40 x 20 cm for a cabin suitcase, and 40 x 30 x 20 cm for an under‑seat bag. Watch for exceptions on light/basic fares and check the rules shortly before departure.
Is 55 cm carry-on?
Yes, if the total dimensions meet the requirements, such as 55 x 35 x 25 cm or 55 x 40 x 20 cm. A 55 cm longest side is allowed with many airlines, provided width and depth also fit and the weight stays within the limit.
Is a backpack also carry-on?
Yes. A backpack counts as carry‑on or as a personal item depending on its size. A compact 40 x 30 x 20 cm backpack fits under the seat. A larger 55 x 40 x 20 cm backpack is cabin baggage. Want a bag guaranteed to fit under the seat? Check our underseaters (fits under the seat).