The short answer is 22" (L) x 14" (W) x 10" (H). The long answer is it depends. Carry-on luggage size regulations can vary depending on the airline, the specific aircraft you're flying on, and whether you are flying domestically or internationally. However, there are some standard guidelines that many airlines adhere to.

If you are flying within the United States, you should be just fine with carry-on bags that are no larger than 22 inches (56 cm) in length, 14 inches (36 cm) in width, and 9 inches (23 cm) in depth. If you are measuring at home, these dimensions DO include the wheels and handles of the bag. With that said, carry-on luggage size regulations may, and frequently do, change over time. Therefore, it's essential to check with the specific airline you plan to fly with for the most up-to-date information on their carry-on size limits. For example, "the big three" (American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines) all recently reduced the size of carry-on luggage they allow from 22" x 15" x 9" down to 22" x 14" x 9". These changes may leave you in need of new, smaller carry-on luggage. If you are in the market for a new carry-on, we recommend the Duravo Expandable International Carry-On, sized just right for domestic and most international travel.

While most airlines are getting stricter with their carry-on luggage size policies, Allegiant Airlines recently went in the other direction and increased their carry-on size limits. Their allowable maximum size of a carry-on is now 22" x 16" x 10". As of September of 2023, Southwest Airlines still has the friendliest carry-on policy, allowing carry-on bags up to 24" x 16" x 10".

To make things even more confusing, some airlines enforce a linear size limit for carry-ons, which is the combination of all three dimensions added together. For example, a carry-on piece sized 22" x 16" x 10" would have a linear size of 48".   

As you can see, the rules vary greatly and change surprisingly often. We recommend checking with your specific airline, especially for smaller regional or international flights. We also recommend measuring your bag. And don't assume luggage marketed as "carry-on" will automatically meet current size restrictions. A quick glance at the carry-on luggage for sale online shows many options with sizes that well exceed the guidelines above. Lastly, airlines may have weight limits for carry-on luggage, typically 15-40 pounds. To ensure your carry-on bag meets all of the airline's requirements, you should check their official website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date information on size and weight restrictions. Packing within these guidelines will help you avoid additional fees and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Here is a quick carry-on size limit guide with links to the current carry-on size guidelines for each of the major U.S. airlines:

1. American Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. (Link to current American Airlines Carry-On Luggage policy)
2. Delta Air Lines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. (Link to current Delta Carry-On Luggage policy)
3. United Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. (Link to current United Airlines Carry-On Luggage policy)
4. Southwest Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (25 x 41 x 61 cm), including wheels and handles. (Link to current Southwest Carry-On Luggage policy)
5. JetBlue Airways: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including wheels and handles. (Link to current JetBlue Carry-On Luggage policy)

Again, these guidelines are subject to change, and airlines may have specific rules for different fare classes or international flights. Additionally, some smaller regional airlines may have other size limits, so when in doubt, please check the airline's official website or contact their customer service for the most current information before your flight. Safe travels from Duravo!