Tackling Carry-On Baggage Rules

How Brands Are Tackling Carry-On Baggage Rules 

In response to the inconsistency in size restrictions, innovative luggage brands are creating carry-on bags precisely tailored to specific airline policies, allowing travelers to purchase luggage with complete confidence that it will comply with their preferred carrier's regulations.  

Air travel regulations are constantly changing, with airlines enforcing stricter carry-on baggage rules as they look to monetize the previously 'free' luggage allowance permitted in the cabin – typically one bag in the overhead compartment and a smaller personal item under the seat.

Carry-On Regulations and Restrictions

One of the hardest parts of air travel is dealing with different airline cabin bag rules. What is allowed on one flight may be banned on another. 

For instance, budget carrier Ryanair permits personal items of just 40 x 20 x 25 cm, while British Airways allows considerably larger carry-ons up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm. In the U.S., carry-on policies differ by airline, but a typical maximum size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.

Travelers who fail to comply with these varied regulations face hefty fees for oversized bags, sometimes paying more in penalties than the cost of their ticket, making careful planning and appropriate luggage selection more important than ever before.

This inconsistency leads many travelers to buy multiple bags for different airlines to avoid extra fees, creating unnecessary expenses, stress at boarding and complicating packing for budget-conscious travelers.

1. Airline-Specific Carry-On Bags 

In response to the inconsistency in size restrictions, innovative luggage brands are creating carry-on bags precisely tailored to specific airline policies, allowing travelers to purchase luggage with complete confidence that it will comply with their preferred carrier's regulations.  

Consumers can now find Ryanair-approved bags that are exactly 40 x 20 x 25 cm or options built to EasyJet's 45 x 36 x 20 cm limits, with these targeted products giving travelers peace of mind. 

This airline-specific approach appeals particularly to frequent flyers who typically use the same airline and need reliability and consistency every trip, eliminating the anxiety of wondering whether their bag will be accepted on board. This approach also creates a clear value proposition for manufacturers - eliminating confusion and surprise fees for customers. 

2. Adaptable Carry-On Designs 

Instead of creating bags for just one airline, some brands are making versatile bags with adjustable features that can meet the needs of different airlines. These carry-on solutions can shrink or expand to flex to different airline regulations, with some featuring fold-away compartments or removable sections that allow travelers to adjust their bags on the go. 

Other brands are producing convertible options that shift between backpack, roller and duffel form, offering flexibility for travelers who want their luggage to serve multiple purposes throughout their journey. This adaptability is particularly helpful for international travelers using multiple carriers on a single trip, who would otherwise need to bring several different bags to comply with each airline's unique restrictions. 

3. Built-In Luggage Scale  

As airlines tighten both size and weight limits, brands are developing bags with built-in weighing scales that help passengers avoid crossing the allowed weight limit. These luggage solutions enable travelers to distribute weight more effectively between their bags or make necessary adjustments before reaching the check-in counter, preventing unexpected excess weight charges. 

4. Better Materials 

Carry-on luggage must be not only compact but also light. Brands are increasingly using materials like polycarbonate, aerospace-grade aluminum and soft-shell options to create durable yet ultra-light bags. These materials protect your belongings without eating into weight allowances.   

PC (polycarbonate) is a premium luggage material known for its durability and resistance to impact. Most major brands want to use it to protect the items inside the suitcase, as it can withstand rough baggage handling. PC is strong and lightweight, making it ideal for protecting items during travel. Soft-sided luggage offers travelers a significant advantage over rigid suitcases when it comes to squeezing as much as possible into a particular carry-on size. 

5. Under-Seat Space 

With increasing attention on personal item size restrictions – which typically include handbags, small backpacks, or laptop bags that must fit under the seat in front of you. These are designed for personal items and often feature multiple compartments, expandable sections, and easy-access pockets that maximize storage capacity. Some systems allow the personal item to detach from the main carry-on bag when needed, giving travelers more flexibility while staying compliant with regulations. 

The Future of Carry-On Innovation 

As airline restrictions evolve, luggage manufacturers and brands are developing innovative solutions. Future smart luggage may feature digital displays for real-time compliance, materials that adjust to size restrictions, and technology to help travelers navigate complex regulations. These innovations reduce stress and surprise fees, ensuring smoother journeys. For brands, airline restrictions offer opportunities to understand customer needs and design effective solutions.