Hey Lykkers, flying has become a regular part of life for many of us, but have you ever had a problem at the airport because your carry-on didn't meet the size requirements?

It can be frustrating—having to rush to repack or leave behind things you wanted to bring. That's why understanding the luggage size policies of different airlines is so important.

This guide is here to help you breeze through your travels without the hassle, making sure you're always ready to board!

Common Airline Luggage Size Standards

When it comes to major airlines like China Eastern, Air China, and China Southern, the rules are pretty similar. Most of these airlines allow carry-on bags with dimensions up to 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm, meaning the total sum of the three sides can't exceed 115 cm. This is roughly the size of a standard 20-inch suitcase, so if you're flying with one of these airlines in economy class, you can bring this size bag onboard without worrying about checking it in.

This size is carefully designed to fit comfortably in the overhead compartments, ensuring there's enough space for everyone's luggage while keeping things safe during the flight. You won't need to stress about your bag shifting around and causing issues. Just make sure your suitcase fits these dimensions and you're good to go!

Smaller Airlines Have Special Rules

Now, smaller airlines or private carriers often have different rules that you should keep in mind. For example, if you're flying with Beibu Gulf Airlines and you're in economy class, your carry-on can't exceed 20 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm, with the total dimension not going beyond 90 cm. This means your usual 20-inch bag won't fit in the cabin, and you'll need a smaller bag, around 14 inches.

On the other hand, if you're flying business class, you can bring two carry-ons, each measuring up to 20 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm. This is closer to the size allowance of the bigger airlines. So, make sure to check the baggage rules for your specific ticket type, as they can vary significantly.

Measuring Luggage Correctly

So now we know the rules, but how do we measure our luggage? This is where things can get a bit tricky. Most airlines measure your luggage excluding wheels, handles, and other protruding parts. For example, if you have a bag labeled as a 20-inch suitcase and its body measurements are 50 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm, with wheels at 3 cm and a handle at 2 cm, the total measurement would be 50 + 35 + 20 = 105 cm, which fits the 115 cm requirement.

However, if you include the wheels and handle, the measurement becomes 55 + 40 + 25 = 120 cm, which exceeds the allowed size. So, always check how your luggage is measured and double-check the dimensions yourself before you head to the airport.

Weight Limits Matter Too

Besides size, the weight of your carry-on is another thing to watch out for. Most domestic flights allow a carry-on that weighs no more than 5 kg for economy class, with a little more leeway in first or business class (8-10 kg). For international flights, the limit is usually between 7-10 kg.

For example, if you're flying domestic with China Eastern in economy, you can only carry one bag weighing up to 5 kg. If it's heavier, you might be asked to pay extra fees or repack your items on the spot. And if you're flying internationally, the weight limit might be a bit more forgiving, but don't assume there's no limit. Overweight bags can result in expensive fees, sometimes even more than the cost of your ticket! It's always a good idea to bring a small luggage scale to keep your bag within the weight limits.

What Happens If Your Bag Is Too Big or Heavy?

Sometimes, despite all the preparation, we might end up with an oversized or overweight bag. Don't worry, there's a process in place at most airports to handle this. If you're caught with an oversized or overweight carry-on at the gate, airport staff will usually first remind you about the rules. If it's just a minor issue, you might be able to pay a small extra fee and check in your bag.

However, if the bag is significantly over the limit, you'll need to take it to the oversized luggage section and re-check it. This could mean your bag might not even make it on your flight and you'll have to wait for it to arrive on a later flight, which could cause delays and extra hassle. To avoid this, it's always best to check your luggage in advance and make sure it meets the rules.

Choosing the Right Luggage

After learning all about luggage regulations, you might be wondering what kind of suitcase is best for your travels. For short trips, a small 16-18 inch cabin bag should be enough. It's lightweight and easy to carry. For longer trips, a standard 20-inch suitcase is ideal as it can fit all the essentials like clothes, toiletries, and electronics.

When it comes to materials, polycarbonate (PC) suitcases are durable and lightweight, which makes them a good choice for most people. If you need something more robust, go for an aluminum case, but keep in mind it's a bit heavier. Soft-sided suitcases are more flexible for packing but offer less protection for your belongings. Also, make sure your bag has four spinner wheels for smooth and quiet movement, a sturdy telescopic handle, and a TSA lock for international travel.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, Lykkers—everything you need to know about carry-on luggage size, weight limits, and how to measure your bag correctly. Whether you're flying with a major airline or a smaller carrier, knowing these rules can save you a lot of hassle and prevent unnecessary fees. Always remember to check your airline's baggage policies before your flight to make sure you're ready to board without any last-minute surprises. Safe travels and happy flying!