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Size matters. At least when it comes to carry-on bags. The good news is that a 22 x 14 x 9 luggage piece that you are able to lift into the overhead compartment is generally a safe bet on most domestic flights within the United States. The not-so-great news is that the one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work, as each airline has its own size and weight restrictions.
While you will definitely have to check your carrier’s specific policy before traveling, the most common size for carry-on luggage in the USA is 22″ x 14″ x 9″, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height), which includes the handle and the wheels. This limit ensures your bag will fit in the overhead compartment of all major domestic airlines, such as Delta, Southwest, Jet Blue, United Airlines, Allegiant Air, Hawaiian Airlines, or Alaska Airlines. With a few exceptions, notably Hawaiian, which limits cabin bags to 25 pounds (11 kg), most US domestic airlines don’t have carry-on luggage weight limits.
Compact enough to meet most airline size restrictions, yet spacious enough to fit everything you need for a few days of adventure, these smooth-rolling, carefully designed suitcases are what we consider to be the best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage in 2023.
Monos Carry-On Pro
The Monos Carry-On Pro packs up to five days’ worth of trip essentials into standard US carry-on dimensions and comes in a rainbow of tasteful colors. But that’s only the prelude to a long list of special details that make this suitcase unique.
To name but a few, the luxuriously lined interior paves the way to efficient packing with a built-in compression pad, as well as an anti-microbial laundry bag and two shoe pouches. The handsome exterior is marked by a front hardside compartment for storing your laptop and other small, quick-grab items. In addition to its chic, minimalist aesthetic, this premium suitcase is wrapped in unbreakable German polycarbonate and outfitted with butter-smooth rolling spinner wheels, offering the perfect blend of style, quality, and practicality.
Nomatic Navigator Carry-on 37L
Can’t decide between hard-sided or soft-sided carry-on luggage? With this badass-looking hybrid cabin bag, you can have both.
At 22” x 14” x 9”, not only does the Nomatic Navigator Carry-on 37L meet the size allowance of most major domestic airlines, but it comes with an expansion feature that increases the capacity to 45 L for extra packing space when needed. Built with business travelers and frequent fliers in mind, the two-wheeled rolling suitcase combines durable water-resistant materials with superb organization into a clean, streamlined package. The Makrolon polycarbonate shell protects your belonging, while a separate compartment keeps your laptop, tech, and documents organized and easy to reach.
MVST Select LS1 Polycarbonate Suitcase
While MVST Select is mainly known for its high-end yet fairly priced aluminum luggage, the brand’s LS1 Polycarbonate Suitcase is just as noteworthy. From the strong and sleek zipperless shell to the ultra-smooth 360° wheels, every aspect of this premium carry-on bag has been carefully designed for a seamless travel experience. The aluminum frame and corners provide the ultimate protection for your contents, a multi-stage telescopic handle makes it easy to maneuver and store when not in use, and double TSA locks add to the bag’s overall security.
Samsonite Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner
This 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on suitcase from Samsonite offers all the essential features and then some in an affordable package. A sturdy propylene shell keeps the bag modern and lightweight, while the four double-spinner wheels and retractable pull handle ensure a smooth ride.
The inside has various pockets and cross straps to organize and secure your gear, and there’s also a TSA-approved lock for additional peace of mind. However, what really makes the Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner shine is the integrated charging port, which allows you to insert a battery and power up your devices on the go. When you need room for souvenirs, the zippered expansion gives you an inch of extra space.
Briggs & Rilley ZDX 22” Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner
There’s a reason Briggs & Riley is a go-to brand for discerning frequent flyers. Crafted from 800-denier ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt, and abrasion, the ZDX 22” Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner is built to last and sized to meet most domestic airline carry-on size restrictions. It also moves like a dream on various types of surfaces, thanks to the four spinner wheels with metal ball bearings and the patented Outsider handle, which is not only comfortable but also placed on the outside of the suitcase to increase packing capacity.
Unlike other models in this list, this one has one roomy main compartment with an expander that provides up to 2.5 inches of additional space, as well as a bevy of organizational pockets both on the inside and outside to keep things neatly in place. Self-repairing YKK zippers, an effective compression system, and a lifetime guarantee round out the package.
