This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here.
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.
For our European friends, the dimensions for 22″ x 14″ x 9″ luggage in cm are 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86.
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 2024.
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.
Having tested the Monos Carry-On Pro, I can attest to its impressive performance. 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”, the Nomatic Navigator Carry-on 37L not only meets the size allowance of most major domestic airlines but also ranks among the best carry-on luggage in 2024. 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 that expands to 45 L for extra packing space when needed.
The Makrolon polycarbonate shell protects your belongings, while a separate compartment keeps your laptop, tech, and documents organized and easy to reach.
Thule Subterra 22-Inch Wheeled Carry-On
We like the unique design of the Thule Subterra 22-inch Wheeled Carry-On. While some of the features are similar to those found on most bags in this list, there are some elements that set it apart.
First, it combines a softside duffel silhouette with a molded polycarbonate back panel into a durable, water-resistant hybrid construction that’s both stylish and sporty. Its V-tubing telescoping handle is built into the back panel to maximize packing space, and two oversized wheels instead of four smaller ones make it easier to roll over rough terrain.
An easily accessible front compartment with a two-way zipper provides convenient on-the-go access to essential items.
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.
Zero Halliburton Geo Aluminum International Carry-On Case
If you’re in search of a suitcase that can handle anything while meeting the strict limitations set by most international airlines and looking good while doing so, we recommend Zero Halliburton’s International Carry-On Case.
Complementing its rugged, luxe exterior is a stain-resistant, lined interior divided into two zip compartments for easy, organized packing. Four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle make the 22-inch suitcase easy to maneuver over all types of surfaces, while TSA-approved locks and a neoprene gasket seal ensure both peace of mind and protection for your belongings.