Choosing the right carry-on bag is one of the most important travel decisions you'll make. The wrong bag causes stress at the gate, sore shoulders, and disorganised packing. Here's exactly what to look for.
Airline Size Requirements
Every airline has different carry-on size limits. Most Australian and international carriers allow approximately 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (7kg) for cabin baggage. Always check your specific airline before buying — budget airlines like Jetstar and Scoot are stricter than Qantas or Singapore Airlines.
Types of Carry-On Bags
- Backpacks — hands-free, fit under seats, great for transit days. The Smart Expandable Carry-On Backpack expands for longer trips and compresses for short ones.
- Tote bags — slim, stylish, great for day trips. The LiteTrek Tote Bag fits as an underseat personal item on most flights.
- Duffel bags — flexible shape fits into odd overhead bin spaces. The Folding Weekender Duffle Bag folds flat when empty.
Key Features to Look For
- Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Multiple exterior pockets for quick-access items
- Water-resistant material
- Lightweight (under 1kg empty)
- Luggage strap to slide over suitcase handle
Don't Get Caught Overweight
Even carry-on bags can exceed limits, especially on low-cost carriers. Always weigh with the PackCheck™ Luggage Scale before heading to the airport, and secure your suitcase with a CodeSafe™ Luggage Strap.