Bag News: Airline Group Wants to Shrink Your Carry-On. We’ve Got Solutions
Sorry: your bag might be too small. (Photo: Thinkstock)
Get ready to shop for a new suitcase. On Tuesday, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) — the largest airline association in the world — revealed that your carry-on bag is most likely too big.
The IATA consulted with Boeing and Airbus in an effort to solve the problem of crowded overhead bins.
The solution? Smaller bags.
Related: 10 Best Rolling Carry-On Bags According to the Internet
Your new bag might have a label like this. (Photo: IATA)
Tom Windmuller, IATA’s senior vice president for airport, passenger, cargo and security, revealed the ideal dimensions for a rolling suitcase: 55 x 35 x 20 cm (or 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches)
This new standard would allow each person on a 120-passenger plane to fit their bag in the overhead.
As part of the initiative, the IATA has also been coordinating with luggage manufacturers, which will be rolling out new bags by the end of the year. Suitcases that meet the strict specifications will come with a tag or label that says “IATA Cabin OK.” Old bags won’t get the label.
According to the IATA, a number of major airline carriers support the initiative and plan to adopt the new size guidelines.
In light of the announcement, Yahoo Travel went in search of luggage that would fit the new dimensions. And there’s good news for travelers. There are quite a few affordable — and stylish — options out there.
Travel Select Amsterdam 21"
(Photo: Target)
Travel Select’s expandable upright carry-on is carried by stores like Target and has a retractable push-button handle and inline skate wheels. And the price isn’t bad either: $37.99.
Protege Monticello 21" Upright Carry-On
(Photo: Walmart)
The Protege is a steal at Walmart at just $19. Plus it’s got the telescoping handle you want — and self-mending zippers.
American Flyer South West Collection 21" Upright Spinner
(Photo: ebags)
The American Flyer ($69.99) comes in cobalt blue and red and has four spinner wheels, which makes it perfect for zooming through the airport.
Luxe 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Luggage
(Photo: Vistaprint)
Sleek and pared down, the Luxe 21" Expandable Carry-On is a great find from Vistaprint and is loaded with pockets. The price starts at just $41.91 and goes down, based on the number that you buy.
Skyway Epic 21-Inch 2-wheel Expandable Carry-on
(Photo: ebags)
Skyway’s durable 21-inch carry-on expands for extra space, but keep it in its smallest size to pass the new restrictions. Pricetag? $44.99.
American Tourister Luggage, Disney’s Frozen 18-in. Wheeled Carry-On
(Photo: Kohl’s)
This American Tourister is for the kids, and at just $32, there’s no reason they can’t bring their bag onboard, too!
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