When you’re flying to your destination, there are only certain things that you can take with you on the plane. A small bag is usually about all that you can take, and the bag often must be within certain size requirements. Before you begin shopping for the bag that you want to take, there are a few tips that you can follow to ensure that you get something large enough for all the belongings that you’ll have and that will fit in the overhead compartment.
As you begin your search for any type of carry on luggage, think about the necessities for yourself and your family on the flight. You should also consider packing an outfit just in case your other luggage gets lost. If you have children, then you want to get a bag that is large enough for any diapers and formula for a baby or snacks and activities for older children. Find out what you’re allowed to have on the plane before you begin packing as you don’t want to take something that isn’t allowed and must get your bag checked. If you know that you’re going to be flying for several hours, then you might want to pack something for yourself to do to stay occupied or any medications that you know that you’re going to need to take while you’re on the plane.
Look on the airline’s website to find out the exact dimensions of the bag that you’re allowed to have on board and how many bags you’re allowed to have with you. There are usually detailed measurements that you must abide by in order to keep a bag with you on the plane. If it’s too large, then you’re going to have to include it with your other luggage. Keep in mind that the handle and the wheels are often included in the measurements, so you might want to consider getting a bag that doesn’t have these features so that you have more usable space. Even if there are dimensions listed on the bag, you want to measure it yourself as some measurements could be on the smaller side.
If you plan on pulling your bag behind you as you walk through the airport, then you’re going to want wheels that easily turn. Consider four wheels on your bag as this will give you a better turning radius, making it easier to get through crowded areas. This also makes it easier to completely roll the bag instead of only having two wheels and pushing it at times.
Check the interior of the bag to see how many compartments it has that you can use for smaller items that you’re going to need on the plane. Square corners are often more efficient for packing items inside the bag instead of those that have curved corners. Any compartments on the bag should be made into the bag instead of protruding on the exterior. Make sure you weigh the bag with everything inside. There are strict requirements about the weight of the bag that you carry on the plane along with the dimensions.