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Wole Femi Asaolu
- September 8, 2023
Ah, the dread of tiny overhead bins on airplanes, unplanned checked luggage fees, and being held up in long baggage check-in lines. Not a fan too, right? Fret not because, after careful consideration and countless trips, my team and I have curated a list of our best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage options that will make your travels a breeze.
And guess what?
Our selection features a range of options, from sleek and stylish designs to durable and practical choices for both international and domestic trips! Let’s get into it!
For my top picks for the best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage, I recommend the Away Carry-On if you prefer a suitcase, the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack for backpack lovers, and the Monos Metro Duffel for those who want a versatile option that’s suitable for work and travel. These three choices not only meet most airlines’ carry-on size requirements but are also lightweight, water-resistant, and durable enough to withstand frequent trips.
Tortuga
Best Backpack
Away
Best Suitcase
Monos
Best Duffel
Away Carry-On
Best Suitcase
If you’re not sold on the three bags mentioned above, don’t fret. There are plenty of other options available, including carry-on suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, underseaters, and even a weekender bag, that are perfect for travelers. Keep reading to discover these alternatives, and I’ll share my thoughts on why they’re fantastic carry-on bags.
Check out the full selection below:
The best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage in 2023
In a hurry? Here is a preview of the 12 best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on bags:
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (suitcases)
- Away The Carry-On
- Rockland Melbourne Hardside Carry-On
- Monos Carry-On Pro
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Compact Expandable Carry-On
- Briggs & Rilley ZDX Domestic Carry-on
- Rockland Fashion Expandable Luggage Set
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (backpack)
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (duffel, underseater & weekender)
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (suitcases)
In this discussion, I will be covering the best carry-ons, including both hard and soft suitcases that have dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches and are suitable for storage in the overhead compartment.
Away The Carry-On
Beyond its super stylish look, there’s no denying the quality, and even the hype around the Away Carry-on suitcase. The bag is made of a sturdy polycarbonate shell that can withstand rough handling such as being tossed into an overhead compartment or the trunk of a car. Additionally, its dimensions of 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches make it compatible with most major airlines’ cabin restrictions. This is why it rightfully earns a spot on the list of the best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on suitcase options out there! On top of that, the design is simple yet incredibly sleek, which is something I really like.
What we also like
I’m fond of its additional features, like a TSA-approved lock, a luggage tag, an interior compression system, and a clip-in pocketed panel that simplifies packing. But that’s not all. It also includes an ejectable USB port for charging on the go and a water-resistant and removable laundry bag for storing damp or dirty clothes.
What we don’t like
The criticisms commonly directed towards the Away luggage brand are the same criticisms I’ve always had with hard-shell suitcases – the exterior gets scratched or scuffed easily. A customer shared their experience, stating “The only issue I have is that, after the first trip, it has scuff marks and a deep scratch. Though I was able to wipe off most marks, there are several large black marks that just will not come off.” To prevent this from happening, I recommend avoiding bright-colored options and cleaning your bag regularly with a soft damp cloth, warm water, and mild soap.
Rockland Melbourne Carry-On
This popular Rockland suitcase is really cheap and stylish with many positive reviews on Amazon. At 20-inch, it easily fits into most airline overhead compartments, including United, American, Delta, Southwest, and Allegiant flights.
And despite its low price, the suitcase offers many modern features such as a hard-side clamshell design, a telescopic handle, and spinner wheels that spin at 360-degree angles.
What we also like
If you, like myself, tend to overpack, then you’ll appreciate the expandable storage feature of this luggage. You can add an extra two inches of space if needed.
Additionally, there are compression straps, an interior mesh zip pocket, and an elasticated pocket to help you keep your smaller items organized. And did I mention that this best carry-on luggage is priced under $70!
What we don’t like
If you only travel once or twice a year, this carry-on should suffice. But, if you plan on using it frequently, it may be wise to consider other options. The reason for this is that this hardside luggage is made from ABS plastic, a material that is not as durable as polycarbonate, and many customers have reported broken wheels and shell cracks, sometimes even on the first use.
Therefore, I would advise against checking this bag. But since you’ll be using this bag exclusively as a carry-on, it’ll help protect it from unnecessary bumps and impacts, which may extend its lifespan.
Monos Carry-On Pro
The Carry-on Pro guarantees that you won’t have to pay for checked baggage fees. It’s carry-on compliant and weighs 7.8 lbs, which means it’s easy to lift into overhead compartments or luggage racks without causing serious back strain.
Beyond that, I just love the organizational features of this bag. Its exterior has a built-in front compartment with three interior pockets that can accommodate a 15″ laptop, tablet, and other smaller items that are easily accessible during airport security. Inside, there are two compartments with a built-in compression pad for saving space, a laundry bag, and two shoe bags for a breezy organization.
What we also like
And you can trust that this hard shell luggage won’t bend and become unusable after a few trips. This is thanks to its smooth-rolling multi-directional spinner wheels and an impact-resistant German polycarbonate hardshell that can withstand rough handling on planes and in storage compartments. Plus, it is available in 10 beautiful colors, perfect for matching any outfit or mood – even for those who prefer minimalistic styles.
What we don’t like
Monos claim this 36L bag can accommodate items for 2-5 day trips, but reviews suggest it fits only 2-3 days, (possibly more if packed efficiently). Also, some customers have complained about how the front compartment takes away a significant amount of storage space from the main compartment, and the fact that you can’t expand the bag for more storage.
For instance, a customer stated that “the front compartment is almost useless as it only fits a slim laptop/tablet, charging cable, and barely anything else, not even a charger or battery pack”. As such, I would not recommend this carry-on if you want something with good storage space.
Another common complaint is that the suitcase easily develops scuff marks and stains on its exterior. To prevent this, I’d advise you to opt for darker shades rather than bright colors. Some users, such as Hannah Freedman of Insider, suggest using erasers to remove the marks.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Compact Expandable Carry-On
This little guy measures 20 x 14 x 9 inches and complies with most international airline carry-on restrictions, so you can breeze through security and hop on your flight without a hitch. And if you need a bit of extra room for souvenirs and such, it can expand up to 2 inches. Also, it comes highly recommended with over 9,200 global ratings from enthusiast Amazon buyers.
But wait, it gets better! The Maxlite 5 is crazy light, weighing only 5.4 pounds! I think that’s amazing because when you’re packing for a trip, you don’t want your suitcase to weigh too much and take up all of your precious weight allowance.
What we also like
This bag’s got a handle that works great for people of all heights, even if you’re a shorter traveler at 5’2″ or a taller one at 6’5″! Plus, the four double-spinner wheels make it a breeze to roll around, even on bumpy roads. So if you’re in a hurry to catch your flight, this suitcase won’t slow you down!
Plus, the fabric is really cool. It’s water-resistant and stain-resistant, which means you don’t have to worry about spills or rain ruining your stuff. That’s a huge plus in my book!
What we don’t like
I totally agree with what some of the reviews have said – the inside of this soft sided luggage could use some work in terms of organization. For a soft suitcase, there just aren’t enough internal or exterior pockets to keep everything in its place.
And because the carry-on is expandable, it can be tempting to pack a lot into it, which may end up exceeding the airline’s restrictions on size or being too heavy for you to manage. So, it’s important to be mindful of how much you’re putting in there and try not to overload it.
Briggs & Rilley ZDX Domestic Carry-on
If you’re someone who travels frequently in a year, then it’s a good idea to splurge on a piece of durable and reliable luggage that can withstand heavy use. And I think the ZDX bag fits the bill perfectly.
At 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including the wheels and handle), this bag is allowed in the overhead compartment on most domestic airlines. And it’s got multi-directional spinner wheels that make it super easy to move around and a handle that you can retract. Plus, the warranty on this bad boy is amazing – you won’t regret investing in it!
What we also like
I think you’ll love this soft-sided luggage as much as I do! It can fit a surprising amount of stuff, and there are loads of pockets both inside and outside, which is perfect for keeping all your bits and bobs organized. And if you happen to go a bit overboard on the souvenir shopping, no worries – you can even expand it from 42.3 – 51.9L on your way back home.
What we don’t like
Okay, so here’s the deal: this suitcase is expensive and is also a tad heavier than other options on this list of best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-ons. This might make it a bit more difficult to lift and maneuver into the overhead bin on a plane. But other than that, you can’t go wrong with a Brigg and Riley bag!
Rockland Fashion Expandable Luggage Set
Sometimes, even bags that brands label as 22x14x9 can end up being slightly larger than the allowed dimensions. It’s a bummer, but it happens! To avoid any headaches at the airport, I suggest going for a bag that’s a bit smaller. That way, you can be sure it’ll fit perfectly in the overhead compartments of international flights with strict size restrictions.
This is why I like the Rockland Fashion Set a lot. Because the suitcase is smaller, you can be sure that it’ll fit like a glove in those overhead bins, no problem! And the tote bag can serve as a personal item. One traveler shares, “This bag meets all the requirements for all of the airlines I’m flying on. It’s going to be my go to suitcase if I have strict carry-on rules.”
What we also like
The set which includes an upright suitcase and a flight tote bag, features a 4.4-star rating with over 60,000 reviews on Amazon. That’s a lot of happy customers! And at only $50, this is an absolute steal. You get two high-quality bags at a price that won’t break the bank.
What we don’t like
According to Xeandra Naicker of Clever Journey, the wheels in this soft sided luggage are not rubberized. So while they would roll smoothly on different surfaces, they’ll produce a lot of noise while in use. I should also point out that several customers have complained that the suitcase tends to tip over. So if you’re planning on using it as a carry-on bag, be prepared to hold onto it or prop it up against something else.
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (backpack)
The best carry-ons featured in this section are strictly backpacks that are designed to fit into the overhead compartments of most airlines, and they are also comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Additionally, these backpacks have multiple pockets and compartments, which is helpful in keeping you organized while on the go.
Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack 45L
If you want a trusty travel backpack that can handle anything from quick weekend trips to longer travels, I highly recommend checking out the Outbreaker from Tortuga. And if you’re wondering, yes, the Outbreaker is carry-on compliant.
It weighs 5.1 pounds and measures 22” x 14” x 9”, which meets the maximum carry-on size requirements for US airlines. So you won’t have to worry about checking your baggage. This best carry-on backpack will fit perfectly in the overhead bin. But if you’re planning on traveling abroad, I’d suggest the 35L Outbreaker instead. It’s the same great backpack, just a tad bit smaller to meet international size requirements.
And let me tell you, this backpack can hold a lot! With 45 liters of space and handy pockets, you can easily fit in a week’s worth of clothes, along with other essentials like your 15” laptop, toiletries, water bottles, a key clip, and more.
What we also like
People often rave about how light this bag is, and I have to say, I totally agree with them! The contoured back panel, load lifters, (removable) sternum straps, and padded straps all work together to make wearing the Outbreaker a super comfortable experience. No more painful shoulders or sore backs!
What we don’t like
This bag is on the pricier side, and it’s designed with frequent travelers in mind. So, if you’re looking for a backpack for daily commutes or hiking, this may not be the best fit due to its size. But overall, if you’re a frequent traveler needing a durable and functional carry-on backpack, the Outbreaker is worth considering!
Matein Travel Backpack
I gotta tell you, the Matein Travel Pack is hands down one of the most affordable backpacks I’d vouch for anytime, anywhere. I’m seriously impressed with its performance and apparently, so are over 68,000 other happy customers who have left glowing reviews. It’s just a great all-around backpack that delivers great performance and value for the money.
Measuring 18” x 12” x 7.8” and weighing just a smidge over 1.5 pounds, it counts as the best carry on luggage. It’s also versatile. Unlike the Tortuga pack above, this baby is not only great as a carry-on, but it’s also perfect for everyday use as a commuter bag. Score!
And the best part? The Matein backpack is made to last! It’s built with heavy-duty polyester fabric that can take a beating, and it’s even water-resistant to keep your stuff dry. Alesandra Dubin over at Travel + Leisure swears by this backpack too! She’s been using hers for four years now, and even with all the traveling her family does, it still looks as good as new. In her word, “even four years (and many passport stamps) into the game, ours shows little signs of wear.”
What we also like
Trust me, you won’t have any trouble staying organized with this 34L bag. With 3 separate compartments, including a front organizer for all your little knick-knacks, external and internal pockets, and a padded section to protect your 15.6-inch laptop and tablet, you’ll never have to worry about digging through a messy bag again. Seriously, it’s got everything you need to keep your stuff in order.
There’s even a USB port so you can charge up while you’re out and about, an anti-theft pocket, and a luggage strap that lets you slide it over your rolling suitcase for those hectic airport moments. And the best part? It’s all for under 30 bucks!
What we don’t like
Remember, this bag is budget-friendly for a reason. It is not the most durable option out there, especially if you plan on using it frequently – it might only last you a few years. But hey, if you’re just looking for something affordable and practical, the Matein pack is your guy.
Nomatic Travel Bag 40L
I think the Nomatic Travel Pack is great for travel and fits perfectly as carry-on luggage. Its size measures 21 x 14 x 9 inches and it only weighs 3.42 lbs, which makes it compliant with most airlines’ size restrictions. And its slim profile means that it won’t take up too much space in the overhead bin.
The pack has many compartments and interior and exterior pockets to keep your stuff organized, which I think is super handy. There’s a roomy main compartment, plus a separate shoe pocket, a water bottle pocket, and even a laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones.
There’s also a tech compartment for your laptop and tablet, which lays flat to make going through TSA checkpoints a breeze. And get this, it can hold up to 40 liters of stuff! That means you can pack everything you need for a 3-7 day trip around Europe or anywhere else you want to go.
What we don’t like
If you’re wondering if this big pack is comfortable to wear, the answer is a big YES! It’s got padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and even a waist belt that helps distribute the weight evenly, so you can carry your bag without any discomfort. Here’s another cool feature of the bag: it has a strap system that lets you easily switch it from a backpack to a duffel bag!
What we don’t like
What do people not like about the Travel Bag? Well, based on reviews, some customers have mentioned that the bag’s delicate tarpaulin material makes it prone to scratches and marks on the exterior, which can be noticeable quite easily.
In addition, folks with smaller torsos have found that the 40L bag can feel a bit too big for them. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re on the petite side and looking for a backpack that fits you well. If you want something smaller, you might want to check out the smaller Nomatic Travel Bag 30L instead.
Best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage (Duffel, Underseater & Totes)
In this section, I will review some weekender bags as the best carry-on luggage is not limited to just suitcases and backpacks.
These options are carry-on sized and are popular among frequent fliers:
Monos Metro Duffel
Ever been on a flight where all the overhead bin space is taken up? It can be so frustrating! But if you have the Monos Metro Duffel, you don’t have to worry about it. This bag is perfect as a carry-on or even a personal item on airlines like Spirit or Frontier. It measures 16.3″ x 11.2″ x 7.2″, which is smaller than the standard size for a personal item.
Plus, it’s not just great for air travel. You can use this bag for work, and weekend getaways, esp. if you like to travel light. According to Conde Nast Traveler reviewer Arati Menon, she’s taken this duffel bag on five different trips and it’s been the perfect companion for each one. She even nicknamed it the “Swiss Army Knife” of travel bags because it can change and adapt to suit her needs for each trip.
You might be surprised to learn that this 22L bag can hold a lot of your travel essentials, including your 15″ laptop, umbrella, and water bottle in place. That’s not all. This duffel also comes with a pass-through sleeve that doubles as an extra pocket for even more storage.
What we also like
If you’re all about being eco-conscious, you’ll be happy to know that the Metro Duffel gives you the option to go green. This bag comes in two versions: one is made of nylon twill with accents of vegan leather, and the other is made entirely of vegan leather that’s ethically sourced ultra-microfiber material. Plus, both versions of the bag are water-resistant and have a scratch-resistant coating that helps to keep them looking new.
What we don’t like
So, I read some reviews about this bag and thought I’d share some things I learned. First off, the bag is on the smaller side, which makes it best suited for short trips of three days or less. Also, some people have complained that the top opening is too narrow, which limits how much you can pack inside. If the zipper went further down the sides, like on the Away Everywhere Bag, I imagine there would be more space to work with.
Another thing to note is that some reviewers found the vegan version of this bag to be heavy. One reviewer said “I felt as if I was lugging it constantly. I did place it on my rolling suitcase at times, but I carried it on the plane. It is heavy, and awkward at times. So, if you’re someone who values lightweight luggage, this might not be the bag for you.
Samsonite Underseat Carry-On
The Samsonite Spinner Underseater has a lot of features that I’m really into. First off, it only weighs 2.5kg, which is super lightweight. And even though it’s small enough to fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment of most airlines, it’s built to last. I mean, it’s Samsonite after all – they don’t mess around when it comes to quality.
This bag is small but mighty. With plenty of pockets and even a padded sleeve for your laptop, this little bag can hold a surprising amount of stuff. One Amazon customer was even able to fit a whole week’s worth of clothing, two pairs of shoes, toiletries, and small items like headphones, a deck of cards, and a charger in this bag! So, even if you’re not a super minimalist packer, you could probably still get away with packing for a 3-4-day trip – maybe even longer if you’re clever about it.
What we also like
The bag is just fabulous bag for both work trips and vacations. And, you won’t have to worry about your phone or other gadgets running out of battery because it has a built-in USB port. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your power bank.
What’s more? This bag also has four spinner wheels that move in all directions, and a push-button handle that makes it a breeze to navigate through busy airports or crowded areas. And if you’ve got a bigger rolling bag, no problem. Just slide the Carry-on over the handle using the luggage sleeve on the back.
What we don’t like
Cleverjourney.com and users who own this bag criticized the fact no TSA lock and the laptop sleeve are unable to accommodate laptops larger than 13 inches. Moreover, it can be difficult to access the main compartment of the bag while on the move, making it less convenient if you need to quickly retrieve your belongings.
Stubble & Co The Weekender
This bag is proof that when it comes to best 22 x 14 x 9 carry-on luggage, bigger can, in fact, be better. With a remarkable capacity of 40 liters (just be careful not to overpack), it can comfortably accommodate a significant amount of clothing and gear for extended trips, short vacations, gym sessions, and beyond.
The quality of Stubble & Co’s bags has consistently impressed me, and this particular one is no exception. Constructed from durable Tekwax canvas and outfitted with YKK zippers, it also features natural full-grain leather, which is designed to withstand wear and tear. And it’s also water-resistant!
One of the best features of this bag, in my opinion, is that it lives up to its role as a carry-on bag. In fact, a satisfied customer shares my sentiment, stating: “I love it and it’s the perfect size for a carry-on. I’ve been looking for days to find a nice bag that fits airline carry-on specifications and this is the only one that met my criteria and was the right size!!”
What we also like
Similar to the Stubble & Co Adventure Travel Backpack, The Weekender is also incredibly minimalist and sophisticated. It’s simply a versatile bag that I can take with me while traveling to a different city, heading to the gym, or commuting to work in the city.
What we don’t like
What I don’t like about The Weekender is that when packed to capacity, it can be too big to take along as a carry-on, as echoed by different customers. That’s why, I wouldn’t recommend this bag if you need a carry-on bag that adheres to strict size restrictions on international or domestic flights.
FAQs
The size of luggage that fits in the overhead bin can vary depending on the airline, but generally, the maximum carry on dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters).
It’s important to note that airlines may have different sizes and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, so it’s a good idea to check with your specific airline before your flight to ensure that your luggage is within their guidelines.
A 22-inch luggage can be a carry-on, as long as it meets the airline’s specific requirements for carry-on luggage size. Most airlines allow carry-ons with dimensions of up to 22” x 14” x 9”, including the handles and wheels. It’s always a good idea to confirm with your airline, though, as some airlines may have more stringent size limitations.
To convert the carry on dimensions of a 22 x 14 x 9 inches luggage to centimeters, you can use the conversion factor of 2.54 (which represents the number of centimeters in one inch).
So, the size of the luggage in centimeters would be 22 inches = 55.88 cm 14 inches = 35.56 cm 9 inches = 22.86 cm. Therefore, the size of a 22 x 14 x 9 inches luggage in centimeters is approximately 56x 36 x 23 cm (length x width x height).
The international carry-on size limit varies depending on the airline and the region you are traveling to or from. However, in general, the minimum size allowed for a carry-on bag on international flights is typically around 21.5 x 13.5 x 8 inches, or 54 x 34 x 20 centimeters (length x width x height), including handles and wheels.
It’s important to note that some airlines may have stricter size limits or weight restrictions for carry-on bags, so it’s always a good idea to check with your airline before traveling.
In the context of carry-on luggage, 22 x 14 x 9 usually refers to the maximum dimensions allowed by airlines for carry-on bags. This means that if your carry-on bag measures 22 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in height (or smaller), it should meet the size requirements of most airlines and can be brought on board the airplane as a carry-on item.
No, a 22-inch carry-on is within the size restrictions for most domestic flights, but it may be too big for certain international flights. However, it’s crucial to remember that the maximum size for carry-on luggage can vary by airline. As such, I recommend you verify with your specific airline before your flight to ensure that your luggage meets their guidelines. Doing so will help prevent any potential issues at the airport and ensure a hassle-free travel experience
According to an article on Clever Journey, Alyssa Chua, an avid traveler, explained that airlines do not have a preference for either hard or soft luggage. The choice between the two comes down to the personal preference of the traveler.
While both types of luggage have their pros and cons, hard luggage offers better protection for delicate items and is more water-resistant. However, it can be heavier and harder to store in tight spaces.
On the other hand, soft luggage is usually lighter and easier to store, but it may not provide as much protection for fragile items. Ultimately, the decision on whether to choose hard or soft luggage should be based on the traveler’s specific needs and preferences.
The Away Bigger Carry-On exceeds the standard carry-on size, measuring 22.7” x 14.7” x 9.6”. Despite this, Lyndsey Matthews of AFAR confirms that she has been able to fit the bag into the overhead bins of most domestic carriers she has flown within the past five years since owning it. However, Matthews notes that on smaller regional flights, she has been asked to gate check the bag because the wheeled suitcases would not fit into the compact overhead bins. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that when buying carry on luggage for international flights, this bag is much larger than what most foreign carriers allow.
Bottom Line
And that’s a wrap on my review of the 12 best 22 x 14 x 9 Carry-On Luggage in 2023! The good news is that all the bags on the list are awesome – they’re strong, they’re reliable, and they’re the perfect size to fit in most airline overhead compartments. So, if you need trusty carry-on luggage for your upcoming travels, this list has got you sorted.
Got any questions? Drop ’em in the comments section below – I’m all ears!
If you’re still undecided, you might want to check out some of our other roundups, such as the Best Carry-on Luggage, Carry-On Luggage for Frequent Fliers, Best Hardside Luggage, or the Best Luggage for International Travel.
And for any other general questions on carry-on luggage, you are sure to find answers in my ultimate guide to Carry-on luggage post.
Why You Should Trust Travelccessories
If you’re looking for trustworthy guidance on travel accessories, you can count on Travelccessories. Femi, an expert in travel gear, and our team have put together a comprehensive review that draws on our hands-on testing, extensive research on reputable brands, careful examination of product manuals and customer feedback, and evaluation of numerous luggage models.
We specifically looked for bags with robust construction, exceptional features, and high ratings from real users. And most importantly, our team consists of experts who do not accept payment for reviews and are committed to providing honest and thorough information to help you make informed decisions when choosing the right luggage.
Also, this article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These products have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
