Update date: 2026.02.02

Carry-on Suitcase Guide: International, Domestic, and LCC Rules and How to Choose

Title

In 2026, with weight restrictions on low-cost carriers becoming increasingly strict, the popularity of lightweight suitcases is soaring.

When choosing a carry-on suitcase for an overseas trip, domestic business trip, or weekend getaway, many people may be worried, wondering, " Have the regulations changed again? " or " Can Peach or Jetstar strictly adhere to the 7kg limit? "

This guide is based on the official websites of ANA, JAL, Peach, Jetstar, etc., and is constantly updated to reflect the latest regulations. The content will remain the same unless there are major changes, but please be sure to check the official website of each airline before boarding.

Title

table of contents

1. Why are there regulations regarding carry-on suitcases?

2. How to Choose a Suitcase That Won't Fail You [5 Checkpoints]

2. [Domestic Flights] Carry-on Suitcase Regulations

4. Three points to check before purchasing

4. [LCC] Carry-on suitcase regulations

6. Three recommended carry-on suitcases

\500 yen off for readers only/

Sign up for New Trip's email newsletter and receive a 500 yen off coupon that can be used on all products!

Coupon code: NT500

Simply enter your details on the payment screen and you'll get your new travel companion at a great price.

Thank you for subscribing!

一、機内持ち込みの基準【2026年最新・航空会社別一覧】

Let's start by looking at the basic rules. There are restrictions on the size and weight of carry-on baggage for the following two main reasons:

  • Safety precautions : Excessively large luggage may block airplane aisles or emergency exits, potentially hindering emergency evacuation.
  • In-flight storage space : Overhead bins are limited, so we want to ensure that all passengers have equal access to the space.

As of 2026, many airlines are enforcing regulations more strictly to enhance security and ensure fairness in space.

サイズの基準

  • Domestic flights (aircraft with 100 or more seats)
    The standard is generally "total linear dimensions of 115cm or less (e.g., 55cm H x 40cm W x 25cm D)." Major airlines such as ANA, JAL, and Skymark adopt this standard.
  • Domestic flights (small aircraft with fewer than 100 seats)
    For smaller aircraft, the restrictions are slightly stricter, with a "total linear dimensions of 100cm or less (e.g., 45cm H x 35cm W x 20cm D)." As these are often used on regional routes, it's best to check the aircraft type in advance.
  • LCCs (Low-Cost Carriers)
    Airlines such as Peach and Jetstar generally allow 115cm or less, but there may be specific restrictions on the length of each side.

重量の基準

  • Major airlines: 10kg or less
    For full-service carriers like ANA and JAL, carry-on baggage is generally limited to 10kg. This is the total weight of both the suitcase and its contents, so if the suitcase itself is heavy, you'll have less room for your belongings.
  • LCCs: 7kg or less
    Low-cost carriers like Peach and Jetstar typically have a 7kg limit. Furthermore, as of 2026, more airports are introducing automatic weighing machines, so checks tend to be stricter than before.

航空会社別の規定一覧

航空会社 座席数 サイズ（3辺合計） 重量
ANA 100席以上 55×40×25cm（115cm） 10kg
JAL 100席以上 55×40×25cm（115cm） 10kg
JAL 100席未満 100cm以内 10kg
Peach - 115cm以内 7kg
Jetstar - 56×36×23cm（115cm） 7kg
Skymark - 55×40×25cm（115cm） 7kg

*Information as of June 2026. Please check each airline's official website for the latest information.

Title

Related article : " How to choose the best luggage and suitcase for a 3-night, 4-day trip "

Title

二、失敗しないスーツケースの選び方【5つのチェックポイント】

Now that we understand the regulations, let's look at what kind of suitcase you should actually choose.

本体重量は3kg以下を目安に

The most important factor for carry-on luggage is actually the weight of the suitcase itself.

For example, with LCCs' 7kg limit, if the suitcase itself weighs 3.5kg, you only have 3.5kg left for your belongings.

 

If you pack a laptop (approx. 1.5kg), a winter outer garment (approx. 1kg), and chargers (approx. 0.5kg), you'll quickly reach the limit.

On the other hand, if you choose a lightweight model where the suitcase itself weighs around 2.5kg, you'll have 4.5kg available for your belongings, giving you more flexibility.

 

Editor's recommendation: Choose a suitcase with a body weight of approximately 2.5-3.0kg.

容量は宿泊日数×10Lで考える

As a basic guideline, suitcase capacity is "10L per night."

  • 1-2 nights: 30-35L
  • 2-3 nights: 35-40L
  • 3-4 nights: Around 40L

However, carry-on sizes are limited, so generally, the maximum is about 40L, which means an S size suitcase.

Even within the "S size" category, actual sizes vary by product, so it's important to check carefully before purchasing.

Title

→ Related article: "How to Choose an S-Size Suitcase | Carry-On & Recommended Models"

タイプはハードとソフト、どちらを選ぶ？

Hard-sided luggage features

  • Excellent durability
  • Resistant to rain and dirt
  • Made of ABS resin, polycarbonate, aluminum, etc.
  • Polycarbonate is recommended for those who prioritize lightweightness

Soft-sided luggage features

  • Lightweight (many models weigh around 2kg)
  • Flexible and can be slightly overpacked
  • Relatively affordable
  • Many models have exterior pockets

Editor's advice:
If you frequently use LCCs or are concerned about weight limits, soft-sided luggage is recommended. If durability and water resistance are your priority, hard-sided luggage is a better choice.

開閉方式はファスナーが便利

There are two main types of suitcase opening mechanisms: frame type and zipper type.

Frame Type

  • High durability and security
  • Tends to be heavier

Zipper Type

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Can be partially opened, making it convenient for packing and unpacking
  • Recently, many models feature double zippers for enhanced security

For carry-on luggage, lightweight is a priority, so the zipper type is predominant.

あると便利な機能

Front-Opening Design
This feature allows you to access items from a front pocket while the suitcase is standing upright. It is especially recommended for business travelers who need to quickly retrieve a laptop or documents at the airport.

TSA Lock
Essential for travel to the United States. Since TSA officers can open it with a special tool, you don't have to worry about your luggage being damaged even if you check it with the lock on.

Expansion Feature
This feature allows you to increase the depth of the suitcase using a zipper. While convenient when you buy more souvenirs, expanding it may exceed 115 cm, making it often unsuitable for carry-on. Choose this with the understanding that you might need to check your luggage on the return trip.

Silent Casters
These are useful in situations where noise is a concern, such as early morning travel or hotel hallways. The 4-wheel type offers excellent maneuverability, making movement within the airport smoother.

Title

Should I carry it on or check it?

We've explained how to choose a carry-on up to this point, but some of you may be wondering, "Do I really need to carry it on?"

Actually, depending on your travel style, checking your luggage might be more comfortable.

→ Related article: 『Carry-on vs. Checked Suitcase: Which is Right for Your Trip?』

Title

三、用途別おすすめのスーツケースモデル

Regulations for domestic flights in Japan vary depending on the number of seats on the aircraft used.

  • For aircraft with 100 or more seats : Total dimensions of three sides must be within 115cm (e.g. 55cm x 40cm x 25cm)
  • For aircraft with fewer than 100 seats : Total dimensions of three sides must be within 100cm (e.g. 45cm x 35cm x 20cm)

The weight of both items is generally within 10 kg . Particular care is required when using small aircraft, such as flights to remote islands.

LCC利用が多い方：とにかく軽量モデル

Key points to consider

  • Main unit weight under 3kg
  • Allowance for 7kg limit
  • Simple structure, less prone to breaking

Recommended for:

  • Frequent flyers with Peach or Jetstar
  • Those who want to minimize luggage
  • Value for money seekers

For example, the New Trip 0201 model weighs 2.8kg and has a capacity of 40L (48L when expanded), earning high praise from LCC users.

New Trip 0201 スーツケース

拡張機能搭載・超軽量モデル

New Trip 0201

Sサイズ・40L（拡張後48L）｜外寸55*36*23cm

ABS+PC素材 超軽量2.8kg 拡張機能 TSAロック
商品を見る

出張が多い方：フロントオープン型

Key features to prioritize

  • Quick access to PC and documents from front pocket
  • USB port adds even more convenience
  • Appearance suitable for business settings

Recommended for people who:

  • Frequently remove their PC at the airport
  • Work while traveling
  • Want to maintain a smart image

New Trip's 0501 model features a side-opening front, USB port, and smartphone stand, with a design specifically for business use.

New Trip 0501 スーツケース

フロントオープン・多機能モデル

New Trip 0501

Sサイズ・40L（拡張後48L）｜外寸54*37.5*23cm

横開きフロントオープン 100%PC素材 USB充電ポート ストッパー付き スマホスタンド
商品を見る

長く使いたい方：高耐久モデル

Key points to consider

  • Durable materials such as PC and aluminum frames
  • High-quality casters
  • Luxurious appearance

Recommended for people who:

  • Travel many times a year
  • Consider a suitcase an investment
  • Value a sense of ownership

New Trip's 0502 model features a PC material body and zinc alloy corner pads, providing peace of mind for long-term use. With HINOMOTO casters, it offers exceptional usability.

New Trip 0502 スーツケース

静音キャスター・耐用モデル

New Trip 0502

Sサイズ・40L（拡張後48L）｜外寸54.5*37*23cm

100%PC素材 HINOMOTO製キャスター 亜鉛合金コーナーパット スマホスタンド
商品を見る
Title

四、購入前に確認すべき3つの注意点

キャスター込みのサイズを測る

Even if the catalog states "55x40x25cm," always confirm if that includes the casters.

Some manufacturers may only list the main body dimensions, and when measured, the actual size can be 2-3cm larger due to the casters.

Editor's Recommendation: Measure with a tape measure before purchasing, or inquire with the manufacturer.

荷物を入れた状態で計量してみる

We recommend not only weighing your empty suitcase but also weighing it once it's actually packed with your belongings.

Especially with winter clothes, shoes, and chargers, which can be heavier than you expect, you might think "7kg should be plenty," only to find it's actually 6.8kg.

If you have a digital scale at home, it's reassuring to check before you leave.

拡張機能の使いどころを理解する

While suitcases with an expansion feature are convenient, expanding them often makes them exceed carry-on size limits.

Therefore,

  • On the way there, they are typically used as a carry-on (without expansion).
  • On the way back, they are checked with souvenirs (with expansion).

Be sure to check the expanded size in advance.

Special considerations when flying internationally

When flying internationally, pay special attention to the following points:

  • TSA lock availability (mandatory for travel to the USA)
  • Regulations for battery-equipped suitcases
  • 100ml liquid restriction (for carry-on baggage)
  • Re-checking weight and size during transfers
Title

Choosing a cabin-friendly size and a capacity that matches the length of your trip will make your journey more comfortable.

Be sure to also check out our guide on how to choose a suitcase size.

Title

五、よくある質問（FAQ）

Q1. 機内持ち込みできるスーツケースのサイズは？

一般的な国内線・国際線では、3辺合計115cm以内（55×40×25cm以内）が機内持ち込みサイズの目安です。ただし、100席未満の小型機では100cm以内の制限が適用される場合があります。また、LCCでは各辺の規定が異なることもあるため、搭乗前に航空会社の最新ルールを確認しましょう。

Q2. 1〜3泊の旅行なら何Lのスーツケースがおすすめですか？

1〜3泊であれば30〜40L程度が目安です。1〜2泊なら30〜35L、2〜3泊なら35〜40L、3〜4泊なら40L前後がおすすめです。冬場やお土産が増える旅行では、少し余裕のある容量を選ぶと安心です。

Q3. 拡張機能付きスーツケースは機内持ち込みできますか？

拡張前の状態で規定サイズ内であれば機内持ち込み可能です。ただし、拡張時はサイズオーバーになる場合があるため、搭乗時は拡張を閉じた状態で利用しましょう。

Q4. USBポート付きスーツケースは飛行機で使えますか？

USBポート付きスーツケース自体は利用できます。ただし、モバイルバッテリー内蔵型には制限がある場合もあるため、取り外し可能タイプがおすすめです。利用前に航空会社のルールを確認しましょう。

Q5. リュックとスーツケースを持つ場合、2個扱いになりますか？

一般的には、スーツケース1個とリュック1個の持ち込みは可能です。ただし、航空会社によっては「手荷物1個＋身の回り品1個」のルールがあり、合計重量の制限にも注意が必要です。

Q6. 空港の測定機（サイズチェッカー）に入らなかった場合はどうなりますか？

規定サイズを超えている場合、その場で預け入れ手荷物扱いになることがあります。LCCでは追加料金が発生するケースもあるため、出発前にサイズと重量を確認しておくことが大切です。

Title

六、まとめ

So far we've looked at carry-on sizes and how to choose one, but you may be wondering which suitcase to choose. Here we'll introduce three models that we particularly recommend based on functionality, design, and purpose.

執筆・監修

New Trip編集部
本記事は、スーツケース・旅行用品ブランド「New Trip」の編集部により制作されました。
製品開発やユーザーの声を活かしながら、ユーザーに合ったスーツケースや、旅行・出張をより快適にするアイテムを発信しています。

Store Events

Related articles

Free shipping for orders over 2000 yen

All items from our store are shipped free of charge for purchases over 2,000 yen.

Customer Service

Our top priority is to provide high quality after-sales service.

Product warranty

All products are made with great attention to detail.

Secure Shopping

We integrate secure payment methods to ensure your payments are safe.