We are traveling in Sept. to Rome for 4 days, a Greek 7-day cruise, and then 3 days in Salzburg....I think I have my clothes figured out, but now I'm worried about my suitcase! It's a 22" Jansport that I love! I have carried it on domestic flights, no problem.

Since there are so many of you that travel on European carriers , will this size be a problem? Should I go out and get a 21" to be safe?

Hi Lv,

I suggest that you ask your airline(s).

What's the total linear inches? I've seen most putting it at 45", but yes check with your airline.

The bigger issue in Europe (in my experience) is weight, rather than 21" vs 22". And virtually any roll-aboard, even partly filled will run afoul of the weight limits.

I wouldn't spend the money on the second bag, but would be prepared to check it, if need be. To minimize the likelihood of having to check it, don't let airline staff see it prior to getting to the gate (i.e. use online check-in or kiosks). Once at the gate, you are usually home-free.

If I am not sure a suitcase will be allowed, I'd rather face the music ahead of time and check it thru, rather than sneak it out to the gate and be surprised when they don't let it on the plane.

I have checked with airlines, in fact, tried to carry it on Aer Lingus, where they say they allow 22" but their size thing is at most 18"! We are flying Brussels Air and they only mention wt, not size, so I guess I take them at their word and hope for the best? Maybe a totally soft suitcase has a better chance of getting through?

BTW what usually happens if you get to the gate and they don't allow it?

They will "gate check" your bag if it is not allowed on. They'll tag it in the jetway, and when you come off the plane, you will need to wait for your bag in the jetway. No need to go to baggage claim.

If you really like it, I wouldn't get another just because it claimed to be 21" rather than 22". First, that size can vary a lot between brands. European carriers aren't that different from others in terms of what they allow of that size. It's partially random as to who is at the gate, how full the flight is, etc., as to whether a bag that size will get on.

I've had a 21-22" bag allowed from US on Air Canada one way but rejected in return, and nothing more was in it, etc.

It depends how stuffed it is, also, I think. If you expand it and have it really bulging, it probably won't be allowed, but if you've had it as carryon in the US at that exact same capacity, I'd try it.