Cabin baggage: let's untangle the rules and optimize your trip

Carry-on baggage, that essential travel companion, sometimes seems to hold many surprises for us. Indeed, size and weight standards vary from one airline to another, making choosing the right baggage complex.

But where does this notion of "cabin baggage" come from and how has it survived the centuries to become so widely used today, from aviation to rail? Let's dive together into the history of this small, multifaceted piece of luggage? What is the origin of these standards? How have they evolved? And above all, how can you choose the ideal cabin suitcase today for worry-free travel?

The origins of cabin baggage: a journey through the centuries

The term "cabin baggage" has its roots in ocean liner travel. In the days of the great ocean liners, the wealthiest passengers had a private cabin where they could store their personal belongings. "Cabin baggage" then referred to anything the passenger wanted to have within reach during the voyage, and therefore carried in their cabin.

With the rise of commercial aviation in the 20th century, the term naturally emerged to refer to the baggage that passengers could take on board the aircraft. Although the means of transport have evolved, the basic concept remains the same: a personal space on board where the passenger can store their belongings. With the increase in the number of travelers and the need to optimize space on board aircraft, airlines have gradually implemented stricter standards.

The persistence of the term "cabin baggage"

Why has this term survived through the centuries and modes of transport? There are several reasons for its longevity:

• • Continuity of the concept: Whether by boat, train, or plane, the basic principle remains the same: a personal space on board where passengers can store their belongings. This notion of private space and personal items within easy reach is universal and transcends all modes of transportation.

  • Evocative simplicity: The term "cabin baggage" is short, easy to remember, and immediately understandable. It clearly evokes the idea of ​​baggage that can be transported on board a means of transport equipped with cabins.

  • The practical aspect: The term is practical because it allows you to quickly distinguish between baggage that travels with the passenger in the cabin and that which is placed in the hold.

  • Habit and consensus: Over time, the term "cabin baggage" has become a standard in everyday language, both for travelers and transportation professionals. It has become an essential and difficult to replace reference.

The evolution of standards: a race towards miniaturization

While the term has endured, the standards for cabin baggage dimensions and weight have evolved considerably over time. Several factors have influenced this evolution:

• • Growth in air traffic: The increase in passenger numbers has pushed airlines to optimize space on board.

  • Environmental concerns: Reducing the weight of aircraft helps reduce fuel consumption.

  • Safety measures: The September 11, 2001 attacks led to increased security screening, with stricter restrictions on items allowed in the cabin.

The different "cabin size families"

There is no single international standard for cabin baggage! Each airline sets its own maximum dimensions and weights. However, there are several "families" of sizes:

• • Economical formats: These formats are generally smaller and lighter, to meet the needs of low-cost airlines seeking to optimize their costs.

  • Standard / international formats: These formats are the most standard, suitable for medium-length trips and offer a larger storage volume.

  • The + / premium formats: These formats are generally larger and heavier, and are often offered as a paid option by airlines, and are also sometimes present on domestic routes.

The main criteria to take into account

• • Width and depth: These dimensions are crucial to ensure your baggage will fit in the aircraft's overhead compartments. These two dimensions are where there is the most variation from one airline to another.

  • Height: The height is less restrictive, typically 55 cm for the vast majority of airlines (some exceptions at 50 cm, others at 56 cm).

  • Weight: The maximum weight allowed varies from one company to another, but is generally between 6 and 12 kg.

What size cabin baggage should I choose?

To choose the ideal size for your cabin baggage:

• • Check the airline websites: Check the maximum dimensions and weight limits for each flight, especially for the airlines you fly with the most.

  • Favor formats compatible with the main standards: These formats offer a good compromise between storage volume and compatibility with most airlines.

  • Choose a format adapted to your use

Summary table of cabin baggage standards for major airlines:

Note : This table is provided for information purposes only. Standards may change, so it is important to check the latest information before your departure.

Choosing your carry-on baggage is an important step in preparing for your trip. By taking into account the standards of different airlines and opting for a high-quality model, you can travel with complete peace of mind.