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55 × 40 × 23 cm bag

Common legacy-airline cabin size (Lufthansa, LOT, TK). Here is how it compares with our manually reviewed airline limits, including wheels and handles.

Researched and maintained by FitsOnBoard editorial teamPublished by the FitsOnBoard teamLast updated: Editorial standards
✓ Free on 4! Tight on 18✕ No on 25

What this size is designed for

The 55 × 40 × 23 cm format is common among full-service European and international airlines, including several reviewed carriers in the FitsOnBoard database. The extra three centimetres of depth can add meaningful packing space without changing the familiar cabin-case footprint.

Best use

It suits travellers whose regular airlines publish this exact overhead limit and include a cabin bag in the selected fare. The proportions work for both two-wheel and spinner cases, although the wheel assembly must remain inside the stated 55 cm height.

Main trade-off

Those extra three centimetres make the case unsuitable for strict 55 × 40 × 20 cm policies unless the shell or packed bag can genuinely remain at 20 cm. It is therefore less flexible for low-cost itineraries than a shallower European cabin case.

Measure before flying

Check the manufacturer’s external, not internal, dimensions and verify whether its published depth includes the front handle and pockets. If the case is expandable, measure it in the exact configuration that will reach the gate and keep the expansion closed when required.

Fits — free

Fits — paid / add-on

Tight — risky

Doesn't fit

FAQ

Which airlines accept a 55 × 40 × 23 cm bag?+

A 55 × 40 × 23 cm bag fits 4 airlines for free, including Jet2, British Airways, Southwest Airlines. It's a tight fit on 18 and over the limit on 25.

Is 55 × 40 × 23 cm a carry-on or a personal item size?+

In Europe, sizes around 40×20×25 cm are free under-seat bags, while 55×40×20 cm and larger are cabin bags that may need Priority or a paid add-on.

Other sizes

40 × 30 × 20 cm45 × 36 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm22 × 14 × 9 in18 × 14 × 8 in