Having been shopping for the past couple of weeks for a carryon, I have learned that the external dimensions are not on the hang tag. I actually received a reply from Briggs and Riley about this and they said we were interested in carrying capacity, not the outside dimensions so their hang tags refer to that.

UUURRRRGGGHHH!

How can we make an intelligent decision about which to purchase when they do not give us the dimensions that are important to the airlines? I wrote back to her last night and will let you know if I receive a response.

So a 22x14x9 inch tagged bag is probably 2-3 inches larger all around. And, as much as I like the 20x16 bag, if the sizer is sized for a 14 -15 inch wide bag, then it will not fit either even though the total dimensions may well be within the 45 inches.

I did bring home the transcend 20x16 AND 21X14 to pack and play with and really liked them both. That said, I would like to look at their BRX series as I like that they weigh about 2 pounds less and that the backpack buckles to the suitcase. I have seen backpacks that have a zip off smaller backpack that you separate into the carryon and personal item but I have not wanted the backpack straps. This, however, has the carryon and backpack that fit together when you are moving and can separate for the check in. Additionally, if you expand the carryon when you return, the backpack can be carried on your back instead of on your shoulder which I find easier. I usually travel with a backpack and carryon but my backpack is too unwieldy to fit either over the handles or with the attach a strap -- too long -- so I would like something like this -- just looking for a place to pick it up and test drive it.