My wife and I have traveling backpacks that measure 24" x 16" x 8.5". In the past, we have always checked them. However, on an upcoming trip to Europe, we would like to carry them on board and place them in the overhead bin, if at all possible. Will we be able to fit the two backpacks into the overhead bin of an MD-80 on the A/B side? I'm sure if they fit into an MD-80 bin, they will more comfotably fit into the larger 777 bin (again, A/B side).

And before anyone asks, (1) yes, I have checked AA's official carry-on allowance information, which advises a 45 linear inch maximum (ours is 48.5 linear inches), and (2) yes, I am somewhat sheepish about joining the ranks of those who bring larger bags aboard the plane as carry-ons.

[Edited to add the linear inch maximum. I guess we are theoretically over the limit by 3.5 linear inches. But what I want to know is that will our bags be too big for the overhead bins in practice?]

Finally, assuming our bags will fit in the overhead bins on our flights, is there any benefit to carrying them on as opposed to checking them -- aside from the obvious benefit of not risking AA losing them -- bearing in mind that we are making a LGW connection from AA to EZ? For example, will it allow us to remain airside?

[This message has been edited by cAAl (edited Mar 13, 2004).]