I like Tumi's new luggage design, coming out in April, and am trying to figure out what the largest luggage size (22, 24, or 26") is for practical travel using overhead bins. I am primarily considering first class internationally in carriers like BA and JL, but also FC domestically on AA.

See: http://www.suitcase.com/B2002Tumi6445.php

I am hoping the 26" model will fit, which is technically 27" x 20" x 12". IME, the defining/limiting factors on overheads is: (i) the height -- and 12" should be OK, and then (ii) width/depth (I think most overheads are 22" deep).

I therefore think 12" high by 20" deep will fit in an overhead and therfore that a 26/27" length is pretty irrelevant, given the fact that one would lay the bag down horizontally in the bin, not put it in head to toe.

FOr ther record, the new Tumi T3 24" model is actually 24" x 18" x 12", which is the same height as the 26" model, but is two inches shorter and two inches narrower.

Their 22" inch model, which is "standard carry on size", is: 22" x 14" x 11", although at 47" combind it slightly exceeds most airline's 45" combined limit.

Despite most airline's published standards, my real question is what size are the overhead bins themselves and what sized bags can they accommodate? For purposes of this discussion, let's ignore older, small bins and focus the majority of bins on 757's, MD-80's, 767's, 777's, and 747's and their Airbus equivalents.

As you can see, this luggage is sleek and looks like it is designed for overheads...I know many people's pet peeve is large suitcases in overheads, but I have a long trip coming up and will be in first class on AA (BOS-ORD), JL & CX, and would like to not have to check my bag.

Your thoughts?


[This message has been edited by nologic (edited Feb 18, 2004).]