My apologies in advance if this has been discussed before, the only threads I found were a couple years old.

I'm moving to London next week from Germany. I'll be flying BA3274 DUS-LCY, which is an E175, in CE.

Since I'm moving I'll be taking quite a bit of luggage. In addition to checking three suitcases (paying for the third) I want to carry on a suitcase and a backpack. The suitcase is a standard 22" roller and shouldn't be a problem. However, I would like to carry my TUMI Alpha Bravo Kingsville backpack as my handbag/laptop bag. TUMI lists it as 17" x 14" x 9".

I normally travel with this suitcase and backpack both as carry ons and have never had a problem. However, I'm concerned as I know BA can be rather strict and the E175 doesn't have a ton of overhead space. I'd like to avoid having to pay to check at the gate.

Can anybody advise on how strict the ground staff are for a slightly oversized handbag/laptop bag at DUS? Thanks in advance!