Flying Icelandair is different than flying the large legacy carriers in the U.S. Designed for efficiency from Nordic roots, mixed narrow-body fleets, and enforced but clearly communicated cabin baggage policies mean an incorrectly sized carry-on could either get gate-checked at Keflavík or become a battle with smaller overhead bins on transatlantic sectors.
I put this guide together to answer the biggest question: what carry-on luggage actually works best on Icelandair?
When looking at Icelandair luggage recommendations I go beyond published dimensions– I want real-world answers:
- Will it fit in the overhead bin without forcing other passengers bags?
- Can you easily pull it through tight airport aisles?
- How does it handle when you’re walking long distances through airports or lugging winter layers?
Here are my top picks for carry-on luggage flying Icelandair, edited and optimized for travelers seeking answers, not advertisements.
Icelandair Carry-On Rules (Quick Overview)
Before researching luggage models, let’s make sure we know Icelandair’s overhead bin policy.
Basic Carry-On Allowance
1 carry-on bag allowed with dimensions no larger than approx. 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm) including handles and wheels.
Personal Item Size
Passengers may also bring 1 personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. Personal item allowances include laptop bags, purses, and backpacks.
Weight Limits
While Icelandair is not known for weighing carry-on bags at the gate, heavier bags may be questioned on routes where flights are frequently full during peak winter travel season.
That said, I have personally found a big difference with suitcases that feel light when empty. You’ll want some wiggle room for coats, winter boots, and shopping bags.
Suitcases with lighter-weight shells are more ideal on Icelandair.
Why Carry-On Size Matters on Icelandair
You’ll notice that not every suitcase approved for “carry-on” makes the list above. After flying on Icelandair and experiencing their aircraft first-hand, here are carry-on priorities that matter.
Bin Depth is More Important Than Height
Height is rarely the issue when packing a carry-on for Icelandair. More often than not, bags are too deep to fit in Icelandair’s overhead bins.
Depending on the aircraft, some overhead bins feel smaller than what you might be used to domestically in the United States. Look for suitcases with a slimmer profile for horizontal sliding motion.
Lighter Weight Builds are Preferable on Longer Flights
Since most Icelandair customers fly transatlantic routes, you’ll want a suitcase that won’t feel like dead weight when you try to lift it into the overhead bin after a long flight.
Try to find something around 8 pounds or lighter when empty.
Smoother Rolling Wheels = Less Fatigue at KEF
Keflavík airport is far from the originating terminal when you’re connecting through Europe or North America. Spinner wheels can reduce stress on your wrists during those long walks.
Best Carry-On Luggage for Icelandair Airlines
Now it’s time to reveal my top Icelandair carry-on luggage picks after considering dimensions, real-world fit, and overall travel experience.
Samsonite Omni PC Carry-On
I’ve personally used this suitcase for Icelandair flights multiple times and can confidently recommend it. Constructed with a durable polycarbonate shell, the Omni PC is lightweight while still retaining its shape if the bin above you is crushing your luggage.
It fits within size guidelines and the shape is slightly rounded which aids in sliding into bins.
Pros: Affordable, versatile, and durable enough to withstand cold temperatures.
Cons: Doesn’t feel as high-end as other models on this list.
Why we love it for Icelandair
The dimensions are on the conservative side. It won’t expand, and the polycarbonate shell provides a smooth roll on your airport excursion.
Travelpro Maxlite Air Carry-On Spinner
Searching for the lightest carry-on? Look no further. This lightweight softside suitcase is considerably lighter than traditional hard-shell suitcases.
Its built with a softer material than most other luggage brands. But don’t let that scare you off when flying Icelandair. Softside luggage bends so it can sometimes fit when hard-side suitcases won’t.
Pros: Super lightweight and slightly elastic material.
Cons: Not as durable for checked bags.
Why we love it for Icelandair
When my go-to carry-on is packed full, this bad boy comes in handy. While the material doesn’t scream durable, it is perfect for an airline that doesn’t usually weigh bags at the gate.
LEVEL8 Carry-On
This is one of the newer luggage brands that has gained a lot of attention lately. From the build quality to the sleek design, it ticks all of the boxes for me when looking for a new suitcase.
Pros: Minimalist design and has good reviews for durability.
Cons: Nylon can be susceptible to sharp objects or if not handled properly by airport employees.
Why we love it for Icelandair
Slim depth, hard carrying shell, and wheels don’t sway side-to-side when pulling through the airport.
Delsey Paris Helium Aero Carry-On
Looking for some extra space? Check out this carry-on option from Delsey. While slightly larger than my other recommendations, it’s important to note that it technically fits within size regulations for Icelandair.
Pros: Streamlined shape makes for optimal bin storage.
Cons: After two years, started showing signs of wear (zippers started breaking).
Why we love it for Icelandair
Despite being a soft-sided suitcase, it has held up tremendously when traveling with messy kids and uneven surfaces in KEF.
Away The Carry-On
This carry-on technically fits, but it’s spot on close to the sizing limits. Therefore, you run the risk of overpacking or forcing your bag into the bin.
On that note, Away is known for its durable wheels and sleek designs. If you already own this suitcase, it can work but I wouldn’t advise fully expanding the bag or packing heavy winter coats.
Pros: High-quality suitcase with a durable wheel system.
Cons: Easy to overpack with heavier items.
Best Hardside vs Softside for Icelandair
This debate comes up quite frequently, so let’s talk about how both can apply to Icelandair specifically.
Soft-sided luggage allows for more flexible dimensions when fighting for space in overhead bins. However, hard-sided luggage will protect your belongings from overhead bin lids and potential gate checks.
A hard-shell also tends to hold up better in wet environments. It’s not uncommon to have snow or rain in Iceland during winter months.
When flying Icelandair, you can technically get away with both styles. However, if you tend to pack electronics or structured items, I would recommend a hard-shell carry-on.
If you pack clothing only and want that little bit of extra room, soft-shell is the way to go.
Tips For Packing Icelandair Carry-On Luggage
Keep Iceland Weather in Mind
Temperatures can fluctuate in Iceland throughout the year. Packing versatile layers will save you space instead of packing bulky sweatshirts.
Leave the Boots at Home
Waterproof boots or heavy hiking shoes should be worn onboard if possible. Icelandair’s overhead bins fill up quickly, and your boots could be taking up valuable space.
Slim Fits For Personal Items
Try opting for a small backpack that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. This grants you some extra room for things that don’t need to be in your carry-on.
Mistakes To Avoid When Flying Icelandair with a Carry-On
Forgetting Size Differences
Remember that “international carry-on” does not mean your preferred American carry-on will fit on Icelandair. Airlines based in Europe and Asia often have smaller cabins.
Packing Too Much in Expandable Luggage
Just because your bag doesn’t exceed the carry-on dimensions doesn’t mean you won’t get harassed by gate agents. An expanded suitcase is a sure-fire way to be questioned at the gate.
Not Leaving Room for Layers
Iceland is cold. If you’re not traveling there during summer months, you’ll need to pack winter gear. Picking a lighter suitcase gives you more room for clothing.
Final Thoughts
If you don’t want to take any chances with your luggage being gate checked on Icelandair, I recommend a lightweight carry-on with fixed dimensions that are below the size requirements.
Both hard-shell and soft-shell bags can work well. As a rule of thumb, avoid anything that looks like it could be oversized.
Perfect Icelandair carry-ons should roll smoothly and be light enough for you to lift into the overhead bin by yourself.
With the right suitcase you’ll breeze right through your Icelandair flights. Make sure to pick a carry-on with dimensions that fit comfortably in the overhead bin and aren’t filled to max capacity.
Let me know if you currently own a carry-on and have flown with Icelandair. It’s always helpful to read real-life experiences when looking for luggage recommendations!
