I need to clear some things up


Happy weekend!

SETTING THE RUMORS STRAIGHT:

For the last few weeks, I’ve been getting so many comments on my luggage videos asking about the ‘new carry-on sizing changes in 2025.’

I was so confused about where these were coming from because I’ve heard nothing of the sort.

Turns out, there have been a couple videos floating around that went viral (like, over a million views in a week) that stated that US airlines are now all following a new size for carry-on bags and that old luggage may not fit.

First - this is false.

Secondly, these videos were AI-generated, complete with fake AI voices and scripts written completely by ChatGPT.

I think there was a headline early in the new year that American Airlines was rumoured to be changing some carry-on policies.

But a few websites took that as “all American Airlines” as in all the airlines in America. Kind of a mess. 🙄

In any case, this is all to say that before you buy a new carry-on, check the airline’s website for their listed dimensions. That is the only factual source.

Or…

CARRY-ON MASTER LIST:

Take a look at our database of carry-on bags that will fit on each airline (free).

In this spreadsheet, we’ve consolidated not only all the airline carry-on sizes, but included a comprehensive list of specific bags that will fit on each airline.

We’re still working on adding as many bags (and airlines) as possible - but any changes/updates we make are in real-time.

I’m publishing a video today (Saturday) which will show you a little more about how it works.

DID YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS?

While doing some research for the carry-on master list, I came across this:

For some reason I didn’t know about it (slightly embarrassed about that…)

Amazon has a best-sellers list of carry-on luggage based on sales, which seems to be updated almost daily.

I do get asked about more budget-options, and there’s a lot of great ones there.

Here is the USA best-seller list and here is the CAN best-seller list.

TRIP ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Lastly, we are off to San Francisco in a couple of days for a really special trip!

You’re definitely going to want to catch the videos from this one.

We’re *hopefully* going to get to some places most people don’t get to see. It’ll make more sense in the video(s) 😋

In my last email I hinted at a few trips, so here they are:

  • Feb: SF
  • March: Arizona
  • April: ?? (this one still isn’t quite secured yet)
  • June: Quebec City
  • October: Japan!

GEAR OF THE WEEK:

Yep - I’m testing out yet another new carry-on and have high hopes:

It’s the Lipault Plume Cabin Spinner by Samsonite.

And I finally caved and bought this airplane phone holder to watch my shows without getting a sore neck.

Turns out it also doubles as a tripod?? I’m excited to see how this goes.

CHEAPEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS YEAR:

If you’re looking to plan a trip this year but don’t know where to go, this might help 👇

Skyscanner compiled a definitive list of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2025.

Cheapest Destinations from the U.S. for 2025:

Charlotte, NC - $95

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico - $122

Denver, CO - $158

Kailua-Kona, HI - $172

Phoenix, AZ - $206

Valparaiso, Chile - $212

San Diego, CA - $270

Calgary, Canada - $271

Madeira, Portugal - $273

Marsh Harbour, Bahamas - $295

Cheapest Destinations from Canada for 2025:

That’s all for now,

Aly

Some of my emails contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Aly Smalls

I'm Aly! A former Tourism Officer sharing unique travel itineraries, destination guides and all kinds of packing tips my blog and YouTube channel.

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