Susan Foster, author of Smart Packing for Today's Traveler, says to see luggage trends, don't watch the airlines. Instead turn to the luggage manufacturers.
Though airlines say their spaces for carry-on luggage are larger, they don't seem to be. But manufacturers are bringing out luggage designed to fit into small spaces, including tiny overheads or even under an economy-class seat.
The Briggs & Riley carry-on is now 13 x 15.5 x 9 inches. But the Baseline Rolling Cabin Bag ($349) is full-featured. And Eagle Creek's EC Adventure Pop Top Carry-On ($235) begins at 14 x 13.75 x 9 inches but extends to full-size carry-on if needed.
Experts at USA Today say manufacturers are doing us a favor by encouraging us to downsize. Most travel in the U.S. is by car, and smaller sized bags allow us to pack more of them in the trunk.