ORDER NOW FOR FREE DELIVERY AND 20% PRE-ORDER REWARD
  1. Home
  2. Journal
  3. Suitcase Size Guide

Suitcase Size Guide

Elevate your travel experience. The definitive airline luggage and suitcase size guide for discerning travellers who pack with purpose.

Strength & Honour

SUITCASEƎ luggage beetle triangle luxury  designer travel gear logo sticker red yellow

CONTENTS

Luggage Size Guide

SUITCASEƎ

Airline Size Regulations

SUITCASEƎ

Standard Packing Guide

SUITCASEƎ

Key Dimensions Explained

SUITCASEƎ

Understanding Luggage Types

SUITCASEƎ

Packing Recommendations

SUITCASEƎ

Tips for Optimal Packing

SUITCASEƎ

Frequently Asked Questions

SUITCASEƎ

Join the Journey

SUITCASEƎ


Stay tuned for our eco-friendly luggage rental services


Quick Guide for Suitcase Sizes

Selecting the right luggage is a significant part of ensuring a successful travel experience. With SUITCASEƎ's premium quality offerings, you can travel in style while keeping your belongings safe and organised. This comprehensive guide will cover suitcase sizing, optimal packing strategies, airline regulations, and general guidelines for packing outfits based on luggage types.

Suitcase Size Guide at a Glance

Luggage Sizes & Packing Guidelines

Airline Size Regulations

Standard Packing Guide

Key Dimensions Explained

Luggage Types

Packing Recommendations

Tips for Packing

Standard Luggage Case Sizes and Packing Guidelines

Explore the ideal luggage sizes and expert packing tips to ensure a hassle-free journey every time.

Luggage Type

Small Carry-On *

Medium Check-In **

Large Check-In ***

Garment Bag ****

Dimensions (H x W x D)

Up to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm *

60cm x 40cm x 25cm **

Up to 75cm x 50cm x 30cm ***

100cm x 50cm ****

Volume (litres)

40-50 litres *

70-80 litres **

90-100 litres ***

Varies ****

Days of Travel

2-3 days *

5-7 days **

10+ days ***

Varies ****

Airline Size Regulations

Understanding airline-specific luggage policies is vital to avoid unexpected fees.

British Airways

Small Underseat

Maximum dimensions: H40 x W30 x D15cm; Max weight: 23kg


Cabin Bags

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W45 x D25cm; Max weight: 23kg


Hold Luggage
Maximum dimensions: H90 x W75 x D43cm; Max weight: 23-32kg

Image Description

EasyJet

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H45 x W36 x D20cm; Max weight: 15kg

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W45 x D25cm; Max weight: 15kg

Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 275cm total; Max weight: 23-32kg

Image Description

Ryanair

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H40 x W20 x D25cm; Max weight: 10kg

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D20cm; Max weight: 10kg

Checked Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H80 x W120 x D120cm; Max weight: 10-20kg

Image Description

Virgin Atlantic

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W36 x D23cm; Max weight: 10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H90 x W75 x D43cm; Max weight: 23kg

Image Description

Emirates

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W38 x D20cm; Max weight: 7-10kg

Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 150cm total; Max weight: 20-32kg

Image Description

American Airlines

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H45 x W35 x D20 cm

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W36 x D23 cm


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Lufthansa

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H40 x W30 x D10cm
Cabin Bag

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23cm; Max weight: 8kg

Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158cm total; Max weight: 23kg

Image Description

Delta Air Lines

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W35 x D23 cm


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

KLM

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H40xW30xD15 cm

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23cm; Max weight: 10-15kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max Weight 23-32 kg

Image Description

TUI

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D20cm; Max weight: 10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Any Size; Max weight: 15-23kg

Image Description

Air France

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H30 x W40 x D15cm

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W35 x D25cm; Max weight: 12-18kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158cm total; Max weight: 23-32kg

Image Description

Iberia

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions; H40 x W30 x D15 cm


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W40 x D25 cm; Max weight 10-14kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Turkish Airlines

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W45 x D25cm; Max weight: 10kg

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23cm; Max weight: 8kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158cm total; Max weight: 23-32kg

Image Description

Norwegian Air

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H30 x W20 x D38cm; Max weight: 10kg

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23cm; Max weight: 10-15kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H250 x W79 x D112cm; Max Weight: 23-32kg

Image Description

Etihad Airways

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions with Purchase of Cabin Bag; H23 x W39 x D19 cm; Max weight 5 kg


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W36 x D23 cm; Max weight 7-12 kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H90 x W72 x D42 cm; Max weight 32kg

Image Description

Air Canada

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H33 x W43 x D16 cm

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23 cm ; Light enough to store in overhead storage unassisted.


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under158 cm ; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Jet2

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W45 x D25cm; Max weight: 10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Any Size; Max weight: 22-32kg

Image Description

SAS

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions; H40 x W30 x D15 cm


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23 cm; Max weight 8kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Air China

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions:  H55 x W40 x D20 cm ; Max weight 5-8kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Wizz Air

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H40 x W30 x D20cm; Max weight: 10kg

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23cm; Max weight: 10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H149 x W171 x D119cm; Max weight: 10-32kg

Image Description

United Airlines

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions; H43 x W25 x D22 cm


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H56 x W35 x D23 cm; Max weight 8 kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158 cm; Max weight 23 kg

Image Description

Aer Lingus

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H25 x W33 x D20cm

Cabin Bag (General Flights)

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D24cm; Max weight: 7-10kg


Cabin Bag (Regional Flights)

Maximum dimensions: H48 x W33 x D20cm; Max weight: 7-10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158cm total; Max weight: 20-40kg

Image Description

Finnair

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions; H40 x W30 x D15 cm; Max weight 5 kg


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D23 cm; Max weight 8-12 kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: H90 x W75 x D45 cm; Max weight 23-32kg

Image Description

Vueling

Small Underseat Bag

Maximum dimensions: H40 x W30 x D20cm

Cabin Bag

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W40 x D20cm; Max weight: 10kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under 158cm total; Max weight: 15-30kg

Image Description

LATAM Airlines

Small Underseat Bag
Maximum dimensions; H45 x W35 x D20 cm


Cabin Bags 

Maximum dimensions: H55 x W35 x D25 cm; Max weight 10-16kg


Hold Luggage

Maximum dimensions: Under158 cm; Max weight 23kg

Image Description

Standard Packing Guide

Discover your ideal travel companion with our luggage and packing guide.

Luggage Type

Small Carry-On *


Medium Check-In **


Large Check-In ***


Garment Bag ****

Days of Travel

2-3 days *


5-7 days **


10+ days ***


Varies ****

Number of Outfits

3-5 outfits *


7-10 outfits **


10-14 outfits ***


N/A ****

Products

Luggage Highlights

Silver SUITCASEƎ Globetrotter Aluminium Cabin Bag

SUITCASEƎ GS Aluminium Carry-On Suitcase Silver

Full Price £649
Pre-Order Price £519

SUITCASEƎ Biarritz Blue Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase

SUITCASEƎ ES-B Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase Blue

Full Price £599

Pre-Order Price £479 

Silver SUITCASEƎ Origin 2 Aluminium check-in suitcase

SUITCASEƎ OS-2 Aluminium Medium Check-In Suitcase Silver

Full Price £649

Pre-Order Price £519

Black SUITCASEƎ La Palma Red Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase

SUITCASEƎ ES-LP Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase Red

Full Price £599

Pre-Order Price £479 

Key Dimensions Explained

SUITCASEƎ

Height, Width, and Depth


For precise measurements of your luggage, it is crucial to measure the outer dimensions of your bags, taking into account all elements such as wheels and handles. This attention to detail is essential for ensuring compliance with airline requirements, as each airline has specific size restrictions for both carry-on and checked luggage. By including the wheels and handles in your measurements, you can avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport, such as additional fees or the need to check a bag that could have otherwise met the size criteria.

Aluminium travel luggage sizing

Volume Capacity


Volume, expressed in litres, is a key indicator of how much a suitcase can hold, helping travellers choose the right bag for their specific needs. For short trips, a suitcase with a volume of 40-50 litres is generally sufficient, allowing you to pack just the essentials without overloading yourself. This size is perfect for weekend getaways or brief business trips, where you’ll need enough space for clothing and toiletries while still keeping your luggage manageable.


On the other hand, suitcases with a volume of 70-100 litres are designed to cater to longer journeys, providing ample storage for everything you might need during an extended stay. These larger bags offer the flexibility to pack extra outfits, shoes, and personal items, ensuring you’re well-prepared for various occasions.

Travel Smart, Travel Stylish

Understanding Luggage Types

SUITCASEƎ

Carry-On Luggage


Carry-on bags are expertly crafted to offer a compact yet spacious solution for travellers seeking convenience and accessibility. Designed to fit seamlessly into the overhead compartment or snugly beneath the seat in front of you, these cabin bags are perfect for keeping your essentials within easy reach. Typically measuring up to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, carry-on luggage strikes an ideal balance between size and capacity, allowing you to maximise your packing without the hassle of checked baggage.


Check-In Luggage


Checked bags are spacious suitcases designed to travel securely in the cargo hold of an aircraft, allowing you to bring along everything you need for your journey. Typically ranging from 60cm to 80cm in height, these larger bags provide increased capacity, making them the perfect choice for travellers embarking on extended trips or family holidays. With check-in luggage, you can pack everything from clothing and toiletries to sports equipment and souvenirs without worrying about space constraints.


Specialty Luggage


This category encompasses a diverse range of travel solutions, including garment bags specifically designed for formal attire, duffel bags tailored for sports equipment, and much more. The garment bags offer a sophisticated way to transport your suits, dresses, or business attire, keeping them wrinkle-free and ready for important events. Meanwhile, the duffel bags provide ample space and easy access for your athletic gear, making them ideal for trips to the gym or weekend sports retreats.

Travel Smart, Travel Stylish

Packing Recommendations

SUITCASEƎ

Cabin Bag


A cabin or carry-on bag is an indispensable travel companion, perfect for short trips or as an addition to checked luggage. Designed to fit in overhead compartments, it allows you to keep essential items close at hand, such as travel documents, electronics, and a change of clothes. When packing your carry-on, prioritise necessities to ensure you're prepared for unexpected delays or changes in travel plans.


To maximise space and convenience, include items that cater to your immediate needs upon arrival, such as a lightweight jacket, headphones for entertainment, and travel-sized toiletries. Packing organisers can help keep everything tidy and accessible. By thoughtfully selecting what goes into your cabin bag, you can enjoy a seamless travel experience with all your essentials right within reach.


Medium Check-In Suitcases


A medium check-in suitcase is the ideal choice for a week-long holiday, providing ample space to comfortably pack everything you need for an enjoyable trip. This size allows you to bring along multiple outfits, toiletries, shoes, and accessories without feeling cramped. When preparing for your getaway, aim to include seven to ten outfits, ensuring you have enough variety to suit different events and activities throughout your stay.


When packing, consider the types of activities you have planned; including a mix of casual wear, formal attire for special occasions, and comfortable options for relaxation will ensure you’re well-prepared. Don't forget to include essential toiletries and a couple of pairs of shoes that complement your outfits. Accessories such as scarves or jewellery can also enhance your looks without taking up much space. 

aluminium check-in suitcase

Products

Luggage Highlights

SUITCASEƎ Origin Aluminium Carry-On suitcase in silver

SUITCASEƎ OS Aluminium Carry-On Suitcase Silver

Full Price £549
Pre-Order Price £439

Black SUITCASEƎ Expedition Series Rapa Nui Red Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase

SUITCASEƎ ES-RN Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase Red

Full Price £599

Pre-Order Price £479 

SUITCASEƎ Origin 2 Aluminium Large Check-In suitcase in silver

SUITCASEƎ OS-2 Aluminium Large Check-In Suitcase Silver

Full Price £719

Pre-Order Price £575

Black SUITCASEƎ Expedition Series Dimond Black Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase

SUITCASEƎ ES-D Waterproof Carry-On Suitcase Black

Full Price £599

Pre-Order Price £479

Large Check-In Suitcases


A large check-in suitcase is the ultimate choice for extended vacations or family trips, offering generous space to accommodate all your essential belongings. This size is particularly advantageous for those travelling with multiple family members or embarking on a lengthy adventure, as it allows you to pack ten to fourteen outfits comfortably, ensuring everyone has enough clothing options for various activities and occasions.


In addition to clothing, a large check-in suitcase provides ample room for bulky items such as jackets, shoes, and even sports gear, making it easier to stay prepared for any situation. When packing, consider organising your outfits by category—casual wear, formal attire, and swimwear—to streamline your selection process during your trip. Furthermore, utilising packing cubes or compression bags can help maximise space and keep your belongings neat and accessible.


Garment Bags


A garment bag is an essential travel accessory for anyone needing to transport formal attire without the worry of wrinkles. Designed specifically for this purpose, it provides a protective and organised way to carry suits, dresses, or other delicate garments, ensuring they arrive at your destination looking pristine. While a garment bag may not accommodate everyday outfits, its specialised design is crucial for maintaining the elegance of your formal wear during travel.


When planning your packing strategy, it’s beneficial to pair a garment bag with a small carry-on suitcase. This combination allows you to transport your formal attire while also having space for additional clothing and personal items. For instance, you can pack your suit or dress in the garment bag, while the carry-on holds your casual outfits, toiletries, and accessories needed for your trip.

Travel Smart, Travel Stylish

Tips for Optimal Packing

SUITCASEƎ

Packing Techniques


Utilising rolling techniques for packing your clothes is a highly effective way to save space in your suitcase while also minimising wrinkles. By rolling items such as t-shirts, casual trousers, and lightweight dresses, you can optimise the available space, allowing you to fit more into your luggage without compromising on what you bring. This method not only maximises packing efficiency but also helps to prevent creasing, keeping your garments looking fresh and ready to wear upon arrival.


Use of Packing Cubes


Packing cubes are an invaluable tool for organising your items within your suitcase, offering a systematic approach to packing that can significantly enhance your travel experience. By compartmentalising your belongings, packing cubes not only help you optimise space but also make it much easier to locate essentials quickly. This is especially beneficial when you're on the go and need to access specific items without rummaging through your entire suitcase.

To Sum Up

SUITCASEƎ

Travelling can be a seamless and enjoyable experience when you're equipped with the right luggage and packing strategies. By understanding luggage types, airline regulations, and optimal packing techniques, you can ensure that your belongings are organised, secure, and compliant with airline policies. Whether you're embarking on a short business trip or an extended family holiday, selecting the appropriate suitcase size and packing efficiently will help you travel in style and comfort. Remember to stay informed about airline-specific rules to avoid unnecessary fees and delays. Embrace these tips, and you'll be ready for your next adventure with confidence and ease.

REGULARLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled some commonly asked questions

How can I maximise space when packing?

Use packing techniques like rolling clothes, packing cubes, and filling shoes with small items such as socks or accessories to make use of every inch of space available.

What should I do if my luggage exceeds weight limits?

Reassess your packing and consider removing non-essential items. You may also distribute weight between bags if necessary.

Are there restrictions on liquids in carry-on luggage?

Yes, most airlines follow the "3-1-1" rule: liquids must be in containers no larger than 100ml, all containers must fit into a single clear plastic bag of up to one litre capacity.

Can I bring a backpack in addition to my carry-on?

Most airlines allow an additional personal item such as a backpack or handbag as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. Check specific airline policies for size limitations.

How can I prevent luggage damage during flights?

Use protective covers or plastic wrap, opt for hard-shell suitcases, and ensure zippers are fully closed. Avoid overpacking to reduce strain on the suitcase.

What types of items should I pack in my carry-on?

Pack essentials in your carry-on, including travel documents, medications, valuable items like electronics, toiletries (under liquid restrictions), a change of clothes, and any in-flight necessities.

Luggage Rental Wait List

Get Notified

What suitcase size is best for a one-week trip?

For a journey lasting between 7 to 10 days, it is ideal to use a medium-sized suitcase that measures approximately 65 to 70cm. This size provides ample space for packing essentials and ensures convenience during travel.

Is a carry-on sufficient for two weeks?

Yes, a carry-on can suffice if packed efficiently. Packing cubes are recommended to maximise space for essentials like bikinis and dresses. Explore our guide on packing cubes for tips.

What are the dimensions for a carry-on suitcase?

While sizes differ by airline, carry-ons typically measure 45 to 50cm in height and 40 to 45cm in width. These dimensions are ideal for keeping essential items within easy reach during your flight.

Which suitcase size fits a 15kg allowance?

When travelling with a weight limit of 15kg, opting for a small to medium-sized suitcase with a capacity ranging from 40 to 60 litres is advisable. This size should comfortably accommodate your belongings while helping you adhere to the specified weight restriction.

What suitcase size is best for 20kg?

For a luggage allowance of 20kg, choosing a medium-sized suitcase is appropriate. This size offers sufficient space to pack your items while staying within the weight limit, ensuring a balanced and efficient travel experience.

What size suitcase should I choose for two weeks?

When you require ample space for your belongings, it's wise to consider using large suitcases designed to accommodate up to a 23kg capacity. Such suitcases provide the necessary room to pack everything you need while ensuring you stay within the weight limits typically imposed by airlines.

What's the best suitcase size for 23kg?

When preparing for a trip where you need to pack up to 23kg of items, opting for a medium to large suitcase is advisable. This size offers sufficient space to accommodate your belongings while allowing you to organise them efficiently. It strikes a balance between capacity and manageability, ensuring you have enough room without becoming cumbersome.

What dimensions are suitable for a 23kg suitcase?

When selecting luggage, aim for medium to large sizes, which typically measure between 71 to 81cm in height, 43 to 51cm in width, and 26 to 30cm in depth. These dimensions provide ample space for your belongings, making them ideal for extended trips or when you need to pack more items.

What's the right size for a 22kg luggage limit?

For those planning a trip, it is recommended to use a medium-sized suitcase with dimensions of approximately 67cm in height, 45.5cm in width, and 26cm in depth. This size typically offers a capacity between 60 to 80 litres, which is sufficient for packing a variety of items while maintaining easy manoeuvrability. This makes it an ideal choice for travellers who need a balance between space and convenience.

What's the most popular suitcase size?

Suitcases commonly measure around 55cm in height, 35cm in width, and 20cm in depth. These dimensions are typical for carry-on luggage, providing a compact size suitable for overhead compartments on planes while offering enough space for essential items during short trips.

What's the largest dimensions for check-in luggage?

Large suitcases can reach dimensions of up to 80cm in height and 55cm in width, providing ample space for packing a substantial amount of belongings. However, it's important to be aware that airline size limits can vary significantly. It's advisable to check the specific luggage restrictions of the airline you'll be flying with to ensure your suitcase complies with their requirements and avoid potential issues at check-in.

Should I include wheels in suitcase measurements?

Yes, it's crucial to always include the wheels when measuring luggage, as they can add several centimetres to the overall height. This consideration is particularly important when ensuring your suitcase meets the size restrictions imposed by airlines. Neglecting to account for the wheels might lead to your luggage exceeding the allowable dimensions, potentially resulting in additional fees or the need to check it in rather than carrying it on.

Join the journey

Sign up for a newsletter worth reading