What Size Suitcase Do You Need For Your Trip?

Choosing the right suitcase size can be confusing, especially with so many options and varying needs based on trip length and purpose. Too small, and you risk leaving essentials behind; too large, and you might face baggage fees or struggle with bulky luggage.

In this guide, we’ll break down suitcase sizes and provide practical tips for choosing the perfect luggage for your travel needs, whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a lengthy vacation.

You’ll learn how to match your suitcase to your trip’s duration, destination, and airline requirements, ensuring a smooth, worry-free travel experience.

Hand Luggage/Carry-On (Up to 55 cm)

Hand luggage like travel backpacks or carry-on suitcases are a popular choice for short trips lasting 1 to 3 days. Their compact size makes them easy to handle and ensures compliance with most airline cabin baggage restrictions.

This type of luggage is ideal for business travellers or those taking weekend getaways who prefer to skip the check-in line and baggage claim.

Key Features and Benefits

• Convenience and Speed: With a carry-on, you can board and disembark faster without waiting for checked baggage.
• Packing Essentials: The space is limited but sufficient for a few outfits, toiletries, and gadgets. Efficient packing strategies, like using organisers or packing cubes, help maximise available room.
• Flexibility: Most carry-ons fit within the standard overhead compartments, minimising the risk of having to gate-check your bag.

Airline Compatibility

While dimensions may vary slightly across airlines, the typical carry-on is within 55 cm in height and under 7 kg in weight. Always check the specific airline’s guidelines before traveling.

Packing Tips

• Focus on lightweight, versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched
• Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles
• Use travel-size toiletries and consider dual-purpose items, like a scarf that can double as a blanket
• Ensure electronics, documents, and other essentials are easily accessible in case of security checks

Medium Suitcases (56-69 cm)

Medium hard suitcases strike a perfect balance between capacity and portability, making them ideal for trips lasting 3 to 7 days. They provide ample room for clothing, shoes, toiletries, and additional travel essentials without becoming overly cumbersome to carry.

These suitcases comfortably accommodate a week's worth of outfits, including a mix of casual, formal, and activity-specific clothing. They are also suitable for adding a few pairs of shoes and bulkier items like jackets.

Travel Versatility

Medium suitcases excel in their versatility, being ideal for various types of travel including domestic flights, road trips, or train journeys. Their size is manageable enough for quick hotel check-ins while still offering substantial storage space.

Practical Features

Many medium suitcases come with expandable sections that allow you to increase capacity when needed. Additional features like internal compartments, compression straps, and dividers help keep items organised, especially when packing for diverse activities. 

Packing Tips

• Arrange items by category (e.g., clothes, shoes, toiletries) to make unpacking easier
• Use compression bags to save space for bulkier clothing like sweaters.
• Consider rolling casual clothes while folding more structured garments to avoid creases
• Prioritise accessibility by placing frequently used items in exterior or easily reachable compartments

Large Suitcases (70-85 cm)

Large hard shell suitcases are perfect for extended trips, typically lasting two weeks or more. They provide ample storage space for packing a wide range of clothing, accessories, and gear, making them ideal for long vacations, international journeys, or family trips.

Key Features & Benefits 

These suitcases can comfortably hold bulkier items like coats, formalwear, or multiple pairs of shoes. Look for options with sturdy wheels, reinforced handles, and expandable compartments to enhance durability and versatility while traveling.

Packing Tips:

• Use packing cubes to organise various items efficiently
• Roll heavier garments to save space and reduce wrinkles
• Distribute weight evenly for easier handling, especially when moving through airports and transit hubs

Choosing the Right Suitcase for Your Trip