Suitcase Size Guide

When it comes to suitcases, there are three sizes to choose from: small, medium, and large. Each size has its own perks, but which one is right for you?

Small Suitcases

• Average small suitcase dimensions: H54 x W34 x D20 cm
• Classified as hand luggage/cabin bag
• To be fitted in the overhead locker of the aircraft
• Ideal for a weekend getaway or couple of days travel (and enough room for your dresses and staple jeans)

Medium Suitcases

• Average medium luggage dimensions: H67 x W45.5 x D26 cm
• Classified as check-in bag
• Ideal for a week-long holiday

Large Suitcases

• Average large suitcase dimension: H77 x W52.5 x D29 cm or larger
• Classified as check-in bag
• Ideal for family trips or longer stays

Personal Item (Under Seat Bag)

• Average dimensions: H40 x W20 x D25 cm
• Classified as free on-board luggage
• Ideal for keeping all your travel toiletries and must-haves close at hand during your flight (or budget-friendly packing)

How to Measure a Suitcase

Ready to ensure your suitcase is the right size for your next flight? Here's what you need to do:

• Check the airline luggage size requirements before measuring and ensure you are checking the right cm or inches unit.

Measuring height of your suitcase:

• Empty your suitcase and stand it upright.
• Using a measuring tape, start from the ground and measure to the top of the suitcase keeping the tape as straight as possible. Be sure to keep the handle collapsed and include the wheels and pockets.

Measuring depth of your suitcase:

• Using a measuring tape, measure the side from the back to the front.

How to measure the capacity of your suitcase:

• Multiply the height, width and depth measurements together to get the total volume of the suitcase.

For example: 55 (Height) x 40 (Width) x 20 (Depth)

*Remember to check the airline luggage size requirements before measuring and ensure you are checking the right cm or inches unit.

FAQs

What size suitcase do I need for one week?

If you're travelling for 7-10 days, then we recommend a medium suitcase measuring between 65-70cm.

What size suitcase do I need for two weeks?

You will need a suitcase with some serious space! Look at large suitcases with a capacity up to 23kg.

What size suitcase is a carry-on?

A carry on (or cabin bag) size requirement may differ from airline to airline. Typically it’s around 45-50cm in height and 40-45cm in width — the perfect size to keep all your essentials at hand.

Is a carry-on enough for two weeks?

Yes, a carry-on can be enough for two weeks if you can fit all your essentials in the suitcase. Packing cubes are an ideal solution for efficiently packing your belongings . You can read our guide on how to use packing cubes (this will link to article 2)  to help with this.

What is the most popular suitcase size?

The most common suitcase sizes measure around 55x35x20cm.

Largest luggage size for check-in?

Large suitcases can measure up to 80cm x 55cm. Just keep in mind that airlines have different maximum size limits for checked bags.

What size suitcase is best for 23kg?

Aim for a medium to large-sized suitcase, which should give you plenty of space to pack up to 23kg of essentials for your trip.

What size suitcase is 15kg luggage?

A small to medium-sized suitcase with a capacity of 40-60 litres should do the trick for a 15kg limit.

What size suitcase is best for 20kg?

A medium-sized piece of luggage is about right for a 20kg suitcase allowance.

What size suitcase is best for 22kg?

Go for a medium-sized suitcase (H67 x W45.5 x D26 cm) with a capacity of 60-80 litres if you have a limit of 22kg.

What size suitcase do I need for 23kg?

Aim for a medium to large-sized suitcase. Typically, a 23kg suitcase size will have the following measurements: H 71-81 x W 43-51 x D 26-30 cm.

Do you include the wheels when measuring a suitcase?

Be sure to count the wheels when measuring your luggage as it automatically makes a suitcase a few centimetres taller.