How large should my suitcase be? - Coolblue (2024)

How large should my suitcase be? - Coolblue (1)

Written by Annabel

You've booked your vacation. Now you want to find a suitcase the right size, but that turns out to be a challenge. It mostly depends on the kind of trip you've got planned. Camping for a week, a few weeks of fun in the sun, or going walkabout in Australia? Maybe you're someone who just likes to bring a lot of stuff? In that case, you'll need more room for your luggage that a city trip suitcase can offer. In this article, I'll help you find the right size suitcase.

Small to medium-sized suitcases

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Carry-on luggage suitcases: weekend trip

A small suitcase with a height under 56cm is suitable to carry onto a plane as carry-on luggage. These suitcases are perfect for short business trips or that city trip to Rome you've been thinking about. The suitcases have capacities of about 25 to 50 liters, which equals about 10kg of luggage.

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Medium-sized suitcases: 1 to 2-week trip

Medium-sized suitcases have a height of around 69cm. These suitcases are ideal for a week trip to Spain, or wherever you want to go to. The suitcases have a capacity of about 51 to 75L, which equals to about 10 to 15kg of luggage.

Large to extra large suitcases

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Large suitcases: 2 to 3-week trip

Large suitcases have a height of around 75cm. These suitcases are ideal for a 2 to 3-week trip, like to the French Riviera. The suitcases have a capacity of about 75 to 91L, which equals to about 15 to 20kg of luggage.

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Extra large suitcases: trips longer than 3 weeks

Extra large suitcases have a height of around 81cm. These suitcases are ideal for long trips. These suitcases can also be used for the luggage of 2 people. They have a capacity of more than 95L, which equals to more than 20kg of luggage.

Conclusion

Of course, the right size of suitcase also depends on how much you take with you on vacation. Someone might travel two weeks with a 70-liter capacity, while someone else might only need a 50-liter capacity for the same two weeks. The type of trip also matters. If you're going skiing In addition, there are also differences in what type of trip you are going to make. Are you going on a skiing or snowboarding? A larger suitcase is recommended because the clothing you need to bring is much thicker. Always keep this in mind when choosing a suitcase.

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How large should my suitcase be? - Coolblue (2024)

FAQs

How big of a suitcase do I need? ›

For a short trip or weekend getaway, a carry-on suitcase is often sufficient. For a one to two week vacation, a medium sized suitcase might be ideal. However, if you're traveling for several weeks or even months, you'll probably need a large or even extra-large suitcase.

Is a 28 inch suitcase too big to check? ›

It's important to note that some 28–32 inch suitcases might technically exceed the size limits for checked bags, leading to potential issues and additional fees. Always check the specific size limits set by your airline; usually, the maximum size for checked luggage is under 62 linear inches.

What is the largest size suitcase you can check on a plane? ›

For most airlines, the largest luggage size for check-in is 62 linear inches. This means the total length + width + depth must equal 62 inches or less. RELATED: Our luggage size guide takes the guesswork out of measuring your bags before you get on the plane.

Is 24 inch luggage big? ›

Can a 24 inch luggage be a carry on? Unfortunately no, the standard carry-on size is typically 22” x 14” x 9”, so a 24 inch bag is too large to bring on board of most economy standard airlines.

Is 27 inch luggage considered oversized? ›

25" - 27" Checked Luggage

These sizes are the most popular size of luggage to check. They are ideal for trips of 5 to 7 days, or longer, depending on how you pack. They have a large capacity for multiple outfits, shoes, and toiletries.

Is 32 inch luggage too big? ›

A 32-inch luggage bag is certainly large enough to carry all your essentials for an international trip, but it might not be the most practical choice for everyone. Here are some factors to consider: Airline Restrictions: Before purchasing a 32-inch checked luggage, checking your airline's baggage policy is essential.

What happens if my checked bag is 1 inch too big? ›

You put the baggage on a scale and measurement. If it exceeds a permitted number, you pay an extra amount of fee. It's that simple!

What is the TSA approved checked luggage size? ›

There is normally a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds per checked bag as well as a size restriction. The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27" x 21" x 14".

Is 29 inch luggage too big? ›

You can check in any size luggage, but the most common checked bags are larger than typical 22” x 14” carry-on bags. The most popular size check-in luggage is 25- to 29-inches tall and various widths. Medium-sized check-in luggage measures 25-26” tall and around 18” wide.

Can you fly with a 30 inch suitcase? ›

30-inch luggage is one of the largest options, so it's going to weigh more than a 26-inch one or your carry-on. Most airlines have a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds per checked bag. This limit does not take into account size, so 30-inch luggage needs to meet the same requirements as 26-inch luggage.

How do I know if my luggage is oversized? ›

Likewise, on American Airlines flights, a single piece exceeding a combined length + width + height of 62 inches (158 cm) is deemed oversized. Odd-sized items like sport equipment and musical instruments are also labeled as oversized.

What size suitcase should I take to Europe? ›

The most popular size check-in luggage is 63 to 69 cm tall and various widths. Medium-sized check-in luggage measures 63-64cm tall and around 45 cm wide. * One medium-sized suitcase will generally hold your needs for a week-long getaway.

What is the 3 1 suitcase rule? ›

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

How do I calculate my luggage size? ›

Most airlines measure check-in luggage in linear dimensions, which means the sum of the length, width and height. The most common linear limit for check-in luggage is 62 inches, though it's prudent to confirm.

What size suitcase for 7 days? ›

For a week-long trip, a medium-sized checked suitcase measuring around 23-24 inches would be an appropriate choice. This site will provide plenty of room for clothing and other essentials needed for a 7-day trip.

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