There are a few things to consider when choosing the right suitcase size. My overview of the 4 standard suitcase sizes will help you with your decision. At the end of the article you will find answers to frequently asked questions. You are also welcome to ask your question in the comments.
About the author
My name is Sebastian and I write about luggage since 2017. I am always on the hunt for the best suitcases.
Suitcase Size Guide
There are 4 average suitcase sizes:
Since there are no fixed suitcase sizes, I compared the dimensions of the most popular suitcases and determined average values. The sizes given are therefore only intended as a guide and may vary slightly.
The specified travel time can vary greatly depending on the type of trip and personal preferences.
For a week-long beach holiday, a size M suitcase should easily suffice. For a one-week ski holiday, however, a size L suitcase can make sense.
When choosing the right suitcase size, also consider whether you are more of a minimalist or would like to take a little more luggage with you.
An overview of the suitcase sizes
Average use of the different sizes
Size S – Carry-on Suitcase
The suitcase size S is suitable for short trips of up to 3 days. I personally use this suitcase size in summer when traveling for up to 5 days in combination with a backpack. Luggage of this size can be taken on board most airlines. Therefore, the size S is also referred to as hand luggage. The permitted dimensions vary depending on the airline and are around 55x40x20 cm.
Size M – Small Checked Luggage
The suitcase size M is referred to as small checked luggage. Suitcases of this size must be checked in when traveling by plane. I recommend the size M for a trip of about 1 week. For trips where only a little luggage is needed (e.g. beach vacation), this size can also be enough for up to 2 weeks.
Size L – Large Checked Luggage
Suitcase size L must also be checked in when traveling by plane. It is suitable for trips of approx. 2 weeks. Depending on the type of trip, you can easily travel up to 3 weeks or even longer with this size.
Size XL – Extra Large Suitcase
The suitcase size XL is recommended for longer trips of 2 to 3 weeks. For air travel, however, the size XL is only suitable to a limited extent. For most airlines, it is too large and cannot be easily checked in. The suitcase counts as bulky luggage and additional fees may apply. Go to: 62 inch Luggage
62 inch Luggage
Maximum Dimensions of Checked Luggage
The 158 cm rule refers to the maximum permitted suitcase size for check-in luggage when traveling by air. The given 158 cm mean the combined dimensions. It is calculated by adding width, height and depth.
62 inch Luggage – How to Measure?
Width + height + depth = 62 inches (158 cm)
The maximum allowed size of a piece of luggage is not the same for all airlines. It is therefore essential to find out about the exact regulations of your airline before you travel.
Calculating Suitcase Size – An Example
Suppose you are looking for the largest possible suitcase and have decided on my test winner Samsonite Neopulse. Because you want to comply with the 158 cm rule, you fluctuate between sizes L and XL. The two models have the following dimensions:
Size L (75) measures 75x51x28 cm. The combined dimensions are:
30 + 20 + 11 = 61 in (75 + 51 + 28 = 154 cm)
Size XL (81) measures 81x54x30 cm. The combined dimensions are:
32 + 21 + 12 = 65 in (81 + 54 + 30 = 165 cm)
Result: While the size L corresponds to the 158cm rule, the size XL is slightly larger and may not be used as checked baggage on some airlines.
Important: Always include wheels and handles in your measurements!
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about suitcase sizes
What is the size of 23kg luggage bag?
A suitcase of size M (50 – 80 litres) or size L (80 – 100 litres) is suitable for 23 kg of luggage. The right size depends on whether you plan to pack many light items or a few heavy ones. For maximizing the weight limit of 23 kg, particularly for trips lasting 2 to 3 weeks, I recommend choosing the large size (Size L).
What size of suitcase do I need for 1 week?
For a journey of 1 week, a size M suitcase is usually sufficient. This suitcase size has a volume of around 50 to 80 litres. If you have to take a lot of luggage with you (e.g. on a winter holiday) the size L with approx. 80 to 100 litres can also be worthwhile.
What size of suitcase do I need for 2 weeks?
For a trip of 2 weeks, I recommend suitcase size L. Suitcases of this size usually have a volume of around 80 to 100 litres. Even larger suitcases usually exceed the 158 cm rule (see above) and are therefore too large for many airlines and cannot be checked in without additional charges.
What size suitcase is a carry-on?
There are no standard rules for the size of hand luggage. Each airline determines the dimensions and weight of hand luggage individually. The unofficial standard is the size of 55x40x20 cm. Suitcases of this size can be taken on board with almost all airlines.
Is a carry-on enough for 2 weeks?
I would say no. A carry-on suitcase is more intended for short trips of a maximum of 3 to 5 days. Only if you need very little luggage and perhaps have the opportunity to do laundry at the destination, then a carry-on suitcase can be sufficient.
What is the maximum weight for a suitcase on an airplane?
Unfortunately, there are no uniform regulations on how much a suitcase can weigh on an airplane. The allowed weight depends on the airline and the booked fare. The following information is for guidance:
- Normal baggage must not weigh more than 32 kg. Heavier luggage must be transported as cargo.
- Most airlines allow checked baggage to weigh a maximum of 20 to 23 kg. Baggage up to 32 kg can be checked in on higher-priced fares.
- Hand luggage can usually weigh between 6 and 10 kg.
