Suitcase Size Guide

Choosing the right suitcase size makes travelling easier from packing at home to check in at the airport. 

 

One of the most common questions we are asked at Case is which suitcase size is best for my trip.

 

This guide breaks down suitcase dimensions, packing capacity, and which size works best for different travel lengths, so you can choose with confidence.
Title

Underseater Guide

Cabin Luggage Guide

Check in Luggage Guide

Travel Backpack
Guide

Duffle and Holdall Guide 

Airline Regulations
Title

What Do Suitcase Dimensions Actually Include?

Most suitcase dimensions listed on caseluggage.com are external measurements.

 

This means they include:

  • Wheels
  • Top carry handle
  • Side handle

They do not include the telescopic trolley handle when extended.

 

Height is usually measured from the bottom of the wheels to the top carry handle. Width often includes the side handle. Where a product is measured without wheels, this is clearly stated on the product page.

 

As a general rule, wheels add around 5 to 6 centimetres to the overall height.

 

If you are replacing an older suitcase with integrated wheels, keep in mind that modern four wheel cases usually have slightly less internal packing space. 

 

This is because the wheels are mounted externally to improve manoeuvrability.
Title

Which Suitcase Size Is Right for My Trip?

The best suitcase for your holiday depends on:

• Trip length
• Destination and climate
• Your packing style

Below is the simple sizing guide we often recommend in store.

Cabin suitcases
Ideal for 1 to 2 days
Typical height around 55cm

Medium suitcases
Ideal for 2 to 7 days
Typical height around 65cm

Large suitcases
Ideal for 7 to 10 days

Typical height around 76cm

Extra large suitcases
Ideal for trips over 14 days

Typical height around 81cm
Title

Suitcase Size Comparison Chart

If you are unsure which suitcase size to choose, this comparison chart shows the typical dimensions, capacity and trip length for each type.
Suitcase Size Typical Height Capacity Best For
Cabin 50 to 56 cm 30 to 45 litres 1 to 3 day trips, short breaks
Medium 60 to 67 cm 60 to 80 litres 3 to 7 day holidays
Large 70 to 77 cm 90 to 110 litres 7 to 10 day trips
Extra Large 80 to 82 cm 110 to 140 litres 10 to 14 day holidays or longer

Suitcase sizes can vary slightly between brands, but most luggage falls within these general ranges.

For air travel, always check airline size and weight limits before you fly.
Title

How Much Can I Fit in a Suitcase?

Packing capacity is measured in litres. This gives a better idea of usable space than dimensions alone.

Packing Capacity Guide

35 to 40 Litres:

4 shirts

1 toiletry bag

2 pairs of shoes

2 trousers

1 coat

70 to 80 Litres:

14 shirts

2 toiletry bags

4 pairs of shoes

4 trousers

1 coat

80-100 Litres:

20 Shirts
2 Toiletry bags
6 Pairs of shoes
6 Trousers
2 Coats

100-120 Litres:

20 Shirts
2 Toiletry bags
6 Pairs of shoes
6 Trousers
2 Coats

120-130 Litres:

24 Shirts
2 Toiletry bags
6 Pairs of shoes
8 Trousers
2 Coats

130-140 Litres:

30 Shirts
2 Toiletry bags
7 Pairs of shoes
10 Trousers
2 Coats

Packing styles vary, but this gives a realistic guide based on everyday travel.
Title

Understanding Different Types of Luggage

If you travel frequently, it helps to understand the difference between underseat, cabin, and check in luggage.

Underseat luggage

Underseat bags are designed to fit under the seat in front of you. 

 

They are ideal for very short trips, business travel, or airlines with stricter cabin allowances.

 

See our full Underseat Luggage Size Guide.

Cabin luggage

Cabin suitcases travel with you in the aircraft cabin and are stored in the overhead lockers.

 

See our full Cabin Luggage Size Guide.

Check in luggage

Check in suitcases are placed in the aircraft hold and are typically used for longer holidays or when you need more packing space.

 

See the Check in Luggage Size Guide.

Each type of luggage has different airline size rules.
Title

FAQ's About Suitcase Size Guide

Do suitcase wheels count towards the size?

Yes. The dimensions shown on caseluggage.com are usually external measurements and include wheels and carry handles. Wheels typically add around 5 to 6 centimetres to the overall height, so always factor this in when choosing a size.

Are suitcase dimensions measured with handles included?

Yes. Height is normally measured from the bottom of the wheels to the top carry handle. Width often includes the side handle. The telescopic trolley handle is not included when extended. If a product is measured without wheels, this will be clearly stated on the product page.

What size suitcase do I need for a two week holiday?

For most travellers, a large or extra large suitcase is the best option for a two week trip. This gives enough space for clothing, footwear, and seasonal layers without overpacking. If you are a lighter packer, a large suitcase may still be sufficient.

Is underseat luggage smaller than cabin luggage?

Yes. Underseat suitcases are designed to fit under the seat in front of you and are smaller than standard cabin cases. They are ideal for short trips, business travel, or airlines with stricter cabin allowances.

How do I know if my suitcase is the right size for my trip?

Start by considering your trip length, destination, and packing style. Use litres to compare internal capacity and centimetres to compare external size. For air travel, always check airline requirements before flying, as allowances vary.

Why does my new suitcase feel smaller than my old one?

 

Many older cases had integrated wheels, which gave more internal space. Modern four wheel suitcases have externally mounted wheels for smoother movement, which can slightly reduce packing capacity despite similar external dimensions.
Title

Discover More

Choosing the right luggage size is only one part of planning a trip. Our expert guides help you travel with confidence.

 

Cabin Luggage Size Guide
Learn standard cabin suitcase dimensions and airline restrictions.

 

Check-in Luggage Size Guide
Everything you need to know about hold luggage sizes and weight limits.

 

Underseat Luggage Size Guide
Understand airline underseat limits and the best bags for short trips.

 

Travel Backpack Guide
Discover the best backpacks for travel, commuting and weekend trips.

 

Duffle & Holdall Travel Guide
A practical guide to choosing the right duffle or holdall.

 

Airline Regulations
Understand baggage rules across different airlines.