How to Choose the Right Suitcase Size?

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, you always want to pack your suitcase as fully as possible to avoid the worry of forgetting something. Choosing the right suitcase size is crucial. A suitcase that’s too small won’t fit your suitcase, while one that’s too large might be inconvenient and cause travel problems. This guide will explain how to choose the right suitcase size. Read on!

Suitcase Classifications

Travel is becoming increasingly convenient these days, and people no longer have to travel as frequently. Therefore, a single size suitcase no longer meets everyone’s needs. There are many different sizes and styles of suitcases available for different travel situations. Understanding these different types of suitcases can help you make the right choice. suitcase currently available on the market can be divided into two categories:

Carry-on suitcase

Many airlines have size restrictions for carry-on suitcase. For example, on international economy class flights, carry-on suitcase must be ≤ 115cm in length, width, and height. To accommodate carry-on suitcase, most carry-on suitcase is sized between 16 and 20 inches, eliminating the need for checked baggage. A small suitcase can fit 2-3 sets of clothes, toiletries, and a laptop. Its compact size allows it to fit directly into the overhead bins without needing to be checked in, making it more convenient.

Checked suitcase

Checked luggage usually includes suitcases larger than 20 inches, such as 24-inch, 28-inch, or 32-inch models. Suitcase of these sizes must be checked-in, and fees are calculated by weight.

Manufacturers or travel experts categorize these lager suitcases into several different sizes, including medium, large, and extra-large. Each category has its own typical size and purpose.

 Medium Suitcase

A medium suitcase measures approximately 25 x 14 x 9 inches, with a capacity ranging from 60L to 75L. A medium suitcase can hold about a week’s worth of clothes and other toiletries, making it ideal for business trips or international travel. Besides its moderate capacity, a medium suitcase is easier to carry than a large or extra-large suitcase, and when fully packed, it usually won’t exceed the airline’s weight limit.

Large Suitcase

Large suitcases measure approximately 28 x 18 x 12 inches, with a capacity of 80L to 100L, suitable for family trips or 1-2 week trips. When packing a large suitcase, pay extra attention to the overall weight to avoid incurring extra weight fees exceeding 50 pounds.

 Extra-large Suitcase

Extra-large suitcases measure approximately 32 x 20 x 14 inches, with a capacity of 120L-130L, suitable for relocation or long-distance travel. Compared to large suitcases, extra-large suitcases weigh over 23 kg when fully packed, requiring additional fees.

The Importance of the Right Suitcase Size

Choosing the right suitcase size is crucial for your travels. Kewei, based on their experience in the backpack manufacturing industry, has summarized the following points. Consider checking whether you’ve encountered any of the following situations:

1. If your suitcaseis too small, you may not be able to fit all your desired belongings. Consequently, you’ll have to put any extra items in your handbag or backpack, which adds to your carrying burden. If you try to cram too much into your suitcase, the zipper might break due to the excessive pressure, which is a real headache during your trip. Buying a new suitcase mid-trip is no easy task
2. If your suitcase is too large, your belongings won’t fit evenly, resulting in wasted space. This can lead to clutter and increased organization during hauling, making it difficult to carry. Furthermore, an oversized suitcase is difficult to carry and fit in your car trunk. Furthermore, you might have to pay extra for checked suitcase, which is a significant disadvantage.

How to Measure Suitcase Dimensions

Knowing how to correctly measure suitcase dimensions is crucial to ensure compliance with airline regulations and avoid unnecessary trouble. Here’s the correct measurement method:

• Height. Place the suitcase upright against a wall and fold in the handle. Attach the tip of a measuring tape or soft measuring tape to the bottom of one of the suitcase’s wheels or feet, then pull the tape vertically until it reaches the top of the suitcase on that side.
• Width. With the suitcase still placed upright against the wall, change the measurement direction from vertical to horizontal. Start measuring from one edge of the suitcase and stretch the ruler straight to the other edge; the distance measured is the width. Note that any handles or protrusions on the sides must also be included in the measurement.
• Depth. Measure the depth, which is the thickness of the suitcase. Measure the length from the front to the back of the side of the suitcase (usually the narrower side). If the suitcase has external pockets or extended zippers, fill them completely before measuring; this will give you the correct depth.

How to Estimate Suitcase Size and Capacity 

To obtain the linear dimensions of the suitcase, simply add the measured height, width, and depth. A suitcase with a linear dimension less than 158 cm and a weight less than 23 kg meets international airfare suitcase standards.

Both suitcase manufacturers and retailers typically label suitcase capacity in liters. Therefore, when estimating suitcase capacity, the height, width, and depth dimensions should be in centimeters. Multiply these three dimensions together to get the volume, then divide by 1000.

How to Choose The Right Suitcase Size?

Thus, choosing the right size suitcase ensures you can fit your essential items while avoiding wasted space and costs, making your trip more convenient and comfortable. So how do you choose the right size suitcase? You can consider the following factors:

Choosing Based on The Number of Your Items

Before your trip, do some research, such as researching the weather and temperature at your destination, to determine the amount of suitcase you’ll need.

If you’re traveling alone for 1-3 days, such as on a short trip, business trip, or during the Lunar New Year holiday, a 16- to 20-inch suitcase will not only meet your suitcase needs, but also avoid the need for checked baggage, saving some money and making your trip easier.

If you’re traveling with one or two people for a short period of time, or if you’re traveling alone for 3-6 days, you might need a 22- to 26-inch suitcase. In addition to carrying more clothes, you might also need a change of shoes and larger toiletries.

If you’re traveling for more than 7 days, you’ll need more suitcase and may need a 27- to 32-inch suitcase.

However, Kewei recommends minimizing unnecessary suitcase for greater convenience. Excessive suitcase not only shortens the lifespan of your suitcase but also puts a strain on your body, especially when traveling on public transportation. Consider whether you have the strength to carry it.

Choose According to the Suitcase Dimensions of Different Airlines

In addition to determining the size of your suitcase based on the amount of suitcase you plan to carry, you can also choose according to the requirements of different airlines to avoid paying extra baggage fees for exceeding the standards.

1. For international flights, the general standard for carry-on suitcaseis 21.5 x 15.7 x 7.8 inches. The weight limit for economy class passengers is 10 kg, and for business class passengers it is 12 kg. The total length, width, and height of a checked bag cannot exceed 158 cm, and the weight cannot exceed 23 kg.
2. Asian Airlines. China’s carry-on suitcase dimensions are 20 x 40 x 55 cm, with a weight limit of 5 kg. Up to 23 kg can be checked free of charge. Japan Airlines’ carry-on suitcase dimensions are 55 x 40 x 25 cm, with a weight limit of 10 kg. The weight of a checked bag cannot exceed 23 kg. Singapore Airlines requires a carry-on baggage dimension of 54 x 38 x 23 cm, with a weight limit of 7 kg. Free checked baggage is generally determined by class of service.
   AirAsia requires a carry-on baggage dimension of 54 x 36 x 23 cm, with a weight limit of 7 kg. Checked baggage fees are generally calculated on a per-piece basis.
3. European and American Airlines. Delta Airways and United Airlines both require carry-on baggage dimensions of 22 x 35 x 56 cm, with a total weight limit of 14 kg.

Among European airlines, Lufthansa requires a carry-on baggage dimension of 55 x 40 x 23 cm, with a first checked baggage fee starting at €50 per piece. Air France requires a carry-on baggage dimension of 55 x 35 x 25 cm, with economy class passengers receiving free checked baggage up to 23 kg. Ryanair requires a carry-on baggage dimension of 40 x 20 x 25 cm, and strict carry-on baggage spot checks are implemented.

Choose a Suitcase Based on Its Proportions

To meet different storage needs, suitcases have different proportions, such as the 5:5 split-part, 1:9 front-loading, and 3:7 side-loading. These have different advantages and impact on suitcase storage, access efficiency, and protection.

5:5 Split-part Design

The 5:5 split-part design divides the suitcase’s capacity evenly, meaning both sides have the same storage capacity when opened. This is the most classic and practical suitcase ratio, suitable for compartmentalizing items. When fully loaded, the center of gravity is centrally located, making it less prone to tipping and overturning when towing. However, it’s not particularly convenient for access. 5:5 split-part suitcases are available in sizes ranging from 20-22 inches, 26-28 inches, and 32 inches and larger.

1:9 Front-loading Design

The 1:9 front-loading design has become more popular in recent years. Clothes and other suitcase can be placed on the larger side, while the smaller side can hold frequently used items, making it easier to find and access your suitcase. Suitcases with a 1:9 front-loading design are available in sizes ranging from 20-24 inches and 25-28 inches.

3:7 Side-loading Design

A 3:7 side-loading design is commonly used for 29-inch suitcases. Similar to the 1:9 front-loading design, the smaller side holds frequently accessed items, while the larger side serves as the main storage area for easy access.

Based on Travel Frequency and Durability.

The more frequently you travel, the more you need a durable suitcase. Prioritize high-density nylon ballistic nylon softshell suitcases or polycarbonate hardshell suitcases, equipped with sturdy handles and wheels to ensure they can withstand frequent use and rough handling during transport. However, note that durable designs increase the weight of the suitcase, as high-quality durable materials are heavier than ordinary materials.

Additionally, those who travel frequently for business or leisure tend to choose carry-on or medium-sized suitcases. Carry-on suitcases are convenient to carry, and their weight is less likely to exceed limits when packed. Medium-sized suitcases have a larger capacity and, although they need to be checked in, are easier to move compared to larger suitcases.

Of course, you can also prepare two types of suitcases in advance, allowing for flexible selection based on your travel needs. For example, carry-on suitcases are for short trips or 1-2 day business trips, while large-capacity suitcases are for long or extended business trips.

Choosing the right suitcase size involves several considerations, most importantly planning your travel dates and the number of items you’ll need. Once you’ve determined the right size, it’s best to learn how to pack efficiently and space-savingly to make the most of your limited suitcase.

FAQ

F: How to pack your suitcase better?

A: When packing your suitcase, please pay attention to note these aspects:

• When packing clothes, roll them up instead of folding them. This not only saves space but also reduces wrinkles.
• Use packing bags or compression bags. Packing bags allow for better organization of clothes, while compression bags can compress clothes to the maximum extent, reducing the space they take up in your suitcase.
• Place heavier items such as shoes, toiletries, or compression bags near the bottom of the wheels to maintain stability and facilitate movement.
• If possible, wear larger clothes to reduce the space they take up in your suitcase.

F: What are the airline’s restrictions on checked suitcase?

A: Suitcases must comply with the airline’s regulations to be checked in smoothly and avoid problems such as repacking, unpacking, or paying extra fees at the airport. Many airlines stipulate that the total dimensions of suitcases must not exceed 158 cm and the weight of checked suitcase must not exceed 23 kg.

F: What should I pay attention to when buying a suitcase?

A: Choosing the best suitcase isn’t difficult; just pay attention to the following:

1. Pay attention to the suitcase size. Avoid buying suitcases that are too large or too small. Suitcases that are too large are inconvenient to carry and transport, and may even incur extra costs. Suitcases that are too small won’t fit all your luggage, and you may need to buy a new suitcase.
2. Pay attention to the weight. Consider both the weight of the suitcase itself and its weight when fully packed. Lightweight suitcases are easier to carry, but may be more fragile.
3. Pay attention to the material. The material affects the lifespan of the suitcase. Choose suitcases made of high-quality materials such as polycarbonate and ballistic nylon whenever possible. Also, pay attention to the quality of the wheels, handles, and zippers.
4. Pay attention to the structure. Suitcases with multiple compartments and mesh pockets make organization and storage easier, allowing you to quickly find the items you need. Additionally, internal straps can help secure the luggage and prevent it from becoming tangled during transport.