Suitcase Size Guide
CONTENTS
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Quick Guide for Suitcase Sizes
Suitcase Size Guide at a Glance
Airline Size Regulations
Last updated
05-01-2025
British Airways
EasyJet
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Vueling
LATAM Airlines
Standard Packing Guide
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Key Dimensions Explained
Height, Width, and Depth
For precise measurements of your luggage, it is crucial to measure the outer dimensions of your bags, taking into account all elements such as wheels and handles. This attention to detail is essential for ensuring compliance with airline requirements, as each airline has specific size restrictions for both carry-on and checked luggage. By including the wheels and handles in your measurements, you can avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport, such as additional fees or the need to check a bag that could have otherwise met the size criteria.
Volume Capacity
Volume, expressed in litres, is a key indicator of how much a suitcase can hold, helping travellers choose the right bag for their specific needs. For short trips, a suitcase with a volume of 40-50 litres is generally sufficient, allowing you to pack just the essentials without overloading yourself. This size is perfect for weekend getaways or brief business trips, where you’ll need enough space for clothing and toiletries while still keeping your luggage manageable.
On the other hand, suitcases with a volume of 70-100 litres are designed to cater to longer journeys, providing ample storage for everything you might need during an extended stay. These larger bags offer the flexibility to pack extra outfits, shoes, and personal items, ensuring you’re well-prepared for various occasions.
Understanding Luggage Types
Carry-On Luggage
Carry-on bags are expertly crafted to offer a compact yet spacious solution for travellers seeking convenience and accessibility. Designed to fit seamlessly into the overhead compartment or snugly beneath the seat in front of you, these cabin bags are perfect for keeping your essentials within easy reach. Typically measuring up to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, carry-on luggage strikes an ideal balance between size and capacity, allowing you to maximise your packing without the hassle of checked baggage.
Check-In Luggage
Checked bags are spacious suitcases designed to travel securely in the cargo hold of an aircraft, allowing you to bring along everything you need for your journey. Typically ranging from 60cm to 80cm in height, these larger bags provide increased capacity, making them the perfect choice for travellers embarking on extended trips or family holidays. With check-in luggage, you can pack everything from clothing and toiletries to sports equipment and souvenirs without worrying about space constraints.
Specialty Luggage
This category encompasses a diverse range of travel solutions, including garment bags specifically designed for formal attire, duffel bags tailored for sports equipment, and much more. The garment bags offer a sophisticated way to transport your suits, dresses, or business attire, keeping them wrinkle-free and ready for important events. Meanwhile, the duffel bags provide ample space and easy access for your athletic gear, making them ideal for trips to the gym or weekend sports retreats.
Packing Recommendations
Cabin Bag
A cabin or carry-on bag is an indispensable travel companion, perfect for short trips or as an addition to checked luggage. Designed to fit in overhead compartments, it allows you to keep essential items close at hand, such as travel documents, electronics, and a change of clothes. When packing your carry-on, prioritise necessities to ensure you're prepared for unexpected delays or changes in travel plans.
To maximise space and convenience, include items that cater to your immediate needs upon arrival, such as a lightweight jacket, headphones for entertainment, and travel-sized toiletries. Packing organisers can help keep everything tidy and accessible. By thoughtfully selecting what goes into your cabin bag, you can enjoy a seamless travel experience with all your essentials right within reach.
Medium Check-In Suitcases
A medium check-in suitcase is the ideal choice for a week-long holiday, providing ample space to comfortably pack everything you need for an enjoyable trip. This size allows you to bring along multiple outfits, toiletries, shoes, and accessories without feeling cramped. When preparing for your getaway, aim to include seven to ten outfits, ensuring you have enough variety to suit different events and activities throughout your stay.
When packing, consider the types of activities you have planned; including a mix of casual wear, formal attire for special occasions, and comfortable options for relaxation will ensure you’re well-prepared. Don't forget to include essential toiletries and a couple of pairs of shoes that complement your outfits. Accessories such as scarves or jewellery can also enhance your looks without taking up much space.
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Large Check-In Suitcases
A large check-in suitcase is the ultimate choice for extended vacations or family trips, offering generous space to accommodate all your essential belongings. This size is particularly advantageous for those travelling with multiple family members or embarking on a lengthy adventure, as it allows you to pack ten to fourteen outfits comfortably, ensuring everyone has enough clothing options for various activities and occasions.
In addition to clothing, a large check-in suitcase provides ample room for bulky items such as jackets, shoes, and even sports gear, making it easier to stay prepared for any situation. When packing, consider organising your outfits by category—casual wear, formal attire, and swimwear—to streamline your selection process during your trip. Furthermore, utilising packing cubes or compression bags can help maximise space and keep your belongings neat and accessible.
Garment Bags
A garment bag is an essential travel accessory for anyone needing to transport formal attire without the worry of wrinkles. Designed specifically for this purpose, it provides a protective and organised way to carry suits, dresses, or other delicate garments, ensuring they arrive at your destination looking pristine. While a garment bag may not accommodate everyday outfits, its specialised design is crucial for maintaining the elegance of your formal wear during travel.
When planning your packing strategy, it’s beneficial to pair a garment bag with a small carry-on suitcase. This combination allows you to transport your formal attire while also having space for additional clothing and personal items. For instance, you can pack your suit or dress in the garment bag, while the carry-on holds your casual outfits, toiletries, and accessories needed for your trip.
Tips for Optimal Packing
Packing Techniques
Utilising rolling techniques for packing your clothes is a highly effective way to save space in your suitcase while also minimising wrinkles. By rolling items such as t-shirts, casual trousers, and lightweight dresses, you can optimise the available space, allowing you to fit more into your luggage without compromising on what you bring. This method not only maximises packing efficiency but also helps to prevent creasing, keeping your garments looking fresh and ready to wear upon arrival.
Use of Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are an invaluable tool for organising your items within your suitcase, offering a systematic approach to packing that can significantly enhance your travel experience. By compartmentalising your belongings, packing cubes not only help you optimise space but also make it much easier to locate essentials quickly. This is especially beneficial when you're on the go and need to access specific items without rummaging through your entire suitcase.
To Sum Up
Travelling can be a seamless and enjoyable experience when you're equipped with the right luggage and packing strategies. By understanding luggage types, airline regulations, and optimal packing techniques, you can ensure that your belongings are organised, secure, and compliant with airline policies. Whether you're embarking on a short business trip or an extended family holiday, selecting the appropriate suitcase size and packing efficiently will help you travel in style and comfort. Remember to stay informed about airline-specific rules to avoid unnecessary fees and delays. Embrace these tips, and you'll be ready for your next adventure with confidence and ease.