What is a good size for a suitcase?

A good size suitcase is paramount for traveling with ease without having to compromise what to bring with you. Consequently, the best size suitcase is going to be the best for your individual needs. There is no one size fits all solution.

In this article, we will look at some great size options for traveling and the benefits of each, so you can choose the right suitcase for yourself.

Suitcase Sizes

It’s not always easy choosing a suitcase size. Large cases can seem like an excuse to pack more non-essentials and smaller cases don’t always cater to the over-packer. So, what’s the best size for you?

What is the smallest size suitcase?

The smallest size suitcase you can take in checked luggage averages at around 23”-24” in height, depending on your airline. A small suitcase is deceptive in appearance and can hold more than you’d initially think. If you’re a light packer, a small suitcase could easily contain a couple of weeks' worth of clothes with some potential space for souvenirs. If you find it hard to restrict what you take with you when you travel, a small suitcase can also be a great solution. Forcing you to be more conscious of what you’re packing by using a smaller bag is a great way to save some money on your paid, checked bags. Just be conscious that you will have less space to bring home souvenirs for the family.

Kiplings Small 4 Wheeled Rolling Luggage is a great option, weighing less than 7 lbs. With three internal zip compartments and internal packing straps, your belongings will stay neat, organized, and safe throughout your journey. This suitcase also has a built-in TSA lock to ensure your belongings are safe and secure before, during, and after your flight.

What size is a medium suitcase?

Medium-sized suitcases usually sit around 25”-27” in height and are great for 2-3 week-long trips away, depending on how you pack. If you’re a light packer but want the room to bring things home, a medium-sized suitcase is a great choice.

The Curiosity Medium 4 Wheeled Rolling Luggage is a great hard-shell case option for your travels, with internal zip pockets and four, 360-recessed wheels for easy mobility, this suitcase will help make your journey through the airport as easy as possible.

What is the standard size of a large suitcase?

Large suitcases range between 28” and 32” in height. When packing sensibly, large suitcases are perfect for 2-4 week-long trips, making them ideal for longer vacations or business trips with less stress. However, it’s important to be mindful of weight limits as a larger bag can make it more tempting to overpack.

Kipling's Spontaneous Large Rolling Luggage is a great nylon option if you’re not a fan of the polycarbonate, hard cases. With a front and main zip compartment, external buckle straps, and internal mesh zip pockets, this suitcase is ready for any adventure.

What is the size of a 50 lb suitcase?

The size of a 50 lb suitcase according to Clever Journey is between 25” and 29” in height including the wheels and handles within the measurement. This is due to most airlines having a maximum of 62 linear inches per checked bag.

Linear inches are the total of a bag's height + width + depth. For example, a bag with dimensions of 22” x 17.7” x 9.8” would come to a total of 49.5 linear inches.

According to luggagesavvy.com, a 50 lb suitcase should be enough to hold

  • Ten tops
  • A couple of shirts
  • One sweater
  • Three pairs of shorts
  • Three pairs of trousers
  • Two fancy dresses
  • One Playsuit
  • Travel-sized Toiletries
  • Two pairs of shoes
  • Three travel adapters
  • A couple of underwears
  • Bedding
  • Notebook
  • A backpack
  • Also, some home and personal items.

To make sure you don’t get held up when you arrive at the airport, make sure to weigh your full suitcase to ensure it is not over the weight limit. Try to spread out your contents as much as possible if you’re traveling with multiple suitcases, and use your carry-on to stow heavier items as they aren’t often capped on weight.

Input the measurements of your case into the Traveling Light’s Suitcase Size Calculator to find out if your suitcase meets the requirements of your airline.

In summary

Weekend away: If you’re looking for a suitcase for a short trip, consider a small suitcase to fit your needs.

A week away: For the lighter packer or an over-packer who wants a challenge, a small suitcase can still serve your needs perfectly. However, if you’re looking to pack all the necessities or would like a little extra breathing room, a medium suitcase would do just the trick too.

Two week vacation: A medium-sized suitcase is a good all-rounder, but if you want to pack for all eventualities, a large suitcase can provide you with the comfort of knowing you have a little bit of everything with you. Or, maybe you could stay an extra few weeks!

If you’re still not sure where to start looking, take a look at our Luggage Quiz. Taking into consideration the length of your stay and your preferences in material and color, this quiz will lead you to the right path of narrowing down the best suitcase for you. You can also visit our site to choose the right suitcase for you.