Suitcase Size Guide: What’s Best for Short, Medium, and Long Trips

When it comes to travel, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right suitcase size. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway, a week-long vacation, or an extended international journey, your luggage size plays a significant role in shaping your travel experience. The last thing you want is to pack too much and struggle with an oversized bag, or be forced to overpack into a bag that’s too small.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best suitcase sizes for different trip lengths, helping you pick the ideal travel bag size for your needs. With our luggage size chart and packing guide, you'll be well on your way to making smarter luggage choices.

The Short Trip (1–5 Days)

Best Suitcase Size for Short Getaways: Carry-On and Small Luggage

For quick trips like business trips or weekend getaways, carry-on luggage is often the best choice. Not only does it allow you to skip the hassle of checked baggage, but it also keeps your travel simple and efficient.

What to Look For:

• Size: 19–22 inches, with dimensions typically around 22” x 14” x 9”, perfect for most overhead compartments.
  

• Capacity: 30–45 litres, enough space for a few outfits, toiletries, and essential items.

Benefits:

• No need to pay checked baggage fees.
  

• No waiting at baggage claim, giving you more time at your destination.
  

• Quick access to your belongings, keeping them secure and within easy reach.

Best For:

• Minimalist packers
  

• Business travellers
  

• Weekend trips

The Medium Trip (5–14 Days)

Ideal Suitcase Size for Week-Long Vacations: Medium Checked Luggage

For those heading on a holiday or business trip lasting 5 to 14 days, a medium suitcase strikes the perfect balance between ample storage and portability.

What to Look For:

• Size: 23–26 inches, typically requires checked baggage.
  

• Capacity: 60–80 litres, enough space to fit a week’s worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries.

Benefits:

• Offers generous storage without being too bulky.
  

• Still manageable in terms of weight, so it won’t be too difficult to carry.
  

• Ideal for vacations, especially when you need extra space for clothing and accessories.

Best For:

• Leisure travellers
  

• Families
  

• Long weekend trips

The Long Trip (2+ Weeks)

Best Suitcase for Extended Travel: Large and Extra-Large Luggage

When it comes to long-term travel, or when you need to pack for an extended stay, large suitcases are your best bet. These extra-large suitcases provide all the space you’ll need to pack everything from bulky winter clothing to extra shoes or souvenirs.

What to Look For:

• Size: 27–30 inches, or more, typically pushing the 62-inch maximum linear inch limit for most airlines.
  

• Capacity: 90–120+ litres, providing more than enough space for long trips or family vacations.

Benefits:

• Maximum storage capacity for extended stays or family vacations.
  

• Offers more flexibility for packing bulky clothing or larger items like sports equipment.
  

• Ideal for international travel, where you may need extra space for souvenirs.

Best For:

• Extended journeys
  

• Family travel
  

• Travelers with large gear

Beyond Size: Other Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the Right Luggage: More Than Just Dimensions

When it comes to choosing the best suitcase for your trip, size isn’t the only factor. Other important elements like your packing habits, destination, and airline policies should all play a role in your decision.

1. Packing Habits:

• Are you a minimalist packer who only needs the essentials? Or do you tend to overpack? If you’re someone who likes to bring extra shoes or bulky jackets, a medium suitcase or large suitcase may be your best choice. If you prefer to pack light, then carry-on luggage may suffice.
  

• Consider packing cubes to make the most of the space you do have. They help organise your clothing and maximise capacity in any suitcase size.

2. Destination and Climate:

• Packing for a beach holiday requires fewer clothes than packing for a ski trip. If you’re heading to a tropical destination, you’ll likely need less space. However, if you’re travelling to a colder climate or for a long-term stay, a large suitcase can accommodate heavier clothing and gear.

3. Airline Rules and Fees:

• Airlines have specific baggage policies regarding both size and weight limits. Be sure to check your airline’s guidelines before you choose your luggage, as exceeding the limit can result in overweight baggage fees. Always factor in weight, especially for carry-on luggage, where most airlines have strict limits.

4. The Power of Packing Cubes:

• Packing cubes help to compress and organise clothing, allowing you to fit more into smaller luggage. These tools can make even small suitcases work for longer trips, making packing smarter and easier.

Suitcase Size Chart for Quick Comparison

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect suitcase size is essential to making your trip easier and more organised. Whether you’re heading out on a quick getaway or an extended holiday, the right luggage helps you stay stress-free, organised, and ready for anything.

For frequent travellers, matching your suitcase size to the duration of your trip is the key to making your packing experience smoother. Remember to check your airline's policies to ensure your luggage meets size and weight restrictions.

Check out Eume’s wide selection of suitcases for every trip length. Whether you need a carry-on for a weekend getaway or a large suitcase for an international holiday, we’ve got you covered.

FAQs

How Do You Choose the Right Suitcase Size for Any Trip?

Your suitcase size should match the duration and nature of your trip. For short trips, go with a carry-on suitcase. For longer journeys, choose medium or large luggage.

What Size Suitcase Fits Airline Carry-On Rules?

Most airlines allow carry-on luggage between 19–22 inches, which meets the common size requirements for overhead compartments.

Are Medium Suitcases Suitable for Long Weekends?

Yes, medium suitcases are great for weekend getaways and longer vacations, offering more space without being too bulky.

What Is the Best Luggage Size for International Travel?

For international travel, large suitcases (27–30 inches) offer ample space for everything you need for extended stays.

How to Measure Luggage Size Before Packing?

To measure suitcase size, use a tape measure to check the height, width, and depth of your luggage. Add the three measurements together to ensure it meets airline restrictions.