Choosing The Right Suitcase Size For Overseas Travel

what is a good size suitcase for overseas travel

When it comes to choosing the right suitcase for overseas travel, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the duration of your trip will determine the size of the suitcase you need. For shorter trips or weekend getaways, a carry-on or small suitcase should suffice, while a medium-sized suitcase is ideal for trips up to a week. If you're travelling for several weeks or months, a large or extra-large suitcase will be necessary.

The type of destination you're visiting will also influence your choice. For example, a tropical paradise will require fewer and lighter clothes than a trip to a colder climate. It's important to consider the regulations of the airline you're travelling with, as different airlines have different size and weight restrictions for luggage.

When choosing a suitcase, consider the material and construction. Softshell suitcases are typically lighter and more flexible, making them ideal for squeezing in extra items. They also tend to be more affordable. On the other hand, hardshell suitcases offer better protection for fragile items and are more secure, but they are less expandable and more prone to scratches.

Other features to look out for include the number and type of wheels, the presence of external pockets, and whether the suitcase has a warranty. It's also essential to choose a suitcase that is comfortable to manoeuvre and has a sturdy handle.

Some popular suitcase brands include Samsonite, Travelpro, Amazon Basics, Away, Briggs & Riley, July, and Delsey. When selecting a suitcase, it's a good idea to read reviews and consider your own personal preferences and packing habits to find the perfect travel companion.

Characteristics Values
Type Hard-shell or soft-shell
Size Small, medium, large
Weight Lightweight
Durability Long-lasting
Mobility Spinner wheels, two wheels, four wheels
Security TSA-approved locks
Organisation Packing cubes, pockets, compression boards, compression straps, garment folder, zippered mesh pockets
Style On-trend colours

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Suitcase sizes and their designations

Suitcase sizes can vary enormously, from compact carry-on luggage for weekend getaways to medium-sized suitcases for extended vacations to large suitcases for longer stays or moves. Here is a breakdown of the different suitcase sizes and what they are typically used for:

  • Hand luggage: Hand luggage is designed to be taken into the cabin of an airplane. The exact dimensions vary depending on the airline, but the maximum is usually around 55x40x20 cm. This size is ideal for short trips or business trips where you only need to bring the essentials.
  • Small suitcases: Small suitcases are perfect for short trips or weekend getaways. They typically have dimensions between 40x20x25 cm and 55x35x20 cm, providing enough space for essentials without being bulky or cumbersome.
  • Medium-size suitcases: Medium-size suitcases offer more space for clothes and other items, making them a good choice for trips up to a week long. Their dimensions usually range from 60x40x25 cm to 70x50x30 cm.
  • Large suitcases: Large suitcases are ideal for long trips or when you need to pack a lot of luggage. They typically have dimensions ranging from 75x50x30 cm to 85x60x35 cm, providing ample space for clothes, shoes, and other necessities for extended stays or travel to colder climates.

When choosing a suitcase size, it is important to consider the duration of your trip, your destination, and your packing habits. For short trips or weekend getaways, a carry-on suitcase is often sufficient, while a medium-sized suitcase might be ideal for a one to two-week vacation. If you're travelling for several weeks or months, a large or extra-large suitcase may be necessary. It is also important to inform yourself about the regulations of the airline, as different airlines have different size and weight restrictions for luggage.

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How to choose the right suitcase size for your next trip

Choosing the right suitcase size for your trip is essential to ensure a stress-free travel experience. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect suitcase for your next adventure:

Evaluate the duration of your trip

The length of your trip is a crucial factor in determining the size of the suitcase you need. If you're planning a short trip or weekend getaway, a carry-on suitcase or a small suitcase might be sufficient. For a week-long vacation, consider opting for a medium-sized suitcase. However, if you're travelling for several weeks or months, a large or extra-large suitcase will be more suitable.

Consider your destination

The type of place you're visiting will also impact the amount of luggage you need to bring. If you're travelling to a tropical location, you'll likely need fewer and lighter clothes compared to a trip to a colder climate. Keep this in mind when choosing your suitcase size.

Inform yourself about airline regulations

When travelling by plane, it's important to be aware of the size and weight restrictions for checked luggage. Different airlines have different regulations, so be sure to check the rules of the airlines you plan to fly with most often. Choosing a suitcase that complies with these regulations will help you avoid excess baggage fees.

Know your packing habits

Some people prefer to pack light, while others like to be prepared for all eventualities. If you tend to pack a lot of clothes or bring special items like sports equipment, consider opting for a larger suitcase size. Remember that the right suitcase size depends not only on the length of your trip but also on your personal preferences and packing habits.

Choose between hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases

Hard-shell suitcases offer better protection for your belongings and are more secure, while soft-shell suitcases are typically lighter and can conform to tight spaces. Consider which features are more important to you when making your decision.

Look for lightweight construction

When selecting a suitcase, opt for one that is lightweight yet durable. Soft-shell suitcases made of polyester or nylon tend to be lighter, while hard-shell suitcases made of polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ABS are also good options. A lightweight suitcase will give you more flexibility in terms of weight restrictions.

Consider special features

Modern suitcases come with various special features that can enhance your travel experience. Some suitcases have built-in compression boards, packing cubes, or designated laundry bags to keep your belongings organised. Others may have external pockets for easy access to travel essentials, or even USB ports to keep your devices charged on the go. Choose a suitcase with features that align with your travel needs and preferences.

Don't forget about comfort and manoeuvrability

A comfortable and manoeuvrable suitcase can make a big difference during your travels. Look for a suitcase with a sturdy and adjustable telescopic handle that suits your height. Also, consider the number and type of wheels—spinner suitcases with four wheels offer more ergonomic handling, while two-wheel suitcases are better for clearing curbs and rolling on uneven surfaces.

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The best hard-sided checked suitcase

When it comes to choosing the best hard-sided checked suitcase for overseas travel, there are several factors to consider. Here are some recommendations and key features to look out for:

Away - The Bigger Carry-On Flex

Away's The Bigger Carry-On Flex is an excellent choice for a hard-sided checked suitcase. It offers a spacious interior, with a capacity of 47.9 to 55.7 litres, and a sleek, simple design. The suitcase is made from tough polycarbonate and features interior compression panels and straps to maximise packing efficiency. It has four spinner wheels for smooth manoeuvrability and an adjustable-height telescopic handle. The bag also includes a removable laundry bag and a TSA-approved combination lock. While the zippers can be a bit tricky, this suitcase is a great option for its durability and functionality.

Rimowa - Essential Cabin

If you're looking for a stylish option, the Rimowa Essential Cabin suitcase is a good choice. With a sleek, uniform design and a choice of glossy or matte colours, this suitcase definitely makes a statement. It has a lightweight yet sturdy construction, weighing only 7.1 pounds, and features ball-bearing-mounted wheels for smooth gliding. The telescopic handle is adjustable to three different heights, and the bag comes with a lifetime guarantee. While it has a smaller capacity than some other options and is on the pricier side, the Rimowa Essential Cabin is a great choice if you value style and durability.

Béis - The 29-Inch Large Check-In Roller

The Béis Large Check-In Roller is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a durable and functional hard-sided checked suitcase. It has a spacious interior with a capacity of 112 litres and features zippered compartments, pockets, and removable pouches for easy organisation. The suitcase is made from durable polycarbonate and offers 2 inches of expansion for extra packing space. It includes a unique built-in weight indicator and a limited lifetime warranty. While the handle could be more sturdy and the exterior is prone to scuffing, this suitcase is a great value option for its durability and thoughtful features.

Samsonite - Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 Large Spinner

If you're seeking an incredibly lightweight option, the Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 Large Spinner is a fantastic choice. Weighing just 5.8 pounds, this suitcase helps maximise your packing space without adding extra weight. It has a spacious interior but lacks many pockets or organisational features, so you may want to use packing cubes. The suitcase is highly durable, withstanding scratches and dents in testing, and has smooth-rolling spinner wheels. Overall, it's an excellent choice if weight is a key consideration.

Amazon Basics - Expandable Hardside 21-inch Spinner

For those on a budget, the Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside 21-inch Spinner is a great option. This suitcase offers a spacious interior, with a capacity of 41 litres, and a scratch-resistant exterior. It has a sturdy thermoplastic shell and four dual spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability. The bag also features an expander that increases capacity by 25%. While it lacks smart features and a TSA lock, this suitcase is an excellent affordable choice, offering durability and functionality.

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The best large hard-sided checked suitcase

When it comes to choosing the best large hard-sided checked suitcase, there are several factors to consider, including durability, capacity, weight, and manoeuvrability. Here is a list of some of the best options available:

Away The Large:

Away's The Large suitcase is the largest in their range and is ideal if you need to maximise your allowed space without worrying about weight limits. It is identical to their Medium suitcase, which is also a great option, but offers extra capacity. The Medium weighs 9.9 pounds and measures 26 by 18.5 by 11 inches, while The Large weighs 11.6 pounds and measures 29 by 20.5 by 12.5 inches. Away suitcases are made with high-quality components and have impressively durable wheels. They also come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Maxlite Air Medium Check-in Hardside Spinner:

This suitcase is a great option if you're looking for something lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. It has a built-in compression panel and a 2-inch expander, giving you more room if needed. It weighs only 8.5 pounds and measures 27.5 by 17.5 by 11 inches. The Travelpro Maxlite is durable and glides over any surface with ease.

Briggs & Riley Extra Large Trunk Spinner:

If you need a large checked bag that can keep your things safe, the Briggs & Riley Extra Large Trunk Spinner is an excellent option. It is one of the largest bags on the market, with a capacity of 123.9 litres and a height of 32.5 inches. It has a durable polycarbonate shell, four dual spinner wheels, and an 80/20 lid that reveals two deep compartments with compression panels and zippered pockets. It weighs about 10 pounds when empty, so you'll have plenty of wiggle room regarding weight limits.

Béis The 29-Inch Large Check-In Roller:

This suitcase is a good choice if you're looking for something with a durable exterior and thoughtful interior features. It has a polycarbonate exterior, a 2-inch expansion option, and interior zippered pockets, including one that's waterproof. It also comes with a laundry bag and a retractable strap for carrying additional luggage. It weighs 11.84 pounds and measures 31.3 by 19.6 by 12.6 inches, with a capacity of 112 litres.

Rimowa Original Cabin:

The Rimowa Original Cabin is a stylish and durable option, although it comes with a steep price tag. It has a sleek, futuristic design and a durable aluminium exterior. It offers a spacious interior, smooth-gliding spinner wheels, and a lifetime guarantee. It weighs 9.5 pounds and measures 21.7 by 15.8 by 9.1 inches, with a capacity of 34.8 litres.

Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 Large Spinner:

The Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite 3.0 is an incredibly lightweight option for a large checked bag, weighing only 5.8 pounds. It has a spacious interior but doesn't have many pockets or organisational features, so you may need to invest in packing cubes. It has a T-shaped handle, four spinner wheels, and a curved handle that makes it easy to push or pull. It measures 29.5 by 20.1 by 12.2 inches.

These suitcases offer a range of features, from durability and manoeuvrability to capacity and style. When choosing the best large hard-sided checked suitcase for your needs, consider your priorities regarding weight, organisational features, and price.

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The best soft-sided suitcase

When it comes to soft-sided suitcases, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, soft-sided suitcases are usually lighter than hard-sided options, which is helpful if you need to meet weight restrictions. They are also more resistant to tears, rips and abrasions, and some have water-resistant coatings or fabrics to protect your belongings from rain.

If you're looking for a soft-sided suitcase, here are some of the best options:

Briggs & Riley Essential 22-Inch 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

This suitcase has a trifold garment keeper and an expandable compression system, allowing you to pack more without worrying about space. It also has a nearly flat interior, optimising space and keeping everything organised. The CX one-touch system allows for easy expansion and compression for overhead bins. While it is the heaviest of the bags we tested at 9.7 pounds empty, its durability and lifetime guarantee make it a top choice.

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Carry-On Plus Expandable Spinner

The Delsey Paris Helium DLX is a lightweight, spacious carry-on with smooth dual-density wheels, an expandable capacity and a removable washable lining. It also comes with a bonus toiletry bag. The durable ballistic nylon fabric and DuraTec exterior are resistant to scratches and scuffs. It's a great choice for those looking for a soft-shell carry-on bag at a more affordable price point.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Rollaboard

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Rollaboard has a sleek design, high-density nylon fabric and a generous 53.5-liter capacity with thoughtful organisation. It's a trusted choice for many flight crews and frequent flyers.

Samsonite Armage II Global Carry-On Spinner

The Samsonite Armage II Global Carry-On Spinner is a high-quality, feature-rich bag with smooth Tru-Trac spinner wheels, an organised interior and thoughtful details like an antimicrobial handle and a TSA-approved cable lock. It offers excellent durability and performance.

Swissgear Sion 6283 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Spinner

The Swissgear Sion 6283 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On Spinner is a practical and affordable option with ample packing space, an organised interior and a durable, expandable design. It's a great choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Frequently asked questions

The ideal size of a suitcase depends on the duration of your trip, your destination, airline regulations, and your packing habits. For short trips or weekend getaways, a carry-on suitcase or small suitcase is usually sufficient. For a one to two-week vacation, a medium-sized suitcase might be ideal. If you're traveling for several weeks or months, you'll likely need a large or extra-large suitcase.

Choosing the right suitcase size simplifies organization, saves costs by complying with airline baggage regulations, provides convenience and comfort, and ensures the safety of your belongings.

Some good options for softshell suitcases include the Travelpro Maxlite 3 Expandable Spinner (25")"), the Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable Spinner, and the Delsey Helium Aero Expandable Spinner Trolley.

Some good options for hardshell suitcases include the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner, the Away Medium Suitcase, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Expandable Spinner, and the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage.

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