Classic Tote Bag

Not sure which suitcase size is right for you? ✈️

Choosing the right luggage size can make your journey easier and more convenient. Whether you're looking for a compact cabin suitcase for a short trip or a larger suitcase for a longer holiday, finding the right size is important.

Baggage Factory – Suitcase Size & Packing Capacity Guide

Understanding Suitcase Dimensions

When you see suitcase measurements on Baggage Factory, these generally represent the overall external size of the case. In most cases, the measurements include the wheels and fixed carry handles.

The extendable trolley handle is not normally included in the stated height when it is pulled out.

Typically, suitcase height is measured from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the main carry handle. The width may also include the side handle, depending on the design of the suitcase.

If a product has been measured without its wheels, this will be clearly mentioned in the individual product specifications.

As a useful reference, the wheels can add around 5–6 cm to the total height of a suitcase.

If you're replacing an older case, remember that suitcase designs have changed over time. Many newer cases use wheels mounted externally, which can take up some space that may otherwise have been available for packing.

Choosing the Right Suitcase for Your Trip

There is no single suitcase size that works for every traveller. Your ideal case will depend on how long you're travelling, the weather at your destination, your travel style and how much luggage you normally take.

The following guide can help you choose:

Approx. Trip Length	Suggested Suitcase Size
1–2 days	Cabin Case
2–7 days	69–71 cm
7–10 days	69 cm for lighter packers / 75 cm for heavier packers
Up to 14 days	75 cm for lighter packers / 81 cm for heavier packers
More than 14 days	81 cm or larger

These are general recommendations, so you may want to size up or down depending on your individual packing habits.

Does the Same Suitcase Size Always Offer the Same Space?

No. External measurements alone don't tell you exactly how much you can pack inside.

Two suitcases that look the same size from the outside may have noticeably different internal capacities. Factors such as the construction of the case, material thickness, wheel housing, internal dividers, lining and expandable sections can all affect usable space.

For a more accurate comparison, always check the suitcase's capacity in litres as well as its external dimensions.

Approximate Packing Capacity by Litres

The amount you can pack will vary from person to person, but the following examples provide a useful indication of what different suitcase capacities may hold.

35–40 Litres

Suitable for shorter trips and lighter packing:

• Around 4 shirts

• 1 toiletry bag

• 2 pairs of shoes

• 2 pairs of trousers

• 1 coat

70–80 Litres

A practical option for medium-length holidays:

• Around 14 shirts

• 2 toiletry bags

• 4 pairs of shoes

• 4 pairs of trousers

• 1 coat

80–100 Litres

Designed for travellers who need additional packing space:

• Around 20 shirts

• 2 toiletry bags

• 6 pairs of shoes

• 6 pairs of trousers

• 2 coats

100–120 Litres

Offers generous space for longer trips or heavier packing:

• Around 20 shirts

• 2 toiletry bags

• 6 pairs of shoes

• 6 pairs of trousers

• 2 coats

110–120 Litres

Suitable for travellers carrying a larger wardrobe:

• Around 24 shirts

• 2 toiletry bags

• 6 pairs of shoes

• 8 pairs of trousers

• 2 coats

130–140 Litres

Ideal when maximum packing room is required:

• Around 30 shirts

• 2 toiletry bags

• 7 pairs of shoes

• 10 pairs of trousers

• 2 coats

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

The examples above are approximate packing estimates rather than fixed limits. The actual amount you can fit will depend on the thickness and size of your clothes, footwear, personal items and how efficiently everything is packed.

Using packing cubes, rolling suitable clothing and making use of internal compartments can also help you organise your luggage more effectively.