Luggage Size Guide: What Size Should You Get?
Choosing the right luggage size depends on a few factors, including the type of trip you’re taking, how long you’ll be away, and what you typically pack. Here’s a breakdown of common luggage sizes and their ideal uses.
Carry-On Luggage (20″-22″)
- Best for: Short trips (1-4 days), business travel, avoiding checked baggage fees.
- Dimensions: Around 20–22 inches tall, 14–16 inches wide.
- Capacity: 30–45 liters.
- Benefits: Fits in overhead bins on most airlines, eliminates waiting for checked luggage.
Medium-Sized Luggage (24″-26″)
- Best for: Week-long trips (5-7 days), more flexibility in packing.
- Dimensions: 24–26 inches tall, 15–17 inches wide.
- Capacity: 45–70 liters.
- Benefits: A good option for 5–7 day trips where you need extra room.
Large Luggage (28″-30″)
- Best for: Longer trips (7–14+ days), family vacations, bulkier items.
- Dimensions: 28–30 inches tall, 18–20 inches wide.
- Capacity: 70–100 liters.
- Benefits: Plenty of room for clothes, accessories, and bulkier items.
Extra-Large Luggage (32″+)
- Best for: Extended travel (1+ month), relocations, multi-destination trips.
- Dimensions: 32 inches and up.
- Capacity: 100+ liters.
- Benefits: Maximum space, ideal for long-term trips.
Quick Reference Table
| Size | Best For | Dimensions | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On (20″-22″) | 1-4 days, business trips | 20-22″ H x 14-16″ W | 30-45L |
| Medium (24″-26″) | 5-7 days, moderate packing | 24-26″ H x 15-17″ W | 45-70L |
| Large (28″-30″) | 7-14+ days, family trips | 28-30″ H x 18-20″ W | 70-100L |
| Extra-Large (32″+) | 1+ month, relocations | 32″+ H | 100L+ |
Things to Consider
- Airline Restrictions: Most airlines have strict size and weight limitations for both carry-on and checked luggage. Be sure to check your airline’s baggage guidelines before buying.
- Trip Length: Shorter trips usually require smaller luggage (carry-on or medium), while longer trips may need a larger bag.
- Packing Style: If you pack light or plan to do laundry on the road, a smaller bag might suffice. If you need to pack heavy or have lots of bulky items, you may need something larger.
- Durability & Weight: Larger bags tend to be heavier, so be mindful of the weight limit on checked luggage (usually around 50 lbs or 23 kg).
- Accessibility: If you’re constantly moving between airports, trains, or buses, smaller, more compact luggage might be easier to handle.
Summary Recommendations
- Weekend getaway (2–3 days): Carry-on (20–22 inches).
- Week-long trip (5–7 days): Medium-sized (24–26 inches).
- Extended trip (1–2 weeks): Large luggage (28–30 inches).
- Long-term travel (1 month or more): Extra-large luggage (32″+) or multiple bags.