A guide to choosing the right suitcase size: The first step to making travel easier

  • New Trip

Update date: 2025.12.11
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Good morning, fellow travel lovers! Have you ever made a mistake choosing the right size suitcase ? I had a bitter experience trying to get through a three-night stay with a small-size suitcase, but it didn't fit a bottle of wine I brought home as a souvenir, so I had to carry it all by hand.

To avoid such tragedies, today we'll be explaining the basics of suitcase sizes ! We'll be digging deeper into S, M, and L sizes in this series, so let's get the big picture straight away. Let's get started on the first step to making your trip easier!

table of contents

1. Suitcase sizes, types and features

1. Small suitcase

2. Medium-sized suitcase

3. Large suitcase

2. Tips for choosing a suitcase depending on the number of days you are traveling

3. Common mistakes when choosing suitcase size and how to avoid them

4. Tips for choosing the right suitcase size for each occasion

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FAQ

1. Suitcase sizes, types and features

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Suitcases come in three main sizes : S, M, and L. They're divided like clothing sizes, which is simple, but knowing the characteristics of each will make it easier to choose.

Small suitcase (carry-on size)

Height within 55cm ( including wheels and handles ), capacity approximately 20-40L .

It's perfect for short trips of 1-3 nights , and its biggest appeal is that it can be carried on board .

The best thing about it is being able to move around freely without the hassle of checking it in.

Once, my checked luggage was delayed in Europe, and I had to wait in the lobby on my first day, and ever since then I've been hooked on the convenience of the small size.

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Medium-sized suitcase

Height: 60-70cm , capacity : 50-80L .

Perfect for a trip of 4-7 nights .

There's plenty of room for souvenirs, so you don't have to worry if you find yourself with too much luggage.

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-Airlines measure the size of luggage based on the external dimensions, including protruding parts from the handle to the casters .

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Large suitcase

Height over 70cm , capacity over 90L .

A reliable size for long trips of more than a week or for family trips.

It can easily fit winter coats and other bulky items. When I went to Hawaii with friends, I packed everyone's souvenirs into the large size bag and remember feeling relieved that we could go home with it.

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However, be aware of airline rules !

JAL and ANA have a carry-on standard of " a total of three dimensions of no more than 115cm ," but LCCs can be even stricter, requiring dimensions of 50cm x 40cm x 20cm . It's essential to check the airline's website in advance!

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2. Tips for choosing a suitcase depending on the number of days you are traveling

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Choosing a suitcase based on the number of days you will be traveling will have a big impact on the amount of luggage you will have and how convenient it will be to travel.

This chapter will give you tips on choosing the best size and type for the length of your trip.

- 1-2 nights : Choose a lightweight and compact suitcase (20-30L) that can be carried on board.

It's perfect for short trips with little luggage.

・3 to 5 nights : A medium-sized suitcase (30-50L) is best.

It has ample storage space for clothes and accessories, making it suitable for both business and leisure trips.

・For stays of 6 nights or more : A large-capacity suitcase (60L or more) is required.

Storage capacity is important for long trips or family trips.

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The important thing is to have an idea of ​​" what to bring and how much to bring ." I tend to buy too many souvenirs, but I have a minimalist friend who said, "I went to Europe for a week with only a medium-sized suitcase!" I was impressed by how many possibilities there are depending on your packing skills. What's your travel style?

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3. Common mistakes when choosing suitcase size and how to avoid them

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Here are some common mistakes when choosing a size and how to avoid them.

Choosing the wrong size can often cause inconvenience while traveling, so it's important to know the key points to avoid making mistakes beforehand.

・Your luggage won't fit in : If the capacity is insufficient, you'll have a hard time packing your luggage. Bigger is not always better, but choosing a size with a little more room will give you peace of mind.

・Pay attention to weight : A suitcase that is too large will be heavy and difficult to move around. It is important to choose a size that is appropriate for the amount of luggage you will have and to take weight into consideration.

・Pay attention to carry-on restrictions : Each airline has its own restrictions on carry-on luggage. It is important to choose a carry-on suitcase that meets the airline's regulations (e.g., 55x40x25cm).

To avoid making mistakes, it's important to check the size carefully beforehand and choose the best size for your travel purpose.

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4. Tips for choosing the right suitcase size for each occasion

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Choosing the right size suitcase for your travel needs will greatly improve your comfort.

This chapter introduces the optimal sizes for different purposes.

For business travel , a compact suitcase (30-40L) that can be carried on board is ideal. It allows for smooth travel and is convenient for carrying business documents and a laptop.

・Family travel : You will need a suitcase with a large capacity (60L or more). Focus on storage capacity so that you can store clothes and items for the whole family.

For solo travelers and backpackers : A lightweight suitcase (40-50L) is ideal for those who want to travel light and with minimal luggage. Its flexibility and ability to move around easily are its main advantages.

By choosing the perfect size for your travel needs, you can easily organize your luggage and travel smoothly.

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5. Summary

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This time we've introduced the basics of suitcase sizes . What did you think? S, M, and L each have their own appeal, and it's interesting to see how your choice changes depending on your travel style.

We'll be looking at each size in detail from now on, and next time we'll be giving a thorough explanation of the " S size "! I'll also be sharing tips for carry-on luggage, my favorite recommended models, and "packing techniques for getting through a three-night stay in an S size." Please look forward to it.


What size are you? Let us know in the comments. See you next time!

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FAQ

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1.What is the maximum size that can be carried on board?

Generally, the standard dimensions are 55cm high x 40cm wide x 25cm deep (total of three sides must be within 115cm , including wheels and handles).

This is OK with JAL and ANA, but LCCs (low-cost carriers) are stricter and may require sizes as small as 50cm x 40cm x 20cm . It's best to check the airline's rules beforehand!

2. Are there any disadvantages to having a large suitcase?

Yes! There are extra charges for overweight luggage, the risk of damage or loss when checking it in, and the difficulty of carrying it when traveling. I once struggled to climb the stairs at the station with my large luggage, so be careful if you travel a lot.

3. How many nights can I use the small size bag? What are some tips for packing?

If you do it right, you can stay for three nights, and experts can even stay longer! The trick is to fold your clothes flat (rolling them up makes them surprisingly bulky), stuff socks and small items into the gaps , and buy bulky items locally.

4. How do you choose the size when traveling with your family?

You have two options: share one large bag with everyone , or get one small bag for each person . I've found it easier to share two small bags if you're traveling with a child. It's a good idea to decide based on the amount of luggage you have and how often you'll be traveling .

5. What should I do if I want to buy a lot of souvenirs?

Choose a medium or large size from the start, or bring a foldable sub-bag . I bought too many leather goods in Italy, so I had to add another bag when I got there, but it ended up being easier to have more space in my suitcase .

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