New Trip Editorial Department Last updated: 2026.06.01

How to Choose an L-Size Suitcase | Important Points to Note Regarding the 158cm Rule and 3 Recommended Suitcases

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A large-capacity L-size suitcase is essential for long-term travel.

With a total length of approximately 158cm (3 sides) and a capacity of around 70-100L, it is ideal for trips of 7-10 nights.

In this article, we will introduce some tips on how to choose and recommend New Trip's L-size models.

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table of contents

1. How many nights can an L-size suitcase last?

2. Four points to check to avoid regrets when choosing an L size

3. New Trip's Top 3 Recommended Large Suitcases

4. [Important] Important points to note when bringing oversized luggage onto the Shinkansen

5. Get the L size together! Smart packing and weight management

summary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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一、Lサイズのスーツケースは何泊向け？容量とサイズの目安

When choosing an L-size suitcase, the first two things you should check are the capacity and external dimensions (size regulations).

■ Lサイズの容量目安

Generally, models with a capacity of around 70L to 100L are considered to be L size.

  • 7 to 10 nights: Standard size for overseas travel or long-term business trips.
  • For stays of 10 nights or more or studying abroad: A large capacity of 90L or more is recommended, taking into consideration space for souvenirs and spare clothing.
  • Family Travel: It's also useful for packing luggage for two children and one adult into one bag.

Recently, in addition to the standard of "10 liters per night," the "season of the destination" is also becoming important.

If you need thick clothing in winter in Europe or Hokkaido,

The key to smart travel is to choose an L size even if you're only staying for around 5 nights.

旅行日数別の目安

容量 泊数目安
70〜80L 7〜10泊
80〜90L 10泊前後
90〜100L以上 10泊以上・留学・家族旅行

■ 知らないと損をする「158cmルール」とは？

The most important thing to remember when choosing an L size is that the total of the three dimensions (length, width, and height) must be within 158 cm, which is the international standard.

Many major airlines (ANA, JAL, and overseas full-service carriers)

The size of baggage that can be checked in free of charge is limited to a total of 158cm across the three sides.

Anything over this limit will be treated as "oversized baggage,"

Extra charges of several thousand yen to over 20,000 yen may be incurred for just one way.

New Trip's L size model is designed to meet this "within 158cm" requirement.

"Even though it's a large volume, you can leave it there without worrying about additional charges."

--This is the main reason why smart travelers choose NewTrip.

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📚Reference Articles: ANABaggage Allowance (Weight, Size, and Number of Items) for International Flights

　　　　　　ANABaggage Allowance (Weight, Size, and Number of Items) for Domestic Flights

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二、Lサイズ選びで失敗しないためのチェックポイント

It is not uncommon for the large size to weigh over 20kg when filled with contents.

If you choose something based solely on price, thinking "anything big will do," you may end up regretting it because it breaks during transportation or is difficult to handle.

Be sure to check the following four points.

■ 素材：預け入れの衝撃に耐える「ポリカーボネート」

The flexibility and strength of the material is essential to withstand the rough handling that can occur at airports overseas.

Choose "Polycarbonate (PC)" material instead of the cheaper ABS resin blend.

PC material is lightweight yet flexible enough to absorb shocks.

It is characterized by being difficult to break even in a large case.

■ キャスター：20kg超えを支える「ダブルキャスター」と「静音性」

The total weight of the L size is heavier, so the load is concentrated on the casters.

Double casters that allow for stable running are a must.

Furthermore, it is less likely to echo in residential areas in the early morning or at night.

If you are looking for a model equipped with Japanese-made HINOMOTO silent casters ,

It moves incredibly smoothly and quietly, even with heavy loads.

■ 重量：本体が重いと損をする？「自重の軽さ」が超過料金を防ぐ

Most international flights have a free checked baggage allowance of up to 23kg .

The amount of luggage you can pack into a suitcase that weighs 6kg can differ by as much as 2kg from one that weighs around 4kg.

To avoid paying excess baggage fees, "lightness" is an important specification when choosing the L size.

■ 便利機能：あるとより快適な旅

These functions determine the "feeling of fatigue" when traveling large.

  • Caster stoppers: Heavy L-size chairs can be very dangerous if they roll around on trains or buses. Having a locking function at hand eliminates the need to constantly support the chair, making it much easier to move around.
  • Side Hooks & Drink Holders: When you're waiting at the airport, it can be hard to hold a heavy main case in one hand and a drink in the other. Hooks and holders keep your hands free and make your stay smart.
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💡Important points when choosing a large suitcase

  • Check free baggage allowance size (within 158cm)
  • Pay attention to the weight of the main body
  • Casters and stoppers
  • Shinkansen rules
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三、Lサイズが活躍する人・後悔しやすい人

If you are traveling on the Shinkansen (especially the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen lines) with an L-size suitcase,

You should check the "oversized baggage" rules set by JR.

■ Lサイズがおすすめな人

  • Often take trips of 7 nights or more
  • Travel internationally frequently
  • Often travel in winter
  • Buy a lot of souvenirs
  • Want to pack for the whole family

■ Mサイズの方が向いている人

Even if it is within the size regulations, it is a difficult task to lift a heavy large-size item onto the overhead rack.

Especially women, the elderly, and those with weaker muscles

We recommend reserving a seat with an oversized baggage area.

  • Advantages: You can store your luggage in the space behind the last seat in each car, so you don't have to lift heavy cases up high, and you have more legroom.
  • How to reserve: When purchasing a reserved seat, simply select "seat with oversized baggage area" from the seat type. There is no additional charge.

■ Lサイズ最大のメリットは「帰りの余裕」

Surprisingly, during a trip, the amount of luggage often increases due to:

  • Souvenirs
  • Local purchases
  • Winter clothing

Even if you have plenty of space on the way there, it's not uncommon for your luggage to no longer fit on the way back.

The L size can also help alleviate that "worry about the return journey."

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💡New Trip Editorial Team Note:

While size L offers excellent storage capacity, it may not be ideal for all trips.

Please also refer to our suitcase size guide, which is based on the number of nights you're staying and the amount of luggage you have.

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四、New TripおすすめのLサイズスーツケース

Once you buy the L size, you'll use it for a long time.

At New Trip,

We have carefully selected three of the latest models so you can choose the one that best suits your travel style and priorities.

■ 0201｜お土産が増える海外旅行におすすめ

Among the New Trip models, this is a top-of-the-line model that offers an excellent balance of durability and convenience.

  • Sturdy aluminum frame construction: The aluminum frame provides a tighter seal and greater rigidity than zippered bags, providing excellent protection for your valuables. It also reduces the "flex caused by weight" that is typical of large bags, ensuring a stable ride.
  • All-in-one features for comfortable transport: Operable caster stoppers and a hidden hook for hanging a sub-bag are all included as standard. Dramatically reduces the stress of transporting a heavy L-size suitcase.
  • Ideal for: Long-term overseas trips where the safety of the contents is the top priority, those who want to carry heavy luggage smartly, and those who prefer a luxurious design.
New Trip 0201 スーツケース

拡張機能搭載・超軽量モデル

New Trip 0201

Lサイズ・95L｜ABS+PC

超軽量4.4kg 拡張機能 TSAロック YKKファスナー コーナーパッド

¥17,980

商品を見る

■ 0501｜留学・長期滞在におすすめ

This is an evolved model that combines front opening and expansion functions and is sure to be a hot topic in 2025.

  • Convenient front opening even for the L size: Equipped with a front pocket that allows you to access your belongings while standing upright. Even in tight spaces at airports or hotels, you can access what you need without having to open the case all the way.
  • Amazing capacity increase function: Simply expand the gusset to increase the capacity by approximately 20%. Even if you bring more souvenirs on the way home, you can return home smartly without having to buy an extra bag.
  • Ideal for these types of trips: Studying abroad, long-term business trips where you will need to pack and unpack frequently, and trips where you need to wear thick winter clothes.
New Trip 0501 スーツケース

フロントオープン・多機能モデル

New Trip 0501

Lサイズ・70L(拡張後84L)｜PC

横開きフロントオープン 拡張機能 USB充電ポート ストッパー付き スマホスタンド

¥27,980

商品を見る

■ 0502｜静音性と耐久性を重視する方におすすめ

Because it is an L-size truck designed to carry heavy loads, it is a high-grade model that specializes in "driving performance" and "durability."

  • Hinomoto "Ultra-Quiet" Casters: Made by a long-established Japanese manufacturer, these casters move incredibly smoothly and quietly, even with a weight of over 20 kg, allowing you to move them late at night or early in the morning without disturbing others.
  • Zinc alloy corner pads: The four corners, which are most susceptible to impact, are reinforced with metal pads. This tough design protects your valuable contents from the harsh impacts that large cases can receive when checked in.
  • Perfect for those traveling on European cobblestone streets, those who prioritize the safety of their contents, and those who are particular about quietness.
New Trip 0505 スーツケース

大容量・HIMONOTOキャスターモデル

New Trip 0502

Lサイズ・100L(拡張後120L)｜PC

拡張機能 USB充電ポート HIMONOTO製キャスター スマホスタンド

¥25,980

商品を見る
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五：Lサイズを使う前に知っておきたい注意点

■ 新幹線利用時のルール

On the Shinkansen, when bringing on board luggage whose total dimensions (length, width, and height) exceed 160 cm ,

Advance reservations for "seats with oversized baggage area" are required.

  • Total length, width and height within 160cm: No prior reservation required. Can be placed in the overhead luggage rack.
  • Total of three sides over 160cm to 250cm: Advance reservation required . If you bring your luggage without a reservation, a handling fee of 1,000 yen (tax included) will be charged and you will need to move your luggage to a location designated by the driver.

For more details, please visit: https://railway.jr-central.co.jp/oversized-baggage/

■ よくある失敗例

  1. Choosing based solely on large capacity
    While large models exceeding 100L offer a sense of security, some airlines may charge extra fees for them.
  2. Not checking the unit's weight
    Even with the same capacity, there can be a 1-2kg difference in the unit's weight.
  3. Underestimating caster performance
    L-sized luggage becomes heavy in total weight, so caster performance significantly impacts the comfort of movement.
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📚New Trip Editorial Note:

Even when comparing products in-house, we often find that "caster performance" influences travel satisfaction more than "capacity." For those who travel long distances frequently, we recommend prioritizing quietness and smooth rolling.

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まとめ：Lサイズ選びが、旅の快適さを左右する

L-sized suitcases are large-capacity cases perfect for trips of 7 nights or more, study abroad, or family travel.

However, instead of choosing one simply because "bigger means safer,"

  • Check if it meets the 158cm rule.
  • Is the main body too heavy?
  • Are the casters smooth enough?
  • Does it suit your travel style?

It's important to confirm these points.

Especially with L-sized suitcases, when packed, they can weigh close to 20kg, so caster performance and lightweight design, which affect the comfort of travel, are crucial.

We hope this article helps you find the perfect suitcase for your needs.

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よくある質問（FAQ）

Q1. Lサイズのスーツケースは何泊まで使えますか？

A1：一般的には7〜10泊が目安です。冬物が多い旅行や留学、長期滞在では90L以上のモデルが安心です。

Q2. LサイズとMサイズで迷っています。どちらを選ぶべきですか？

A2：3〜5泊ならMサイズ、7泊以上ならLサイズが目安です。荷物が多い方や冬の旅行が多い方はLサイズがおすすめです。

Q3. 女性一人でもLサイズは使えますか？

A3：はい。最近は4〜5kg台の軽量モデルも多く、一人旅でも十分使えます。キャスター性能の高いモデルを選ぶと移動が楽になります。

Q4. Lサイズのスーツケースは新幹線に持ち込めますか？

A4：持ち込み可能です。ただし、3辺合計160cmを超える場合は「特大荷物スペースつき座席」の予約が必要です。

Q5. 158cm以内なら必ず無料で預けられますか？

A5：サイズだけでなく重量制限もあります。一般的には20〜23kg以内が目安ですが、航空会社によって異なります。

Q6. 荷物が23kgを超えないためのコツはありますか？

A6：軽量なスーツケースを選び、行きの荷物は容量の7〜8割程度に抑えるのがおすすめです。

執筆・監修

New Trip編集部
本記事は、スーツケース・旅行用品ブランド「New Trip」の編集部により制作されました。
製品開発やユーザーの声を活かしながら、ユーザーに合ったスーツケースや、旅行・出張をより快適にするアイテムを発信しています。

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