What size suitcase do I need? A complete guide to choosing luggage based on trip length
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When choosing a suitcase, the most common question we receive is, "What size should I choose for a trip of how many nights?"
Many people regret their purchase later, thinking, "It's too small, my luggage won't fit" or "It's too big and hard to carry."
This time, we will thoroughly explain the relationship between the number of travel days and suitcase size.
Guide to Travel Days and Suitcase Capacity
First, here is a basic table showing the estimated capacity based on the number of nights.
| Travel Days | Recommended Capacity | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Night | 20-35L | Carry-on Size |
| 2-3 Nights | 30-50L | Small to Medium |
| 4-5 Nights | 50-70L | Medium |
| 6-7 Nights | 70-90L | Large |
| 1 Week or More | 90L+ | Extra Large |
However, this table is just a guideline. In reality, choosing a size based solely on the number of nights can sometimes lead to mistakes.
It's Not Just About the Number of Nights! 4 Key Points to Consider
① Luggage Volume Differences by Season
Even for a 3-night trip, the required capacity varies significantly between summer and winter.
Summer clothing is thin and light, so about 40L is often sufficient for 3 nights.
In contrast, winter clothing like coats, sweaters, and boots are bulky, making 60L or more often necessary for the same 3 nights.
Tip: For summer, choose the lower end of the range in the table; for winter, choose the upper end to avoid issues.
② Shopping Plans at Your Destination
If you plan to buy many souvenirs at your destination, you need to anticipate an increase in luggage on your return trip.
Especially for international travel or if you plan to buy local specialties, it's safer to choose a size that allows for an extra +10 to 20L of space compared to your initial luggage.
Additionally, suitcases with expansion features allow you to travel compactly and then expand the capacity on your way back, offering flexibility.
③ Mode of Transportation
The optimal suitcase size also varies depending on your mode of transportation.
・Airplane: Carry-on size (for planes with 100+ seats, within 115cm total linear dimensions) allows for smooth travel without checking luggage. Larger sizes will need to be checked.
・Shinkansen/Train: Overly large suitcases can obstruct aisles and foot space, inconveniencing other passengers. A size of 60L or less is generally easier to handle.
・Car: As long as it fits in the trunk, there are generally fewer size restrictions, and large capacities are not usually a problem.
④ Laundry Availability
For long trips, if you plan to do laundry at your destination, you can bring fewer clothes and opt for a smaller suitcase.
Especially if your hotel offers laundry service or if you have access to a washing machine during a long stay, a 50-60L suitcase might be sufficient even for a week-long trip.
Recommended Sizes by Use
For Domestic Business Trips and Weekend Getaways (30-40L)
For short trips or business trips of 1 to 3 nights, a carry-on size of 30-40L is ideal.
It eliminates the hassle of checking luggage and allows for smooth travel. This size also fits under seats or in overhead racks on Shinkansen, making it very convenient.
For Family Trips and International Travel (60-80L)
For trips of 4 nights or more, or for family travel, a medium size of 60-80L is optimal.
It provides space not only for clothes but also for children's items and souvenirs. Choosing a durable model ensures long-term use.
For Long Stays and Study Abroad (90L+)
For long trips of one week or more, study abroad, or extended business trips, a large capacity model of 90L or more is necessary.
It can store not only clothes but also daily necessities and books, ensuring peace of mind for long stays.
Common Mistakes and Solutions
Mistake ① "Choosing a size that's just barely enough and regretting it"
Choosing the absolute minimum size often leads to a situation where souvenirs don't fit on the way back, and you end up with extra hand luggage.
Solution: If in doubt, choose one size up or opt for a model with an expansion feature.
Mistake ② "Too big and difficult to carry"
If you prioritize capacity alone and choose a very large suitcase, moving it up stairs or through narrow passages can be challenging.
Solution: Check not only the capacity but also the weight of the suitcase. A lightweight model will be easier to handle even if it's large.
Mistake ③ "Misunderstanding carry-on size regulations"
Sometimes people assume a suitcase is small enough to be carried on, only to find it exceeds regulations and must be checked.
Solution: If you intend to carry it on, check the airline's regulations in advance (generally, total linear dimensions within 115cm).
・Related article:"Carry-on Suitcase Guide | 2026 Latest Regulations and How to Choose Without Failure"
New Trip Editorial Team's Advice
When in Doubt, "Required Capacity + 10L" is the Right Choice
The least mistake-prone approach to choosing a suitcase is to select a size that is "the minimum required capacity plus about 10L."
Having extra space makes packing and unpacking easier and can accommodate increased luggage on the return trip.
For First-Time Buyers, 40-60L is Highly Versatile
For those buying a suitcase for the first time, a medium size of 40-60L is recommended.
It caters to a wide range of trips, from 2 to 5 nights, and is a convenient size for both domestic and international travel.
An Expandable Feature Allows One Suitcase for Multiple Trip Lengths
An expandable zipper model allows you to use it compactly at 40L normally, and expand it to 50L when needed, making one suitcase suitable for short to medium-term trips.
Summary
Choosing the right suitcase size requires considering multiple factors beyond just the number of nights, including the season, shopping plans at your destination, mode of transportation, and laundry availability.
When in doubt, opting for a slightly larger size is a choice that minimizes potential problems.
New Trip offers the perfect suitcase for your travel style. Find your ideal companion for your next journey.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What is the most common suitcase capacity?
The most commonly used suitcase size is 40-60L. This size can accommodate trips of 3-5 nights and is often chosen as a balanced option suitable for both domestic and international travel.
Q2. What size is suitable for a 3-night trip?
For a 3-night trip, 30-40L is a good guideline. However, for winter trips or if you tend to pack a lot, choosing around 40-50L will give you more room. A slightly larger size is especially reassuring if you expect to acquire more luggage during your trip.
Q3. What is the maximum size for a carry-on suitcase?
The general standard is a total linear dimension of 115cm or less and a weight of approximately 7kg. However, regulations vary by airline, so it's essential to check the rules of your specific airline beforehand.
Q4. Is it okay to bring a large suitcase on the Shinkansen?
While bringing a suitcase is permitted, it's important that its size doesn't obstruct aisles or foot space. Suitcases larger than 60L may need to be stored in designated luggage areas or behind seats.
Q5. If I'm buying a suitcase for the first time, what size should I choose?
For a first-time purchase, a standard size of 40-60L is recommended. This size is versatile, suitable for both short and medium-term trips, and is the choice least likely to lead to regret.