Complete Guide to Luggage Sizes
Choosing the right luggage size affects travel convenience, airline fees, and packing stress. Too small means inadequate space and overpacking stress. Too large means unnecessary weight, difficult maneuvering, and potentially exceeding airline limits. This guide helps you select perfect luggage for every trip type.
Understanding Luggage Measurements
Luggage dimensions include height, width, and depth, typically measured including wheels and handles. Airlines measure total linear inches by adding all three dimensions (Height + Width + Depth). Most airlines allow checked bags up to 62 linear inches. A 28×20×12 inch bag totals 60 linear inches, fitting comfortably within limits while maximizing capacity.
Carry-on sizes are stricter, typically 22×14×9 inches for major US carriers. These measurements include everything—wheels, handles, and external pockets. Some bags advertise "carry-on sized" but exceed airline limits when fully packed or with handles extended. Always measure your actual bag when packed, not manufacturer's empty dimensions.
Carry-On Luggage Essentials
Carry-on bags fit in overhead bins and eliminate checked baggage fees, waiting at baggage claim, and lost luggage risk. Standard carry-on size is 22×14×9 inches with capacity around 2800 cubic inches. This accommodates 3-5 days of clothing for most travelers, depending on packing efficiency and clothing type. Business travelers often manage week-long trips with just carry-on by doing laundry or repeating outfits.
Some budget airlines charge for overhead bin space, allowing only personal items free. Spirit and Frontier exemplify this model, making their "free" fares more expensive once bag fees are added. If flying these carriers frequently, invest in a maximum-sized personal item bag (typically 18×14×8 inches) that fits under the seat. These maximize free storage while avoiding overhead bin fees.
Personal Item Strategy
Personal items include purses, laptop bags, and small backpacks that fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions vary by airline but generally approximate 18×14×8 inches. Strategic personal item selection dramatically increases carry-on capacity without additional fees. A well-organized backpack as your personal item can hold laptops, tablets, books, toiletries, and a change of clothes—essential items in case your carry-on must be gate-checked due to limited overhead space.
Checked Baggage Considerations
Checked bags offer maximum packing capacity but come with fees ($30-35 for first bag on most carriers, free on Southwest), waiting time, and loss risk. The 62 linear inch limit accommodates bags up to approximately 28×20×12 inches. Larger bags risk oversize fees ($100-200 depending on airline). The 50-pound weight limit is strictly enforced with overweight fees of $50-100 per bag.
Consider checked bags for trips exceeding 5 days, when traveling with bulky items (winter coats, boots), carrying liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces, or needing to bring gifts or souvenirs home. The first checked bag fee often costs less than shipping items separately. However, for short trips or destinations with shopping opportunities, carry-on-only travel saves time and money.
Medium vs Large Checked Luggage
Medium checked bags (25-26 inches) suit most week-long vacations, providing ample space without excessive weight. They're easier to lift and maneuver than large bags while offering more capacity than carry-ons. Large checked bags (27-28 inches) accommodate 7-10 day trips or travelers who pack heavily. The extra space tempts overpacking, potentially exceeding weight limits even when the bag isn't full.
Extra large bags (29-32 inches) serve extended trips, relocations, or families sharing one bag. These often approach or exceed size limits, risking oversize fees. They're heavy even empty and difficult to handle. Most travelers find medium or large checked bags sufficient for typical vacations, reserving extra large for special circumstances like semester abroad or cross-country moves.
Hard Shell vs Soft-Sided Luggage
Hard shell (polycarbonate or ABS plastic) luggage protects fragile items and resists water, but dents and scratches show readily. They typically weigh more than soft-sided equivalents, reducing available packing weight. Hard shells don't expand, limiting flexibility when you acquire extra items during travel. However, they're easier to clean and stack more stably.
Soft-sided (nylon or polyester) luggage weighs less, often includes external pockets for organization, and typically expands for additional capacity. They resist showing wear better than hard shells and absorb impact without cracking. However, they offer less protection for fragile items and aren't waterproof (though most are water-resistant). For most travelers, soft-sided bags provide better versatility and value.
Spinner Wheels vs Inline Wheels
Spinner wheels (four multi-directional wheels) allow effortless maneuvering in any direction, reducing wrist strain during long airport walks. However, spinners take up internal space, slightly reducing capacity. They're also more prone to damage and don't work well on uneven surfaces like cobblestones or gravel. Spinners excel in airports and hotels with smooth floors.
Inline wheels (two wheels) provide more internal space and better durability, handling rough surfaces more effectively. They require tilting the bag to roll, which can strain wrists over long distances. Inline wheels were standard before spinners became popular and still work well for travelers who prioritize durability and maximum capacity over ease of maneuvering.
Packing Efficiently for Size Limits
Maximize luggage capacity through strategic packing. Roll clothes instead of folding to reduce wrinkles and save space. Use packing cubes to compress clothing and organize by category. Wear bulkiest items (coats, boots) during travel rather than packing them. Fill shoes with socks or small items. Place heavy items near wheels for stability when rolling.
Vacuum bags compress clothing but add weight and make repacking difficult without the vacuum. They work better for one-way trips or extended stays where you'll unpack completely. For typical travel, simple rolling and packing cubes provide adequate compression without the hassle of vacuum storage.
International Travel Considerations
International carriers often have different size and weight restrictions than US domestic flights. Many international airlines allow 50-70 pounds for checked bags but may restrict dimensions more strictly. Budget international carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet) have particularly strict size limits and charge heavily for violations. Always verify specific airline policies before international travel.
Consider duty-free shopping and souvenirs when selecting luggage size for international trips. Arriving with a smaller bag leaves room for purchases. Alternatively, pack a collapsible duffel bag to serve as a second checked bag for the return journey. This flexibility prevents shipping costs or leaving items behind.
Special Luggage Types
Garment bags protect suits and formal wear from wrinkles, typically folding in half for overhead bin storage or carrying. They're essential for business travel or formal events but impractical for casual trips. Duffel bags offer flexibility and lightweight construction but lack organization and structure, making them better for gym or weekend trips than extended travel.
Backpacks serve as excellent carry-on alternatives, distributing weight better than wheeled bags and fitting in more spaces. They're ideal for adventure travel or locations with stairs and uneven surfaces. However, backpacks lack the capacity and organization of wheeled luggage for extended trips. Hybrid bags combining wheels and backpack straps offer versatility for various travel styles.
When to Upgrade Luggage Size
Buy carry-on for frequent short trips and avoiding checked bag fees. Invest in medium checked bag when regularly taking week-long vacations. Add large checked bag for extended trips or family travel. Most travelers need only one carry-on and one medium checked bag to cover all typical travel scenarios. Avoid buying every size—select based on your actual travel patterns.