If you’ve ever stood at the check-in desk frantically unzipping your bag and throwing shoes into your carry-on, this guide is for you. From budget airline cabin rules to long-haul checked luggage, here’s everything you need to know about suitcase sizes — and which one is perfect for your next trip.
1. The 10kg Suitcase – The Smart Traveller’s Best Friend
The 10kg suitcase is the ultimate weapon for budget airline warriors. It’s the magic number for Ryanair, easyJet, and other low-cost carriers that let you bring a 10kg cabin bag without paying a penny extra.
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Ideal for: Weekend city breaks, business trips, minimalist packers.
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Pro tip: Roll your clothes, wear your heaviest shoes on the plane, and sneak snacks in your coat pockets.
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Insider hack: Go for a 10kg cabin suitcase with four spinner wheels — easy to glide through airports and no sore shoulders from backpacks.
2. The 20kg Suitcase – For the “Just in Case” Traveller
The 20kg suitcase is where you start packing “just in case” outfits (we’ve all been there). Many airlines set 20kg as the standard checked baggage allowance.
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Ideal for: One-week holidays, summer trips with multiple outfit changes, light souvenir shopping.
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Pro tip: Weigh your suitcase at home — nothing kills the holiday buzz like an overweight baggage fee before your first cocktail.
3. The 23kg Suitcase – The Sweet Spot for Long-Haul
The 23kg suitcase is a lifesaver for intercontinental flights. Airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic often set 23kg as their standard for checked luggage.
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Ideal for: Two-week holidays, ski trips, weddings abroad.
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Pro tip: Hard-shell designs protect fragile gifts and electronics. If you’re flying home for Christmas, 23kg lets you smuggle more mince pies.
4. The Extra Large Suitcase – Go Big or Go Home
When you’re moving abroad, packing for an extended trip, or just terrible at packing light, the extra large suitcase is your MVP.
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Ideal for: Long-term travel, family trips, relocating overseas.
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Warning: Just because it fits in the case doesn’t mean it won’t tip over airline weight limits.
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Pro tip: Use packing cubes to keep your chaos under control.
5. Choosing the Right Size – A Quick Cheat Sheet
5. Choosing the Right Size – A Quick Cheat Sheet
| Trip Type | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| 2–4 days | 10kg cabin suitcase |
| 1 week | 20kg suitcase |
| 2+ weeks | 23kg suitcase |
| Long-term travel | Extra large suitcase |
Final Word: Pack Smarter, Travel Happier
Whether you’re chasing budget flights with your 10kg cabin suitcase or taking half your wardrobe in an extra large suitcase, the right luggage can make or break your trip. Choose wisely, check airline rules twice, and remember: the lighter you pack, the easier your holiday will be.