How to choose the ideal suitcase size for your next trip?
Choosing the right suitcase size is essential for stress-free travel, avoiding excess weight and stress, and keeping everything necessities well-organized. But with cabin, medium-length, and large hold sizes available, it's not always easy to know where to start. In this article, Michel Maroquinerie guides you step by step to choose the right suitcase size for your trip , based on your destination, the length of your stay, and the airline.
Cabin suitcase: perfect for short trips
A cabin suitcase is ideal for trips of 1 to 3 days or for travelers who wish to avoid checking luggage. It allows you to:
- Save time at the airport,
- Avoid additional costs,
- Keep your essentials within easy reach.
The two large standard formats:
- 55 x 40 x 20 cm : the most widely accepted format, especially on scheduled flights.
- 55 x 35 x 25 cm : commonly called Air France format , also accepted on the majority of European airlines.
👉 Allowed weight : generally 8 to 10 kg , but this limit varies depending on the company (always check before departure).
✋ Important: More and more airlines, especially low-cost carriers, are offering basic tickets that only allow a small carry-on bag (often 40 x 30 x 20 cm ) under the seat. In this case, you should opt for more compact sizes or cabin-sized backpacks.
➡️ Feel free to come and meet us in store : we will help you choose the model perfectly suited to the company you are travelling with, and to your needs.
Medium suitcase size: the right balance for trips of 1 to 2 weeks
The medium-sized suitcase is a good compromise between capacity and maneuverability. Perfect for trips of 5 to 10 days , it is spacious enough to hold:
- Several outfits,
- An extra pair of shoes,
- Toiletry bag, accessories, etc.
Ideal capacity : 60 to 75 liters.
Average size : 65 to 69 cm in height.
→ Examples: Samsonite Proxis Spinner 69 cm, Delsey Châtelet Air 2.0 M, Lipault Plume M.
Large suitcase: for long stays or family trips
If you're going away for more than two weeks , or if you're traveling as a couple with only one suitcase, opt for a large model. This size allows you to carry much more:
- Bulky clothing
- Spare clothes for children
- Specific equipment (sports, hiking, etc.).
Recommended volume : 90 to 120 litres.
Standard size : 75 to 81 cm.
→ Examples: Samsonite C-Lite 75 cm, Delsey Moncey L, American Tourister Soundbox L.
👪 Michel Leather Goods Tip: Some large suitcases are ultra-lightweight despite their size. Ask for advice in store to avoid excess baggage fees.
How to choose the right one based on your profile?
| Trip duration | Recommended size | Average volume |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 days | Cabin suitcase | 35-45 L |
| 4 to 10 days | Medium suitcase | 60-75 L |
| 2 weeks and more | Large suitcase | 90-120 L |
But other criteria can also influence your choice:
- Your storage habits,
- The climate of the destination (light or heavy clothing),
- The constraints faced by low-cost airlines.
Come and try it on in store at Créteil Soleil
At Michel Maroquinerie , we offer the largest selection of suitcases in Val-de-Marne (94), with the best brands on the market: Samsonite , Delsey , American Tourister , Lipault , Eastpak , Herschel , etc.
➤ Come compare sizes, handle models, and get personalized advice based on your next trip.
🎁 Bonus: take advantage of our exclusive in-store offers , often equivalent to outlet prices!
Michel Leather Goods – Créteil Soleil
Cabin, medium and large suitcases – available immediately in store.
Customer service, choice, price and expertise for over 30 years.