The main thing to keep in mind is the size of the suitcase: 55x40x20, 55x40x25, 55x32x25—a veritable Tower of Babel of numbers you’ll have to deal with. This is an important factor to consider, especially when choosing carry-on luggage, as standards vary by airline. We’ve summarized the carry-on luggage dimensions accepted by major airlines in a document (download here).
As a general guideline, there are two standard sizes for carry-on luggage required by most airlines: 55x40x20 cm, generally used by low-cost carriers, particularly Ryanair (see Ryanair carry-on luggage), which is famous for its strict carry-on baggage policies; 55x40x25 cm, used by traditional airlines for medium- and long-haul flights.
The difference lies in the depth of the suitcase, and it is precisely around these two different measurements that suitcase manufacturers standardize the design of their travel products: Delsey is a prime example; with its cabin trolley suitcases, such as the Delsey Chatelet Air Slim 55cm, it ensures comfortable, stress-free travel during boarding. The same goes for Bric’s luggage, which, with its compact and functional Riccione cabin trolley measuring 40 x 21 x 52 cm, remains well below the maximum recommended dimensions for carry-on luggage.
It’s also worth noting that airlines are lenient regarding minor differences of 3–4 cm from the specified dimensions; therefore, there’s no need to worry about slight oversizes—no one will leave you behind.
Go to Studioarch’s selection of carry-on luggage and low-cost carry-on luggage.
When it comes to medium-sized suitcases, however, the dimensions are typically around 65 cm in height, 45 cm in width, and 25 cm in depth; but these can also vary. Obviously, they must be checked and have no size restrictions. Medium-sized suitcases and trolleys are an essential solution for both couples traveling for short periods and for longer trips, even when traveling alone: they’re easier to carry than large suitcases. Among the most popular in this category are the “Roncato” suitcases and models by Piquadro.
Discover our selection of medium-sized suitcases.
Finally, for those who simply can’t resist exploring the wonders of the world, the ideal choice is undoubtedly a large suitcase. Here, too, there is a wide range of permitted sizes, but it’s important to be careful! While there is a maximum size for carry-on luggage, there is also a maximum size for checked luggage: many airlines set a maximum size beyond which luggage is considered “oversized” and therefore subject to extra fees for transport, payable at check-in. These “maximum dimensions” are usually based on the suitcase’s perimeter and can be easily found on the airlines’ websites.
If you need a large suitcase, the Samsonite and the large expandable trolley bags from Tumi are the ideal choice.
