Suitcase sizes explained: 20, 24 and 28 inch
Suitcase sizes are quoted by height, and the numbers matter less than what they hold and where they are allowed.
20 inch / cabin size
Height around 50-56 cm. Fits 1-2 weeks if you pack light and do laundry, and it is the only size you can reliably take into the cabin. Wheel-inclusive dimensions decide whether it passes — check our cabin size rules.
24 inch / medium
Around 65 cm. The default checked bag for a week or two, roughly 60-70 litres. Heavy enough that you will notice a poor wheel design on cobbles.
28 inch / large
Around 75 cm and 90-110 litres. For family trips, winter clothing and moves. Pair it with a 20 inch cabin case and you cover nearly every trip shape.
When a set makes sense
Two- and three-piece sets are usually cheaper than buying the same cases separately, and nesting cases store in the space of the largest one. Two cautions: sets sometimes mix quality tiers, and a 28 inch case is useless if you mostly fly budget carriers where checked allowances are 20 kg.
What to compare before buying
- Empty weight — a large hard shell can start at 5 kg
- Wheel type — spinner wheels cost you a little volume but end the tipping
- Expansion zip — useful on the medium case, rarely on the large
- Warranty terms — "lifetime" often excludes wheels and handles
Browse the shapes in Luggage sets and Check-in & large suitcases, and compare the weight column in our feed data before you decide.
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