How to choose a cabin suitcase: the complete guide
The cabin suitcase is the most used luggage and, often, the most underestimated. Choosing it well means avoiding airport surcharges, traveling lighter and having a product that lasts for years. In this guide you will find the concrete criteria for choosing, the measures allowed by the main airlines and the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
In summary: the 5 criteria to choose
- sizes: they must respect the limits of your airline (you can find them in the table below).
- Empty weight: the lighter the suitcase, the more kilos of content you can carry within the limit.
- material: rigid (polycarbonate/ABS) for protection, soft for flexibility and external pockets.
- Internal organization: dividers, clothespins and possible expandability.
- Wheels and handle: 4 wheels (spinner) for maneuverability, sturdy telescopic handle.
The measures allowed by the main airlines
Companies distinguish between free small luggage (under the seat) and large luggage (in a hat box, often for a fee or with priority). Dimensions include handles and wheels.
| companionship | Free luggage (under the seat) | Large luggage (hat box) | Max weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 × 20 × 25 cm | 55 × 40 × 20 cm (with Priority) | 10 kg |
| EasyJet | 45 × 36 × 20 cm | 56 × 45 × 25 cm (with extra) | 15 kg |
| Wizz Air | 40 × 30 × 20 cm | 55 × 40 × 23 cm (with Priority) | 10 kg |
| ITA Airways | 55 × 35 × 25 cm | — | 8 kg |
| Vueling | 40 × 30 × 20 cm | 55 × 40 × 20 cm | 10 kg |
Note: companies update the limits periodically. Always check the official measurements on the company's website before leaving. A suitcase 55 × 40 × 20 cm covers most airlines that accept large luggage in the cabin.
Rigid or soft?
| Rigid suitcase | Soft suitcase |
|---|---|
| It protects better against shocks and water | More flexible, compresses in tight spaces |
| Ideal for fragile items and electronics | Practical external pockets for documents |
| Easy to clean | Often a little lighter |
| No external pocket | The fabric may wear out sooner |
In practice: for the plane, especially with frequent boarding, a rigid polycarbonate offers the best balance between light weight and strength. If you prefer convenience and handy pockets, consider a soft one.
Weight: the most underestimated criterion
With a limit of 10 kg, a suitcase that weighs 2.5 kg empty It leaves you 7.5 kg of content; one that weighs 3.5 leaves you 6.5. On hand luggage it's a huge difference. Always check the Empty weight stated, not only the capacity in liters.
Capacity and expandability
A standard cabin goes on 35 to 45 liters. THEexpandability (a zipper that adds a few centimeters of depth) is useful for the return trip, but be careful: when opened it may exceed the dimensions allowed in the cabin. Use it only when you are in the hold.
Details that make the difference
- TSA padlock: mandatory in fact if you are traveling to the USA, convenient everywhere.
- Wheels: the 4 wheels (spinners) rotate 360° and reduce effort; check that they are silent and, if possible, replaceable.
- Guarantee: a long warranty (5-10 years) is a good indicator of the manufacturer's confidence in the product.
- Repairability: replaceable wheels, handles and hinges extend the life of the suitcase by years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard sizes of a cabin suitcase? The most common and accepted size by most companies for large cabin luggage is 55 × 40 × 20 cm. For free small luggage, the dimensions vary: Ryanair requires 40 × 20 × 25 cm, EasyJet 45 × 36 × 20 cm.
How much can hand luggage weigh? It depends on the company: generally between 8 and 15 kg. Ryanair and Wizz Air impose 10 kg for large luggage; EasyJet reaches 15 kg.
Is a hard or soft suitcase better for the plane? For the plane, with frequent boarding, a rigid polycarbonate: it protects better and is water resistant, remaining light. The soft one is convenient if you are looking for external pockets and greater flexibility.
Is expandability allowed in the cabin? The suitcase must be measured From closed. When expanded, it can exceed cabin limits: use the expansion only for checked baggage.
How many liters are needed for a hand luggage? For a trip of 2-4 days are enough 35-45 liters. In addition, it is advisable to switch to an average hold size.