When you fly, it's important that your suitcase complies with airline baggage regulations. The correct size prevents extra costs, airport stress, and inconveniences during travel. Although rules can vary per airline, there are clear standard guidelines that most airlines adhere to.
Hand luggage: standard dimensions
Hand luggage is intended to be carried in the cabin. Most airlines apply similar maximum sizes.
The most common standard is:
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Dimensions: approximately 55 × 40 × 20–25 cm
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Weight: usually between 8 and 12 kg
In addition to your cabin suitcase, you can often bring a small personal item, such as a laptop bag or handbag. Budget airlines may have stricter rules, with smaller permitted dimensions for free hand luggage.
Checked luggage: how big can a suitcase be?
For checked baggage, more generous standards usually apply. Instead of a single fixed size, a total dimension is often used.
The standard guideline is:
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Maximum total dimensions: 158 cm (length + width + height combined)
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Weight: usually up to 23 kg per suitcase
For some tickets or for a fee, the permitted weight can go up to 32 kg.
Why the right size is important
A suitcase that is too large or too heavy can lead to extra costs or even refusal at check-in. By choosing a size that falls within international standards beforehand, you travel carefree and without surprises.
Many travelers therefore choose a combination of a cabin suitcase and a larger model, so they are flexible for different types of trips.
A reliable choice for every trip
AMICE travel suitcases are designed with these international dimensions in mind. This means they comply with the most commonly used baggage regulations and are suitable for both cabin use and checked baggage.