Your guide to luggage sizes & travel bags
Planning a holiday? Find everything you'll need to know about choosing the right luggage as well as airline luggage restrictions and regulations.
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Luggage types
There are broadly two types of suitcases - soft-sided and hard-sided. But there are other options to consider too. Explore large or expandable suitcases for family travel and extra space, or smaller bags and holdalls for shorter, lighter trips.
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Soft-sided suitcases
Lightweight, strong and versatile, soft shell cases are easy to pack and they can fit into tight spaces.
Hard-sided cases
Durable, sturdy and surprisingly light, hard shell luggage is best for protecting your belongings when you're travelling long distances.
Expandable suitcases
Highly versatile, expandable cases are great for giving you that extra packing space when you need it. They also offer compact storage so your belongings don't move around too much in transit.
Holdalls & backpacks
Smaller bags like holdalls and backpacks are ideal for festivals, short trips or even a weekend getaway. Keep everything you need close and readily accessible.
Kids’ luggage
Travelling with children can be stressful, but you can take away some of the hassle by choosing luggage that they'll love. Designed specifically for younger travellers, kids' luggage comes with built in fun so they can ride, scoot, play, and have fun.
Shop suitcases by size
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Small suitcases
Whether you're after something for short stays, a weekend away, or for buisness trips - small suitcases are the perfect match. They also fit most airline guidelines for size restrictions, but to be safe, make sure to check specific airline regulations.
Medium suitcases
Medium suitcases are ideal for shorter vacations or even for light packers on holiday. These can carry more than small suitcases and are not as bulky as large ones.
Large suitcases
Summer vacay? Large suitcases are great if you're prepping with everything you need for a long holiday. From toiletries and other necessities to daily outfit options - discover luggage that fits it all.
Cabin & hand luggage dimensions
Each airline has its own set of hand luggage size restrictions, so getting familiar with them before you travel will ensure you pack the right sized bags and save time (and stress) at the airport. To get you started, we’ve picked out a few key measurements for certain airlines.
We try to keep these up-to-date but things do change, so please check with your airline before you travel. Any bags that you take into the cabin may incur extra charges so please also check your hand luggage allowance carefully.
Suitcase sizes by airline weight allowance (last updated: November, 2025)
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Flying with another airline not mentioned above?
All you need to find out is the height, width, and depth restrictions of the airline you are flying with. This can usually be found on their website and then all you need to do is find a case that matches the guidelines.
Packing hand luggage
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How to measure a suitcase?
- Pack your bag before measuring, as its contents can affect the depth. If your suitcase has an expandable width, expand it fully before measuring for maximum size.
- For height measurements, stand the bag upright. Measure a duffle bag from one end to the other. For suitcase-style luggage, measure from the wheels to the top of the retracted handle.
- Measure the depth from the back of the suitcase to the opening side, expanding it if possible.
- Measure the width across from one wheel edge to the other, including side handles.
- Remember to check the weight allowance as well.
Which items can't I pack in hand luggage?
- Sharp objects like scissors and knives or flammable substances are generally prohibited by most airlines.
- Other items like liquids, medicines, and baby food are allowed if they follow certain guidelines.
- The full list of hand luggage restrictions and exceptions can be found on the government's website below.
What is hold luggage?
Hold luggage consists of larger bags that you hand over to your airline when you check in. Every airline has its own set of rules on size, weight and the number of hold luggage items that you can bring along. From suitcases of different sizes to luggage sets, our range has all you'll need.
Suitcase features & luggage security
Make your packing and travelling experience even easier and worry-free. From deciding if you want to push or pull your case, to tracking and weighing it. Here are some key features and luggage accessories to help you.
Features to look for in your suitcase
Wheels: The more wheels a suitcase has, the more stable it is and the easier it is to move around. With 2 wheels you have to tilt and pull; with 4 or 8 wheels you can push and pull. 360° wheels give you added spin.
Retractable handles: Most suitcases have a retractable handle, which means you can slot it away once you've finished pushing or pulling.
Suitcase straps: Straps inside keep your belongings secure and in place for the duration of your journey.
Pockets and compartments: Great for keeping different items separated and easy to find, and important documents safe.
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Luggage bluetooth trackers
Lost baggage? Not anymore. Track and find your luggage through your phone with these bluetooth luggage trackers.
Luggage security and accessories
Enjoy a relaxed vacation knowing your luggage is secured. These luggage accessories are must-haves for a safe and seamless journey.
Luggage scales
Weighing your luggage has never been easier. With digital luggage scales, you can stay on top of luggage allowance limits and avoid any extra baggage charges.
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Airline-specific bag size tips (last updated: November, 2025)
What size luggage is best for kids?
If you're unsure about what hand luggage you can take for children on your flight, take a look at the allowances for some of the top UK airlines below.
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British Airways
- Infants under 2 - if they're on a lap, adults can carry 1 extra piece of hand luggage. If in their own seat, they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
Virgin Atlantic
- Infants under 2 - adults are permitted to carry 1 extra piece of hand luggage up to 6kg.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
easyJet
- Infants under 2 - if they're on a lap, infants are permitted a changing bag only. If in their own seat, they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults plus a changing bag.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
TUI
- Infants under 2 - 10kg hold luggage only.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will not fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
Jet2
- Infants under 2 - 10kg hold luggage only.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
Ryanair
- Infants under 2 - adults are permitted to carry 1 extra piece of hand luggage up to 5kg.
- Children aged 2-11 - in their own seat they have the same hand luggage allowance as adults.
- A standard 18 litre Trunki measuring 46 x 21 x 31cm will fit in the airline's hand luggage restrictions.
Top kids' luggage picks
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Top airport tips
- Get to the airport early
- Weigh your suitcase before you get to the airport
- Download your check in passes
- Make sure your luggage is secure with a lock
- Make sure your suitcase is identifiable with straps, a unique tag, or ribbon bows
- Carry a travel pillow so you can stay comfy, whether on the flight or while you wait
- Don’t forget your luggage tag
- And finally, don’t forget about entertaiment for long flights! Have something handy to pass the time, like a kindle or some headphones
FAQs: Choosing the Right Luggage
Is it better to have a hard or soft shell suitcase?
While one is not exclusively better than the other, it largely depends on your needs and preferences. If you fancy something sturdy that won't be easily damaged, go for hard shell suitcase. Alternatively, if you're concerned about flexibility and needing lesser weight, try soft shell suitcases.
What is the difference between hold luggage and hand luggage?
Hold luggage is any bags that you check in at the airline counter. Hand luggage is any bags that you take onto the flight and keep with you (also known as carry-on or cabin luggage). Checking in hold luggage leaves you with less weight to carry around the airport. Once landed, you collect hold luggage from the baggage carousel. There are certain airline guidelines for both hand and hold luggage. Make sure to check what they are with your specific airline before flying.
What is the size of cabin luggage?
Each airline will have its own set of guidelines on the size and number of hand luggage items you can carry on board. (Refer to the section about airline guidelines above for more information).
How do luggage guidelines work?
If your case doesn't meet the size guidelines, you could up end having to put your case in the hold, which could cost a fee and leave you without your belongings close to hand. The wheels and handle are both included in the total size of your suitcase so don't forget to add them when measuring.
What happens if my checked bag gets lost?
Most airlines have set policy in place to deal with lost luggage and any compensations that may be granted. In case you have a missing bag, report it to the airline immediately. Explore more helpful tips to keep your luggage secure and stay safe.
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