How to Choose a Suitcase? What are the Differences in Usage Scenarios for Different Types of Suitcases? What are the Size Regulations for Carry-On and Checked Luggage?

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How to Choose a Suitcase

When selecting a suitcase, there are several key factors to consider, including size, material, functionality, etc.

Considerations	Description
Size Selection	Choose the appropriate suitcase size based on the number of travel days and people. A 20-inch suitcase is suitable for short trips (1-3 days), a 24-inch suitcase is suitable for medium trips (4-6 days), and a 28-inch or larger suitcase is suitable for long trips or family outings (7 days or more).
Material Selection	Suitcases are mainly divided into hard shell and soft shell types, each with its pros and cons. Hard shell suitcases are durable and waterproof but heavier; soft shell suitcases are lightweight and expandable but offer less protection.
Functionality	Pay attention to the wheel design of the suitcase; single-direction wheels are suitable for easy movement, while multi-directional wheels are more flexible. The opening and closing method is also important; zipper types are lighter but aluminum frame types are more durable.
Airline Regulations	Confirm the size restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage set by the airline to avoid issues during boarding.

Size	Total Length, Width, Height Limit	Suitable Number of People	Travel Days	Pros and Cons	Need to Check In
20 inches	Less than 115 cm	1	1-3 days	Lightweight, suitable for short trips, but limited capacity	-
22 inches	Less than 125 cm	1	1-3 days	Larger capacity, suitable for carrying more items, but needs to be checked in	O
24 inches	Less than 135 cm	1-2	4-6 days	Ample space, suitable for medium trips, but heavier	O
26 inches	Less than 140 cm	1-2	6-7 days	Suitable for long trips, large capacity, but inconvenient to carry	O
28 inches	Less than 158 cm	1-3	7 days or more	Extremely large capacity, suitable for family outings, but heavy and not easy to carry	O
32 inches	Less than 195 cm	1-3	7 days or more	Maximum capacity, suitable for long-term travel, but very heavy and difficult to carry	O

Feature	Hard Shell	Soft Shell
Weight	Heavier	Lighter
Flexibility	Fixed space, not flexible	Flexible space, adjustable
Durability	Prone to scratches or cracks	Durable, not easily damaged
Protection	Strong protection, suitable for fragile items	Weaker protection, suitable for general items
Waterproof	Good waterproof performance	Poor waterproof performance
Opening and Closing Design	Rare, usually zipper or lock	Common, zipper design, easy access
Space Utilization	Fixed, not easily adjustable	Flexible, can adjust space as needed
Appearance Design	Stylish appearance, diverse	Simpler appearance, usually practical
Travel Scenario	Suitable for long trips and transfers, effectively protects internal items.	Suitable for short trips or domestic travel, as it is lightweight and has flexible space utilization.
Suitable for Carrying Items	Suitable for carrying fragile items (such as electronics) and for use in areas with poor security.	Suitable for situations where extra space is needed after shopping.

The size regulations for carry-on luggage vary by airline, but there are usually some common standards.

Item	Description
Size Limit	Most airlines have a size limit for carry-on luggage of total length, width, and height not exceeding 115 cm, or specific limits on each dimension.
Weight Limit	Usually between 7 kg and 10 kg, depending on different cabin classes.
Personal Items	Most airlines allow one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag), but it must meet size requirements.

Regulations may change at any time, please refer to the latest regulations from the airline.

Airline	Size (cm)	Total Length, Width, Height	Weight Limit	Number of Pieces Limit
EVA Air	56 x 36 x 23	115	7 kg / piece	1 piece (Economy) 2 pieces (Business)
China Airlines	56 x 36 x 23	115	7 kg / piece	1 piece + 1 personal item
AirAsia	56 x 36 x 23	115	Total weight ≤ 7 kg	1 piece + 1 personal item
Jetstar	56 x 36 x 23	115	7 kg / piece (Economy) 14 kg (Business)	Depending on cabin class
Cathay Pacific	56 x 36 x 23	115	7 kg for Economy 10 kg for Business 15 kg for First Class	Depending on cabin class
Japan Airlines	55 x 40 x 25	115	Total weight ≤ 10 kg	1 piece + 1 personal item
Tigerair Taiwan	54 x 38 x 23	115	Total weight ≤ 10 kg	1 piece + 1 personal item
Singapore Airlines	Total ≤ 115 cm	115	7 kg / piece	Depending on cabin class
Emirates	55 x 38 x 20	113	7 kg / piece	Economy 1 piece Business 2 pieces