When shopping for luggage, suitcase sizes are often described by weight limits rather than physical dimensions. Terms like 10kg suitcase, 20kg suitcase and 23kg suitcase are commonly used, but what do they actually mean — and how do you know which size is right for your trip?
This guide breaks down the most common suitcase weight categories and explains how they’re typically used.
What do suitcase weight limits mean?
Suitcase weight limits usually relate to airline baggage allowances rather than the weight of the suitcase itself. Airlines set maximum weights for cabin luggage and checked luggage, and suitcase manufacturers design cases to suit those limits.
In simple terms:
-
10kg is usually associated with cabin or carry-on luggage
-
20kg is commonly used for medium checked suitcases
-
23kg is the standard checked allowance on many airlines
While dimensions matter too, weight categories are often the quickest way to understand a suitcase’s intended use.
What is a 10kg suitcase?
A 10kg suitcase is typically designed for carry-on or cabin travel. These suitcases are compact, lightweight, and suitable for short trips such as weekend breaks or city stays.
They’re commonly used when:
-
Travelling for 2–4 days
-
Flying with cabin-only baggage
-
Avoiding checked baggage fees
Most 10kg suitcases are sized to fit standard airline cabin limits, although exact dimensions can vary between airlines.
👉 Browse our full range of 10kg suitcase options suitable for cabin travel.
What is a 20kg suitcase?
A 20kg suitcase is usually considered a medium-sized checked suitcase. This is one of the most popular choices for holidays lasting around a week.
A 20kg suitcase is ideal if:
-
You’re travelling for 5–7 days
-
You need space for multiple outfits and shoes
-
You’re checking a bag rather than carrying on
These suitcases balance capacity and practicality, making them a common choice for solo travellers and couples.
👉 Explore our range of 20kg suitcase options for medium-length trips.
What is a 23kg suitcase?
A 23kg suitcase is generally the largest standard suitcase size accepted by airlines before excess baggage charges apply. Many long-haul airlines set 23kg as their maximum checked baggage allowance.
A 23kg suitcase is best suited for:
-
Longer holidays (10+ days)
-
Family travel
-
Packing bulkier items or multiple people’s belongings
Because of their size, these suitcases offer maximum packing capacity while still staying within airline limits.
👉 View our selection of 23kg suitcase options for longer trips.
Which suitcase size should you choose?
Choosing the right suitcase depends on:
-
Trip length
-
Airline baggage rules
-
How lightly you prefer to travel
If you’re unsure, many travellers find it helpful to own more than one suitcase size so they’re prepared for different types of trips.
Understanding what 10kg, 20kg and 23kg suitcases are designed for makes it much easier to choose the right luggage — and avoid unexpected baggage issues at the airport.