The dimensions of a suitcase determine how much you can pack and whether it meets airline size rules. This guide will explain the five most common luggage sizes in Australia and how to select the best one for your needs, from compact carry-ons to oversized suitcases for long trips.
The 5 common luggage sizes and dimensions are:
- Under Seat Personal Item: 40cm Height x 30cm Width x 15cm Depth
- Carry On Cabin Suitcase: up to 56cm Height x 36cm Width x 23cm Depth
- Medium Sized Suitcase: 60-69cm Height x 45cm Width x 26cm Depth
- Large Sized Suitcase: 70-79cm Height x 50cm Width x 30cm
- Extra-Large Suitcase: 80cm+ Height x 51cm Width x 36cm Depth
Luggage Size Comparison Chart
| Type | Dimensions (H×W×D) | Capacity | Best For | Checked/Cabin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underseat | 40 × 30 × 15 cm | 20-30 L | Day trips, laptop bag | Personal Item |
| Carry-On | Up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 30-45 L | 2-3 day trips | Cabin |
| Medium | 68 × 45 × 26 cm | 60-80 L | 5-7 day trips | Checked |
| Large | 76 × 50 × 30 cm | 100-120 L | 10-14 day trips | Checked |
| Extra Large | 81 × 51 × 36 cm+ | 120 L+ | Extended travel / moving | Check airline limits |
Under Seat Personal Item
Best for: Day trips, laptops, handbagsA compact bag designed to slide under the seat in front of you on a plane-no overhead bin required. Most airlines allow this as a free personal item in addition to your carry-on allowance, making it ideal as a second bag for essentials, a laptop, or documents.
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Carry-On Cabin Suitcase
Best for: Weekend trips, 2-3 daysThe standard maximum size allowed in the overhead cabin on most Australian airlines. Most carriers limit cabin bags to 7-8 kg and dimensions up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm (including wheels and handles). A quality carry-on means no checked bag fees and faster airport turnaround.
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Medium Checked Suitcase
Best for: 5-7 day tripsThe most popular size for week-long getaways. Medium suitcases offer balance between capacity and portability-they're easy to lift, comfortable to carry, and generally stay well within the 23 kg checked bag limit most airlines enforce.
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Large Checked Suitcase
Best for: 10-14 day trips or couples sharingLarge suitcases are ideal for longer holidays, family trips, or when two people share one bag. Most airlines measure checked bags by linear dimensions (H + W + D), with a standard limit of 158 cm-a 76 × 50 × 30 cm suitcase comes in right at that limit.
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Extra Large Suitcase
Best for: Extended travel, relocation, bulk gearOversized suitcases offer maximum packing capacity-ideal for long-term travel, relocating, or moving bulky gear. Be aware that extra-large bags often exceed standard airline linear dimension limits, which can result in oversize fees. Always check before you fly.
How to Measure Your Luggage
When airlines state luggage dimensions, they mean the total external measurements including wheels, handles, and any protruding feet or pockets.
- Height: Measure from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the extended handle at its lowest setting.
- Width: Measure across the widest point, including any side pockets.
- Depth: Measure front to back at the deepest point.
- Linear dimension: Add all three measurements together. Most airlines allow up to 158 cm for checked bags.
Australian Airline Carry-On Size Rules (2026)
Before you fly, check whether your carry-on meets your airline's specific size limits. These rules apply to the cabin bag (overhead bin), not the underseat personal item.
| Airline | Max Cabin Dimensions | Weight Limit | Personal Item? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qantas | 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 7 kg | ✓ Yes | 1 carry-on + 1 laptop bag/handbag. See our full Qantas guide → |
| Jetstar | 56 × 36 × 23 cm | 7 kg | Paid add-on | Carry-on costs extra on Starter fares. See our full Jetstar guide → |
| Virgin Australia | 48 × 34 × 23 cm | 7 kg | ✓ Yes | Slightly smaller than Qantas-check your bag fits |
| Rex Airlines | 48 × 34 × 23 cm | 7 kg | ✓ Yes | Same limits as Virgin on most routes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do suitcase dimensions include wheels and handles?
Yes-all stated dimensions and airline limits include wheels, handles, and any other external protrusions. Always measure your bag fully assembled to confirm it meets airline requirements.
What size suitcase fits Qantas carry-on requirements?
Qantas allows carry-on bags up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm and 7 kg. Any suitcase within these measurements will comply. Browse our carry-on range-all meet these requirements. For full details see our Qantas baggage guide.
What size suitcase fits on a Jetstar flight?
Jetstar allows cabin bags up to 56 × 36 × 23 cm and 7 kg, but carry-on must be purchased as an add-on on many fares. See our dedicated Jetstar Baggage Size Guide for full details.
What size suitcase is suitable for a 23 kg allowance?
A medium (68 cm) to large (76 cm) suitcase is typically suitable for a 23 kg limit. The actual volume you can fill also depends on the suitcase's own empty weight-a lightweight suitcase gives you more of that 23 kg for your belongings.
What is the maximum checked bag size on Australian airlines?
Most Australian airlines use a 158 cm linear limit (H + W + D) for standard checked bags. A 76 × 50 × 30 cm large suitcase is right at that limit. Extra-large suitcases (81 cm+) typically exceed this and may incur oversize fees.
Should I choose hard case or soft case?
Hard case suitcases offer better protection for fragile items and are generally easier to clean. Soft case suitcases are more flexible, often lighter, and can compress slightly to fit tight overhead bins. Browse hard case luggage and soft case luggage.
What size suitcase is best for a family holiday?
For families, a combination works well: one large checked bag per adult plus a smaller kids' suitcase they can wheel themselves. Luggage sets are great value for couples and families.
You'll Also Need…
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