What is a checked-in suitcase?

A checked-in suitcase is luggage that is handed over at the airport during check-in and transported in the aircraft’s hold. Unlike a cabin suitcase, it is not taken into the cabin but arrives on the baggage carousel at your destination.

This has implications for choosing the right model. Check-in suitcases need to be more durable than cabin luggage, but can be significantly larger and heavier. Typical sizes start at around 63 cm in height and a volume of around 60 litres.

If you’re going away for more than a few days or simply want to take more with you than will fit in your hand luggage, opt for a checked-in suitcase. It’s the classic holiday luggage choice for trips lasting a week or more.

The correct dimensions and weights for checked luggage

Most Airlines base their checked-in luggage limits on a linear measurement of 158 cm – that is, the sum of the height, width and depth. As long as your suitcase stays within this limit, it will fit into the luggage system of most carriers without any problems.

As for weight, the limits vary depending on the airline and fare type. In Economy class, 20 kg is common; many Airlines allow 23 kg for higher-tier fares, whilst in the ‘ Business ’ category the allowance is often 30 kg or more. It is worth checking the exact requirements of the relevant Airline before your flight.

This is precisely where the suitcase’s own weight plays a crucial role. A suitcase that weighs 4.5 kg itself leaves you with only 15.5 kg for your contents when the limit is 20 kg. A lightweight model weighing 3 kg gives you the same 20 kg baggage allowance, but with 17 kg of space for your belongings. travelite has consistently kept this principle in mind for 75 years: a lighter suitcase means more room for the things you really want to take with you.

Which size is best for which trip?

Choosing the right suitcase size depends primarily on the length of your trip and how much you want to take with you. As a general rule, checked-in suitcases start where carry-on suitcases end, and cover everything from a short week away to a months-long break.

• Medium-sized suitcase (M): approx. 63–67 cm / 60–75 L
  The M-sized suitcase is the all-rounder among check-in sizes. It holds enough for a week’s summer holiday or an extended city break, whilst remaining compact enough for smaller boot spaces and cramped hotel rooms. Ideal for anyone who travels light but doesn’t want to compromise when packing.
• Large suitcase (L): approx. 72–77 cm / 75–95 L
  The classic holiday suitcase for a two-week trip. Summer clothes, evening wear, beach gear and still room for souvenirs: the L-size suitcase has space for it all. The L is also a tried-and-tested choice for couples or families sharing a large suitcase.
• Extra-large suitcase (XL): approx. 80–82 cm / from 100 L
  For long journeys, family holidays or anyone who doesn’t want to compromise when packing. With the XL size, it’s particularly worth paying attention to the suitcase’s own weight, so that the Airline’s weight limit isn’t used up by the empty suitcase alone.

If in doubt, it’s better to choose a size smaller and pack more carefully. A well-filled medium-sized suitcase is easier to handle on the baggage carousel than a half-empty extra-large one.

Hard-shell or soft-sided – which is best as a checked-in suitcase?

Both materials have their merits. Which one suits you best depends on your travel style, what you’re packing and your personal preferences. travelite offers both options in its checked-in luggage range.

Hard-shell suitcases

travelite ’s hard-shell suitcases are made from shatterproof polycarbonate or robust ABS. Both materials are designed for durability and can easily withstand rough handling of luggage at the airport. The advantages at a glance:

• High protection for delicate contents
• Dimensionsally stable and water-repellent
• Lightweight despite its hard-shell construction
• Modern design in a range of colours
• 360° wheels for effortless manoeuvring

Many ‘ travelite ’ hard-shell models also feature a well-designed interior with elasticated packing straps and dividers. Some models can be expanded using an extension zip, which is particularly handy on the return journey when packing holiday souvenirs.

Soft-sided luggage

travelite ’s soft-sided suitcases are made from tear-resistant polyester and, despite their light weight, are designed to be hard-wearing. Soft-sided luggage is more flexible than hard-shell luggage and is easier to stow in tight overhead compartments or full boot spaces. The advantages at a glance:

• Particularly low weight
• Flexible, tear-resistant outer material
• Many models are water-repellent
• Expandable design for increased packing capacity
• Easy to clean

Soft-sided luggage is particularly suitable for relaxed holidays where flexibility and weight are key considerations.

Aluminium suitcases

If you don’t want to compromise on sturdiness or style when checking in your suitcase, you’ll find an aluminium option at travelite with the ‘ Next ’ range. This high-quality aluminium suitcase offers maximum durability combined with a timeless design. The benefits:

• Exceptionally sturdy and durable
• Water- and dust-resistant
• A timeless, high-quality appearance
• Easy to clean
• TSA lock included

Aluminium suitcases are the right choice for frequent travellers who view their suitcase as a long-term investment.

What should you look out for when buying a checked-in suitcase?

In addition to size and material, there are a number of features that distinguish a good check-in suitcase from a very good one.

• Wheels: High-quality dual wheels with 360° rotation aren’t a given for checked-in luggage, but they’re a feature that immediately stands out in everyday use. Good wheels run quietly, roll smoothly and cope easily even on uneven surfaces.
• TSA lock: Anyone travelling to the USA or frequently travelling intercontinentally needs a TSA-approved lock. This allows the US security authorities to open and reseal the suitcase without damaging the lock. At travelite, the TSA lock is already built into many models.
• Telescopic handle: A continuously adjustable telescopic handle may sound like a minor detail, but it makes a real difference when walking long distances through the airport. Look for a sturdy mechanism with no play and at least two – preferably three – height settings.
• Internal layout: Packing straps, dividers and internal pockets ensure that the contents stay in place during transit. It’s particularly worth taking a look at a model’s interior layout when travelling for longer periods with more luggage.
• Weight: The lighter the suitcase, the more of your free allowance remains for the actual contents. The weight of the suitcase itself is one of the most important purchasing criteria, yet it is often underestimated when comparing products.

Check-in suitcases from travelite

The right checked-in suitcase makes a difference on every trip, particularly when the baggage carousel starts turning and your suitcase arrives undamaged. What really matters is the combination of the right size, the right material and the lightest possible weight, so that you stay within the Airlines’ weight limit for the contents rather than for the suitcase itself.

travelite offers checked-in suitcases in all standard sizes, available as hard-shell and soft-side options. With 75 years’ experience in the luggage sector, one thing remains central to our focus: travelling lighter without compromising on quality and functionality. Whether you’re planning a two-week summer holiday, travelling with the family or simply want to take more with you than will fit in your hand luggage: you’ll find the right model for your next trip in the travelite range.