Luggage Sizes Explained: 20, 24 and 28 Inch in cm, Litres and Airline Limits (2026)

Quick answer: a 20-inch case (about 54 x 34 x 23 cm) is cabin size and suits 2–4 days. A 24-inch case (about 65 x 40 x 27 cm) is the most popular checked size and suits 5–8 days. A 28-inch case (about 75 x 48 x 31 cm) suits 10 days or more, families and winter trips. A 24-inch case cannot be taken on board on any major airline flying from Singapore.

Luggage size chart

The inch figure describes the case's height. Measurements below are from our own cases and are typical for each size.

Capacity is the approximate outer volume. Expandable cases add about 20–25% when the extra zip is opened.

Airline cabin bag limits from Singapore

Rules checked in October 2026. Always confirm on your airline's site before you fly, because limits change.

Will a 20-inch case fit in the cabin? 

Usually yes, but check two things.

1. Depth on Scoot and AirAsia. Both allow a maximum depth of 23 cm. Some 20-inch cases are 24 cm deep, so choose a slimmer model if you fly budget airlines often. Never open the expansion zip on a cabin case: it adds several centimetres.
2. Weight on AirAsia. The 7 kg limit covers your case and your small bag together. A 20-inch case weighs 2.4–3 kg empty, which leaves about 4 kg for your belongings.

Singapore Airlines measures differently: it adds length, width and height together. A 54 x 34 x 23 cm case totals 111 cm, within its 115 cm limit.

Can a 24-inch case be carry-on? 

No. A 24-inch case is about 65 cm tall, well over the 54–56 cm height limit of budget airlines and the 115 cm total of Singapore Airlines. Plan to check it in. If you want to travel with cabin bags only, choose a 20-inch case and a backpack.

Which size for your trip?

• Weekend in Bangkok, JB or Bali (2–4 days): 20-inch cabin case. You skip the baggage queue and avoid checked-bag fees on budget airlines.
• One week in Japan, Korea or Taiwan: 24-inch case. It holds a week of clothes with room for shopping, especially if it is expandable.
• Two weeks in Europe, or any winter trip: 28-inch case. Winter coats and boots take up roughly twice the space of summer clothes.
• Family holidays and cruises: one 28-inch case for shared items, plus a 20-inch case per child. Cruise lines are generous with luggage, so size matters less than how many bags you can manage at the port.
• Not sure? A matching set of 20, 24 and 28 inch cases nests together, so it stores in the space of one large case.

Weight: the limit people forget

Checked bags in Economy usually have a weight limit of 20–30 kg depending on your airline and fare. A fully packed 28-inch case can easily go over that. Weigh it at home, and choose a lightweight polycarbonate or polypropylene shell if you usually pack heavy.

How to measure your own case

Measure from the floor to the top of the handle (with the handle pushed down), including wheels. Then measure the widest point, including side handles, and the deepest point, including front pockets. Airlines measure the case as it stands, not the shell alone.

Frequently asked questions

How many cm is a 20-inch luggage? About 53–55 cm tall in total, with a typical size of 54 x 34 x 23 cm.

How many cm is a 24-inch luggage? About 64–66 cm tall, with a typical size of 65 x 40 x 27 cm.

How big is a 28-inch luggage? About 74–76 cm tall and 46–49 cm wide, holding roughly 95–115 litres.

Is 24 inch cabin size? No. Cabin size is 20 inches and below on almost every airline.

What size is best for 7 days? A 24-inch case for most trips. A 20-inch case works if you pack light and can do laundry.

Is 20 inch or 24 inch better? A 20-inch case is better for short trips and travelling light. A 24-inch case is better for a week or more, or if you plan to shop.

Shop by size

• Cabin size luggage (20 inch)
• 24-inch luggage
• 28-inch luggage
• Luggage set promotions

Planning a week in Southeast Asia? Read our guide to packing a 24-inch case for Southeast Asia.