The Ultimate Guide to 23kg Suitcases: Sizes, Airline Rules & Packing Tips
Refreshed February 2026 (Originally published 12 December 2025)
TL;DR: A “23kg suitcase” isn’t a special size ,it’s a checked baggage weight limit used by many airlines. Most travellers hit 23kg comfortably with a medium-to-large suitcase (around 65–75cm), as long as the bag stays within common airline size rules like 158cm total dimensions (L+W+H) (where applicable). Pack smarter (cubes + scale) to avoid overweight fees.
What size suitcase do I need for a 23kg allowance?
For most travellers, a 65–75cm suitcase is the sweet spot for a 23kg checked baggage allowance. Go 65–70cm for 7–10 day trips or solo travellers, and 70–75cm for longer trips or sharing. The key is choosing a suitcase that meets your airline’s size rules and is lightweight, so more of the 23kg goes to your packing.
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Why “23kg suitcase size” confuses people
23kg is a weight allowance, not a suitcase dimension. Two suitcases can be the same height but hold very different amounts depending on:
- internal capacity (litres)
- whether it expands
- how heavy the suitcase is empty
- whether it’s hard-shell or soft-shell
So the better question is: What suitcase size makes it easy to pack up to 23kg without breaking airline rules?
What size suitcase do I need for a 23kg allowance?
The simple guide (what most travellers use)
- Medium suitcase (65–70cm): best for 7–10 days or solo travel
- Large suitcase (70–75cm): best for 2+ weeks, or if sharing with a partner/child
That’s why you’ll often see 70–75cm recommended for a “23kg suitcase” it’s usually the most comfortable size to reach that weight without cramming.
What size is a 23kg trolley bag in cm?
There’s no official “23kg” dimension, but a common large, checked bag range looks like:
- Height: ~70–75cm
- Width: ~45–50cm
- Depth: ~28–32cm
This generally provides enough packing volume to approach 23kg without forcing it, especially if you pack shoes, toiletries, and heavier items.
Pro tip: Don’t shop by height only. Compare weight (empty) and capacity (litres) too.
What is the largest size suitcase you can check on a plane?
Many airlines use a maximum checked-bag size of 158cm total dimensions (L+W+H). Qantas states this limit clearly on its checked baggage page. (qantas.com)
Why it matters: Even if your bag is under 23kg, you can still be charged oversize fees if it exceeds the airline’s dimension limit.
Practical takeaway: Always check your specific airline + route. Use 158cm as a good general benchmark for many carriers but verify before you fly.
How big should a 23kg suitcase be for your trip?
- Under 1 week: medium (65–70cm) usually lands around 15–20kg depending on packing
- 2+ weeks: large (70–75cm) is where most people can reach 20–23kg comfortably
- Family travel / sharing: large suitcase (or two mediums) often works better than one oversized case
How to pack a 23kg suitcase without overweight fees
Packing smart matters as much as suitcase size.
The easiest wins
- Use packing cubes (organisation + tighter packing)
- Roll, don’t fold (often saves space)
- Wear bulky items onboard (jacket, sneakers)
- Use a luggage scale at home
- Limit liquids (they’re heavy)
Best 23kg suitcase types to look for
Instead of chasing one “perfect 23kg suitcase”, look for these features:
- Lightweight construction (more usable kilos for your stuff)
- Strong wheels (spinner wheels) for airports and transfers
- Expandable zip (useful on the way home)
- TSA lock if travelling to/through the US.
Key Takeaways
- A “23kg suitcase” refers to a weight limit, not a fixed suitcase size.
- Most travellers suit a 65–75cm suitcase for packing up to 23kg (medium for 7–10 days, large for longer/sharing).
- Many airlines use 158cm total dimensions (L+W+H) as a checked baggage size rule
- Not all airlines use 158cm: Emirates notes 300cm (L+W+H) under the weight concept on its checked baggage page.
- Packing cubes + a luggage scale are the easiest way to avoid overweight fees.
Always check your specific airline + route. Use 158cm as a good general benchmark for many carriers but verify before you fly.
Ready for your next trip?
Shop for the perfect suitcase to fill the 23kg baggage allowance now at Luggage Direct.
Ready to travel smarter?
At Luggage Direct, we stock Australia’s best range of luggage, carry-ons, and travel accessories from trusted brands like Samsonite, Antler, American Tourister and more. Whether you’re after a lightweight suitcase for international flights, a hard-shell case for extra protection, or packing cubes and TSA locks for stress-free travel, we’ve got you covered.
Shop our full range of luggage and travel accessories now. https://www.luggagedirect.com.au/
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