Got a trip coming up? Choose the type of luggage that best suits you, based on the material and dimensions. 

Choosing the right suitcase goes beyond size. This buying guide looks at materials, durability, fastening systems and the dimensions accepted by airlines to help you make the right choice. 

What to Consider Before Choosing Your Suitcase 

Before choosing a specific model, we recommend considering certain aspects that will directly influence your comfort, durability and overall travel experience. From the material and dimensions to details such as the wheel system or interior organisation, every choice matters when it comes to finding the ideal suitcase. 

• The Material 
  

Material is one of the factors that has the greatest impact on durability, weight and resistance. Aluminium suitcases are ideal for long trips, as they withstand impacts and changes in temperature very well. They also offer extra security thanks to reinforced locks. Polypropylene suitcases are lightweight, flexible and better at absorbing impacts, making them ideal for protecting your belongings on the baggage carousel or in the cabin. 

Polycarbonate suitcases are slightly more flexible than aluminium models, allowing them to withstand impacts without easily becoming deformed. They are a comfortable choice for those looking for protection without compromising on convenience.

DID YOU KNOW? 

Although wheeled suitcases have existed since the 1970s, it was not until two decades later that they became a common sight in Europe and Portugal. 

• The Dimensions 
  

For short trips or city breaks, travelling with just a cabin suitcase reduces waiting times, avoids potential loss or damage, and allows you to move around more easily. 

• In general, many European airlines use 55 × 40 × 20 cm as a reference size for cabin baggage, including wheels and handles. 
• Iberia, for example, allows passengers to bring a cabin suitcase measuring up to 56 × 40 × 25 cm, as well as a small personal item measuring 30 × 40 × 15 cm, which must be placed under the seat in front. 
• Air Europa allows a cabin suitcase measuring up to 55 × 35 × 25 cm, with a maximum weight of 10 kg, as well as an additional personal item. 
• Low-cost airlines such as Vueling and Ryanair may limit free hand luggage to 40 × 30 × 20 cm. If you want to take a larger suitcase (up to 55 × 40 × 20 cm), you will normally need to pay an additional fee. 

It is always advisable to check the specific regulations of each airline before travelling to avoid surprises or additional costs at the airport. 

Types of Luggage 

Every trip and every traveller requires a different type of luggage. A two-day flight between Lisbon and Porto is not the same as a weekend getaway to Paris or an adventure in Indonesia. Your needs change and, with them, so do the ideal sizes and materials. 

1. Cabin Trolleys 

Cabin suitcases are designed for short trips, spontaneous getaways or journeys where you want to travel light and avoid waiting around. They are perfect for anyone who prefers not to check in luggage and wants to start their trip straight away. 

Their main advantage is convenience: less time at the airport, greater control over your belongings and a more agile travel experience. Of course, to make the most of these benefits, it is important to choose a model that complies with the airline's size restrictions and makes the most of its interior space. A good cabin suitcase can hold much more than you might expect. 

2. Medium Trolleys 

Medium-sized suitcases are the best option for trips lasting several days when a cabin suitcase is not quite enough, but you do not need to pack half your wardrobe. They are perfect for week-long getaways, trips for two or for anyone who prefers a little extra room without going overboard with size.

They also generally fit comfortably within the weight limits commonly imposed at check-in, which is another advantage worth considering when choosing one. 

3. Large Trolleys 

Large suitcases are designed for long trips, extended stays or situations where you know you will need more space. They are the usual choice for holidays lasting several weeks, family trips or destinations where the climate and planned activities require you to pack more. 

Their main advantage is capacity, allowing you to travel with greater peace of mind and without having to leave essentials behind. On the other hand, it is important to pay particular attention to the suitcase's empty weight, the durability of the material and the quality of the wheels. A well-designed large suitcase makes all the difference when you need to move it while fully packed or check it in at the airport. 

4. Hard-Shell Trolleys 

Hard-shell suitcases are designed for travellers who prioritise protecting their belongings and greater resistance throughout their journey. Thanks to their solid structure, they help maintain their shape and protect clothes and delicate items from knocks and pressure, especially when luggage is checked in. 

They also tend to feature more secure fastening systems and well-defined interior compartments, making it easier to keep everything in place. They are a popular choice for air travel and for anyone looking for durability and peace of mind, even on long journeys or trips involving multiple transfers. 

5. Soft-Sided Trolleys 

Soft-sided suitcases are a good option for those who value flexibility and lightness. Because they are made from textile materials, they tend to adapt better to their contents and allow you to make more flexible use of the available space — particularly useful when the amount of luggage changes on the return journey.  

They also stand out for their exterior pockets, which are very practical for keeping documents, chargers or small accessories close at hand while travelling. They are particularly common for car or train journeys and trips where comfort and accessibility are a priority. 

6. Underseat Luggage 

As the name suggests, underseat luggage is designed to fit beneath the aircraft seat, allowing you to keep your essentials close at hand and avoid unnecessary waiting. 

Its dimensions are generally compatible with the hand-luggage restrictions of many airlines, making it a very practical option for short getaways, business trips or weekend breaks. 

7. Children's Luggage 

If you travel with children, you certainly know how much they enjoy having a suitcase of their own. As well as making them happy, it is a very practical way to keep their belongings organised and easy to find throughout the journey. 

Designed so that little ones can carry their own things comfortably, these suitcases feature age-appropriate sizes, lightweight materials and designs created with children in mind. Suitcases, backpacks and bags that turn every journey into a little adventure while encouraging independence from an early age. 

8. Travel Bag 

Elegant, practical and timeless, travel bags continue to be one of the favourite options for short trips and weekend getaways. 

They are a great choice for carrying clothes, accessories and other essentials comfortably. Travel bags also stand out for their design, adding a sophisticated touch to both leisure and business trips. 

9. Backpacks 

Travel backpacks are the perfect companions for anyone with an explorer's spirit. Comfortable, versatile and easy to carry, they allow you to move freely while keeping everything perfectly organised thanks to their multiple compartments. 

They are the ideal choice for urban getaways and longer trips where mobility is a priority. 

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Luggage 

If you do not want to end up regretting your choice when you reach the departure gate, take note of these final tips to help you choose the right type of luggage. Bon voyage! 

01. Always check the dimensions and weight allowed by the airlines you usually fly with. 

02. Choose the right size by considering your destination and the number of days you will be travelling, so you can select the most suitable luggage. 

03. Prioritise lightweight luggage, especially if you frequently travel by air and check in your baggage. 

04. Invest in good-quality wheels: your back (and your rush to the gate) will thank you. 

05. Look for practical interior organisation that helps keep everything in its place. 

06. Check the type of fastening system: models with TSA-approved locks are particularly recommended when travelling to the United States.