Joybuy Insights

Choosing a suitcase: size, material and features that really matter

Choosing a new suitcase seems straightforward until you have to decide between a hard-shell suitcase, cabin suitcase or large suitcase. Marketing copy often highlights “extra strong”, “lightweight” or “suitable for every airline”. These descriptions only mean something when you check the exact dimensions, weight and construction.

For travellers in the Netherlands, three pitfalls are particularly important:

  1. Confusing the external dimensions with the packing capacity. Wheels, handles and a hard shell all count towards the dimensions. A suitcase measuring 55 cm in height will therefore not automatically meet every airline’s cabin-bag limit.
  2. Looking only at the material. An ABS suitcase can be practical and affordable, but the overall weight, zip, handle and wheels also determine how easy it is to use. A polycarbonate suitcase has different properties, but is not automatically the right choice for every journey.
  3. Overfilling expandable suitcases. An expandable suitcase offers extra space, but overfilling it can put pressure on the zips, seams and wheels. Always check your airline’s maximum dimensions and permitted weight as well.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Size and capacity

Choose the size based on the length of your trip and the type of luggage you need:

  • Cabin suitcase: usually suitable for short trips, but check the airline’s current limits. Dimensions such as 55 × 40 × 20 cm are common, but rules vary.
  • Medium-sized suitcase: suitable for a few days to around a week, depending on your clothes and personal belongings.
  • Large suitcase: practical for longer holidays or shared luggage. Keep the maximum weight for hold luggage in mind.
  • Cabin trolley suitcase: handy for business trips and weekend breaks, provided the dimensions match the conditions of your ticket.

Don’t just look at the number of litres. A 30-litre suitcase with a well-organised interior can be more practical than a larger model without compartments. Also check whether the stated capacity refers to the standard or expanded configuration.

2. ABS, polycarbonate or a combination?

An ABS suitcase generally has a hard plastic shell and is often attractively priced. The weight and flexibility vary from one model to another. For occasional holidays, ABS can be a practical choice, provided the other components are sturdy enough for your needs.

A polycarbonate suitcase uses PC in its hard shell. Product descriptions often highlight this material as lightweight and impact-resistant. According to the product specifications for the NINETYGO models mentioned, the shell is made from polycarbonate with a textured surface. Also assess the empty weight: a sturdy shell offers little benefit if the suitcase itself already takes up a significant portion of your permitted baggage allowance.

With any hard-shell suitcase, these components are at least as important:

  • a telescopic handle with minimal play;
  • smooth-rolling wheels that do not jam;
  • a zip that closes evenly;
  • an interior layout with straps or a zipped compartment;
  • a shell that is not unnecessarily heavy.

3. Wheels and security

A suitcase with spinner wheels can turn through 360 degrees. This is convenient at stations, airports and on hotel floors, as you can roll the suitcase beside you instead of pulling it along behind you at an angle. Two wheels are often simple and lightweight; four wheels offer greater freedom of movement.

A suitcase with a TSA lock is particularly relevant for air travel to destinations where luggage may be opened by authorised security staff. A TSA lock does not prevent someone from physically taking the suitcase, but it provides an integrated combination lock without the need for a separate padlock. Reset the default code as soon as you receive the suitcase and keep the new code in a safe place.

Our recommendations for different types of traveller

The choices below are based on verifiable details such as dimensions, capacity, material, wheel type and lock. Always check the latest product information and your airline’s conditions before buying.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
ProWorld Travel Suitcase Quilt Design

ProWorld Travel Suitcase Quilt Design with 4 wheels

Why it suits this profile: This black suitcase has a capacity of 28 litres, weighs 2.26 kg and is suitable for short trips where a manageable size is important.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list the capacity, weight and dimensions separately. This makes it easier to compare the suitcase than by looking at its appearance alone.

Key benefit & highlights

28-litre capacity, telescopic handle and a compact size of 34 × 17,5 × 52 cm.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
NINETYGO Rhine 2.0 cabin suitcase

NINETYGO Rhine 2.0 cabin suitcase

Why it suits this profile: The 56 × 38,5 × 23 cm PC hard shell and double spinner wheels are well suited to travellers who regularly fly with cabin luggage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The handle and TSA lock are recessed, according to the product description. This reduces protruding parts when the suitcase is stored and transported.

Key benefit & highlights

PC shell, double spinner wheels, TSA lock and internal compression straps with a water-repellent PVC compartment.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent travellers
JOYFURNOS 28-inch black hard-shell suitcase

JOYFURNOS 28-inch hard-shell suitcase

Why it suits this profile: This large black suitcase is designed for checked luggage and offers space for longer trips thanks to its expandable construction.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a maximum static load of 15 kg. This makes it clear that extra contents cannot be added without limit.

Key benefit & highlights

ABS material, TSA lock, 360° spinner wheels, wet-and-dry compartment and a luggage strap included.

Suitable for: Flexible weekend travellers
Beneunder LC363 foldable suitcase

Beneunder LC363 20-inch foldable suitcase

Why it suits this profile: The suitcase folds down, making it an interesting option for anyone with limited storage space at home or who brings back extra luggage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information shows both the folded and unfolded dimensions. This allows you to compare the required storage space with the travel dimensions in advance.

Key benefit & highlights

46-litre capacity, polycarbonate and fabric exterior, 360° spinner wheels and a TSA lock.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Practical tips for buying and using a suitcase

  • Measure your cabin bag including the wheels and handles.
  • Weigh the empty suitcase before packing your clothes.
  • Check whether an expansion zip must remain closed during the flight.
  • Use straps or internal compartments to keep the contents in place.
  • Set a new lock code before you travel.
  • Pack fragile items in the centre of the suitcase, surrounded by soft clothing.
  • Clean ABS, PC and synthetic materials with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive products.

Frequently asked questions about suitcases

What size suitcase do I need for a week-long holiday?

That depends on your clothes, shoes and the baggage rules. A medium-sized suitcase is often a practical middle ground. Light packers may find a cabin suitcase sufficient; if you are taking several pairs of shoes or extra belongings, you will probably need more capacity. Alongside the number of litres, always check the external dimensions and permitted weight.

Is an ABS or polycarbonate suitcase better for air travel?

Both materials can be used in a hard-shell suitcase. ABS is often an accessible choice for occasional trips. Product descriptions often associate polycarbonate with a lightweight, rigid shell. The right choice also depends on the empty weight, wheel construction, zip, interior layout and budget.

How long does a suitcase last?

Its lifespan depends on how often you travel, how heavily you pack and how the suitcase is handled. The wheels, zips and telescopic handles are particularly exposed to mechanical stress. Using a suitcase within its stated load limit, not overfilling it so that pressure is put on the zip, and keeping its components clean can help prevent unnecessary wear.