Luggage Buying Guide Australia | How to Choose the Right Suitcase – TG

Choosing the right luggage is one of the most important travel decisions you'll make. The wrong suitcase can mean excess baggage fees, broken zippers at the worst possible moment, or a bag that simply doesn't fit in the overhead locker. This guide covers everything Australian travellers need to know before buying their next piece of luggage.

Step 1: Choose the Right Size

Luggage size is measured in litres (capacity) or linear centimetres (length + width + depth). Australian airlines use linear centimetres for size restrictions:

Carry-on / Cabin luggage: Most Australian airlines allow up to 115cm linear (typically 56 x 36 x 23cm). Check your specific airline — Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all have slightly different limits.
Medium checked luggage: 60–75cm height, ideal for trips of 1–2 weeks
Large checked luggage: 75–85cm height, suited for long trips or family travel

Browse our full range of carry-on cabin luggage and checked luggage on sale.

Step 2: Hardside vs Softside Luggage

This is the most common question we get at Travel Gear Australia — and the answer depends on how and where you travel. For a full breakdown, see our dedicated guide: Hard Shell vs Soft Shell Luggage: Which is Right for You?

Hardside Luggage

Better protection for fragile items (electronics, souvenirs, bottles)
Easier to wipe clean
More resistant to rain and spills
Generally lighter than equivalent softside bags
Cannot be overpacked — fixed shape

Softside Luggage

Flexible — can squeeze into tight overhead lockers
Usually has external pockets for easy access
Can be overpacked slightly if needed
More susceptible to cuts and abrasion

Our recommendation: Hardside for checked luggage (better protection in the hold), softside for carry-on (more flexible for overhead bins).

Step 3: 2-Wheel vs 4-Wheel (Spinner) Luggage

Four-wheel spinner luggage has become the standard for good reason — it rolls in any direction with minimal effort, making it ideal for airports, train stations, and hotel lobbies. Two-wheel luggage is more stable on uneven terrain (cobblestones, gravel paths) but requires tilting to roll.

For most Australian travellers flying internationally, we recommend 4-wheel spinners. Browse our full luggage range to compare options.

Step 4: Weight Matters

Australian airlines typically allow 23kg for economy checked baggage. The lighter your empty suitcase, the more you can pack. Look for luggage under 3.5kg for medium bags and under 4.5kg for large bags. Polycarbonate and ABS shells are the lightest hardside options.

Step 5: Security Features

Always look for TSA-approved locks on checked luggage — these allow airport security to open and re-lock your bag without cutting the lock. If your luggage doesn't have a built-in TSA lock, add a travel lock to your packing list.

Step 6: Consider a Travel Backpack Instead

For shorter trips, adventure travel, or destinations with rough terrain, a travel backpack can be a better choice than a wheeled suitcase. Backpacks are more versatile, fit in overhead lockers easily, and don't require smooth surfaces to move around.

Luggage Checklist: What to Look For

✅ TSA-approved combination lock
✅ 360° spinner wheels (4-wheel)
✅ Telescoping handle with multiple height settings
✅ Interior compression straps and dividers
✅ Warranty of at least 2 years
✅ Weight under 3.5kg (medium) or 4.5kg (large)

Frequently Asked Questions

What size luggage do I need for a 2-week trip?

A medium checked bag (around 65–70cm, 60–75L) is ideal for a 2-week trip for most travellers. If you're a light packer or travelling to warm climates, a large carry-on may be sufficient.

Can I take a 23kg bag on Qantas?

Qantas economy passengers are typically allowed one checked bag up to 23kg. Business class allows 32kg. Always check your specific fare conditions as allowances vary by ticket type and route.

Is hardside or softside luggage better for Bali?

Hardside is generally better for Bali — it handles the humidity better, protects your purchases, and is easier to clean if it gets dirty in transit.

Luggage Buying Guide for Australian Travellers: How to Choose the Right Suitcase