Most European airlines allow hand luggage of around 55 × 40 × 20 to 25 cm and 7 to 12 kg, plus a small personal item. Checked luggage usually has a maximum total size of about 158 cm (length plus width plus height) and a weight of 20 to 23 kg. An aluminium suitcase is allowed in both the cabin and the hold, as long as it meets these limits. Below you will find the details, and what you can and cannot pack.
Hand luggage: the usual sizes
Hand luggage travels with you in the cabin, so airlines set fixed maximum dimensions to make sure every bag fits in the overhead lockers. The most common norm in Europe is:
- Cabin suitcase: around 55 × 40 × 20 to 25 cm, including wheels and handles.
- Personal item: around 40 × 30 × 15 to 20 cm, small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
The details differ per airline. Some use a narrower width, such as 35 cm, others a shallower depth of 20 cm. On many basic fares only the personal item is included and the cabin suitcase must be added separately. For the exact rules of TUI fly, Transavia, KLM and Corendon, see our overview of airline suitcase sizes.
How to measure
Airlines measure the outside of the suitcase, including wheels, handles and any pockets. A suitcase sold as "55 cm" may measure more once the wheels are counted, so always check the full outer dimensions before you travel.
Checked luggage: the usual sizes
For suitcases in the hold, airlines rarely set one fixed size. Instead they work with a total, usually around 158 cm when you add up length, width and height. A large check-in suitcase of around 65 to 70 cm tall typically falls within that total.
Very large or oddly shaped items, such as sports equipment, often count as special baggage with their own rules and fees. Check these with your airline in advance.
How heavy may a suitcase be?
Hand luggage weight
Most airlines set a limit for hand luggage somewhere between 7 and 12 kg, sometimes for the cabin suitcase alone, sometimes for the suitcase and the personal item combined. Because you lift your bag into the overhead locker yourself, these limits tend to be strict.
The weight of the suitcase itself counts. A lighter shell leaves more room for what you pack, which is why the empty weight of a cabin suitcase matters. The Amice Original Carry-on weighs 4.2 kg, the Florence Carry-on 4.1 kg.
Checked luggage weight
For checked luggage the most common standard is around 20 to 23 kg per suitcase. On some fares, or at an extra cost, the limit can rise, often up to 32 kg per piece. Heavier bags are usually not accepted as regular luggage.
Overweight is generally charged per kilo or per bag, and fees at the airport tend to be higher than when you add weight online. Weighing your suitcase at home avoids repacking at the desk.
Is an aluminium suitcase allowed on a plane?
Yes. No airline restricts suitcases by material. What counts is the size and weight, not whether the shell is aluminium, plastic or fabric. An aluminium cabin suitcase that stays within the hand luggage limits may come on board, and an aluminium check-in suitcase may go in the hold.
In the hold, luggage is handled intensively, and a rigid aluminium shell protects its contents well against pressure and knocks. Over time it will collect dents and scratches, a patina that tells the story of where you have been. Most aluminium suitcases also have TSA-approved locks, which security staff in the United States can open without damaging the suitcase. The Amice Original has a TSA combination lock that you set with your own code.
What can you pack, and where?
The rules below are general and differ per airport and airline, so treat them as a starting point and check before you fly.
Liquids
In hand luggage, liquids, gels and pastes are generally limited to containers of 100 ml each, carried together in one transparent, resealable bag of around 1 litre. Many airports with new CT scanners have relaxed this rule, but not all, and the rule at your return airport may differ. Medication and baby food are usually allowed in larger quantities if you declare them at security. In checked luggage, larger bottles of toiletries are generally fine.
Power banks and batteries
Lithium power banks and spare batteries belong in your hand luggage, not in checked luggage. Most airlines accept smaller power banks without approval, while larger capacities may need permission, and some airlines limit their use during the flight. Laptops, phones and cameras can travel in the cabin; many airports ask you to take larger electronics out of your bag at security.
Sharp objects and other items
Knives, scissors with longer blades, tools and similar items are generally not allowed in the cabin but may go in the hold. Flammable liquids, fireworks and other hazardous goods are not allowed anywhere. Your departure airport usually publishes a full list.
Valuables
Keep valuables, documents, keys, medication and electronics with you in the cabin. That way they stay within reach and are not at risk if checked luggage is delayed. For tips on fitting it all in, read our guide to packing your suitcase efficiently.
A short checklist
- Check which luggage is included in your fare.
- Measure your suitcase on the outside, including wheels and handles.
- Weigh it packed, for both hand luggage and checked luggage.
- Pack liquids, power banks and valuables according to the rules of your airport and airline.
If you are looking for a suitcase that fits the usual cabin limits, our size guide sets each Amice model next to the most common airline sizes.
FAQ
What is the standard size for hand luggage?
Most European airlines use around 55 × 40 × 20 to 25 cm for a cabin suitcase, plus a small personal item of around 40 × 30 × 15 to 20 cm. Some airlines are stricter on width or depth, so check yours before flying.
How much may checked luggage weigh?
Usually around 20 to 23 kg per suitcase, depending on your fare. With a higher fare or an extra purchase, the limit can often rise to 32 kg per piece.
Can I take an aluminium suitcase on a plane?
Yes. Airlines judge luggage by size and weight, not by material. An aluminium suitcase is allowed in the cabin and in the hold, as long as it stays within the limits of your ticket.
Can a power bank go in checked luggage?
Generally not. Lithium power banks and spare batteries belong in your hand luggage. Larger capacities may need airline approval, so check the rules of your airline before you fly.
