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July Light
Editor’s Choice
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Carl Friedrik
Best Aluminium Frame
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July Light
Editor’s Choice
Show Specs
Click image to enlarge
Carl Friedrik
Best Aluminium Frame
Show Specs
When preparing for a cruise vacation, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right suitcase. Your luggage must not only be durable and practical but also compliant with cruise line regulations. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when buying the best suitcase for cruises and determine the ideal sizes for a 7-day and 10-day cruise.
Suitcase Sizes for a 7-day and 10-day Cruise
For a 7-day cruise:
A medium-sized suitcase with dimensions of approximately 24-26 inches in height and 16-18 inches in width should provide enough space for a week’s worth of clothing and essentials.
For a 10-day cruise:
Consider a larger suitcase with dimensions of approximately 28-30 inches in height and 18-20 inches in width to accommodate additional clothing and personal items for the extended trip.
Factors to Consider when Buying a Suitcase for Cruises
- Size and Capacity:
For a 7 or 10 day cruise, I recommend a large check-in or extra large suitcase. In capacity terms, that’s around 100L. - Lightweight:
Much like airlines, some cruise companies have a weight restriction per suitcase. For example, MSC Cruises enforce a 23 kg max weight. I’ve listed a range of polycarbonate and polypropylene hard shell luggage which is both lightweight and strong. See our guide on ultra lightweight carry-ons. - Security Features:
Look for suitcases with TSA-approved locks or integrated combination locks to protect your belongings. These locks allow security personnel to inspect your luggage without causing damage during routine screenings. Royal Caribbean Cruise request this for example. - Wheels and Mobility:
Opt for suitcases with spinner wheels that can rotate 360 degrees. This feature makes navigating crowded cruise terminals and narrow cabin corridors a breeze. Additionally, telescopic handles with adjustable heights are essential for easy handling.
Solgaard Closet
Editor’s choice
Solgaard Closet is one of my favourite suitcases on the market. It features a built in shelving system which can be removed and hung in your wardrobe so you never really have to unpack (my least favourite part of the holiday). It also acts a compression system meaning you can carry even more clothes. The Solgaard is zipperless and the brand claim the waterproof and scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell is unbreakable.
Paravel Grand Aviator
Eco-friendly choice
Paravel Aviator is one of the best looking suitcases on the market in my opinion. It’s also one of the most sustainable too. Paravel claim it’s the world’s first carbon-neutral checked luggage and uses recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminium, and recycled vegan leather. The polycarbonate shell features a scuff-hiding textured finish.
Didn’t find what you were looking for? See the rest of our best luggage buying guides
- Affordable luggage: best suitcase deals | affordable luggage brands
- Carry-on: carry-on luggage with laptop compartments | easyjet cabin bag |
- Checked luggage: checked luggage for international travel | extra large suitcases | expandable suitcases | trunk luggage
- Durable luggage: most durable luggage | zipperless suitcases | aluminium suitcases
- Luggage brands: luxury luggage brands | European luggage brands | eco-friendly suitcases | luggage with lifetime warranty
- Misc luggage: ultra lightweight suitcases | Tripp suitcases | suitcases for cruises | 2 wheel suitcases | rose gold luggage
- Suitcase reviews: Horizn Studios M5 | Level8 Voyageur | Grams(28) 154 City Pack
- Travel accessories: packing cube alternatives | travel accessories for long flights | compression suitcase packing cubes | GPS luggage tracker | passport covers | travel vanity cases | wine suitcases
Last update on 2025-06-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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