Suitcase guide: The right suitcase for every journey
When you buy a suitcase, you’re making a decision that will last for many years. Size, material and the locking system are the obvious criteria. What makes the difference in everyday use are the details: the wheel system, the interior fittings and the build quality. If you think these issues through carefully, you’ll make a more informed purchase and won’t regret your decision.
Which suitcase is right for my trip?
The first step when choosing a suitcase is not to consider colour or price, but rather the intended use.
- Short breaks and business trips (1–3 days): An S20 or S23 carry-on suitcase is perfectly adequate. It can be stowed in the aircraft, saves time waiting at the baggage reclaim and keeps your luggage within easy reach.
- Holiday week and city break (5–7 days): A size M or M+ suitcase offers enough space for clothes and shoes without becoming unwieldy. M+ is recommended if you need a little more space without having to switch to a large checked-in suitcase.
- Long-haul travel and family holidays (10 days or more): Size L offers maximum capacity and is designed for checked-in luggage. Its sturdy construction and well-thought-out interior organisation are particularly evident here.
Suitcase sizes at a glance
Suitcase sizes are specified including wheels, handles and side pockets. Airlines are measured in the same way, so you should use the external dimensions as a guide.
For carry-on luggage, most Airlines have a maximum size of 55 × 40 × 20 cm. For checked luggage, the so-called 158-cm rule often applies: the sum of the suitcase’s length, width and height must not exceed this value. However, the exact specifications vary depending on the airline and should be checked directly with the relevant airline before each journey.
An overview of all suitcase sizes
Hand luggage regulations of the Airlines
Hard-shell or soft-shell?
Hard-shell suitcases reliably protect their contents from pressure, impacts and moisture. The dimensionally stable shell does not yield under stress, distributes forces evenly and offers structural security even when the suitcase is fully packed.
For air travel, frequent check-in or the transport of fragile items, a hard-shell case is the superior choice. TITAN manufactures exclusively hard-shell cases because this standard allows for no compromises.
Zip or frame?
Both closure systems have clear strengths. Which one is more suitable depends on your travel style.
Zip-fastening case
A zip-lock case is lighter than a hard-shell case. The TITAN UPGRADE features a water-repellent zip with double-reinforced protective corners. It is particularly suitable for travellers who want to save weight and pack flexibly.
Hard-shell case
A frame suitcase seals hermetically. The frame distributes external forces across the entire structure, rather than concentrating them on the lock. This makes it more resilient to rough handling, as is common on long journeys or during frequent transfers. The TITAN series OVERSEAS and the ETERNITY feature a frame construction that is unique worldwide. The extra-large TSA locks also ensure hassle-free opening and closing, even at airport security checks. It is the ideal choice for frequent travellers and long-haul flights.
Suitcase material: polycarbonate and aluminium
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate combines low weight with high impact resistance. The material yields slightly on impact, absorbs the force and returns to its original shape. UPGRADE and OVERSEAS are made from 100% polycarbonate.
- Lightweight
- High impact resistance thanks to the material’s elasticity
- Maximum scratch-resistant surface
- Returns to its original shape after being bent
Aluminium
Aluminium suitcases bear the marks of use with dignity. Every dent tells the story of a journey. The TITAN series ETERNITY is handcrafted by a single person at our own production facility in Germany.
- Exceptional dimensional stability
- TITAN Smart Frame distributes impact forces evenly across the structure
- Genuine leather handles for maximum comfort
- Premium ball-bearing wheels for quiet, smooth rolling
Details that make all the difference
Material and size are the obvious criteria. It is the details that only become apparent whilst travelling.
- Wheels: High-quality double wheels with ball bearings run quietly and smoothly, even on cobblestones or uneven ground. With the ETERNITY, premium ball-bearing wheels ensure that even fully packed luggage rolls effortlessly.
- Telescopic handle: The handle on ETERNITY can be locked into any position, allowing it to adapt precisely to any height. On UPGRADE and OVERSEAS, the handle locks into fixed positions but remains reliable even under lateral pressure.
- TSA lock: Mandatory for travel to the USA; a convenience for all other journeys. Customs officers can open TSA locks with a universal key without damaging the lock.
- Interior features: The Y-shape strap system keeps clothes securely in place, even when the suitcase is on the baggage carousel or is tilted. The packing divider separates the two halves of the suitcase and protects delicate garments from slipping. The lockable divider prevents the contents from falling out when the suitcase is open. Once you’ve travelled with these three features, you won’t want to be without them.
The TITAN range of suitcases
UPGRADE
Polycarbonate, water-repellent zip, lightweight, modern colour range. For travellers who prioritise style and weight.
OVERSEAS
Polycarbonate, a globally unique frame construction, extra-large TSA locks, maximum stability. For frequent travellers and long-haul flights.
ETERNITY
Aluminium, handcrafted in Germany, Smart Frame, genuine leather handles, premium ball-bearing wheels. For the highest standards in materials and craftsmanship.
All three ranges from TITAN are Made in Germany and come with a 10-year warranty.
Frequently asked questions about buying suitcases
Hard-shell suitcases with TSA locks are the most reliable choice. They protect the contents from pressure in the hold and can be opened during customs checks without being damaged.
A hard-shell case seals hermetically and distributes forces across the entire structure. A soft-shell case is lighter and offers greater flexibility when packing. Which is more suitable depends on how often you travel and the type of luggage you carry.
Polycarbonate is more impact-resistant, lighter and more durable than ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). It absorbs shocks and returns to its original shape without breaking.
For travellers who demand high standards of craftsmanship and durability, aluminium is the obvious choice. The surface bears signs of wear that add character. What remains is a design that will last for decades.
