Tell me about 21 " suitcases!
 

What are the dimensions of this suitcase? I presume 21" high - what else? This is often mentioned on Fodors as a desirable size case, especially with wheels. Do they roll down the middle of a train aisle easily? Do they fit into the rack above you on trains?

google "luggage", the dimensions vary by manufacturer.

In general they are approx 21 X 14 X 9 inches. But evey brand varies a little bit.

As the measurements from janis (correctly) suggest, it is only 21 inches "high" when standing with its long axis up (as it is when you pull it with its extension handle) - - in other words, the size and shape popularized by flight attendants and often known as a "rollaboard" (I think this is actually a trademarked name that has become somewhat generic).

I think of it as 21 inches "long", since that's the dimension it seems to be, when laid on the bed to pack it.

This is in contrast to a <i>big</i> suitcase (which I fear you are imagining) - - which is 26 or more inches &quot;long&quot;, 21 or more inches &quot;high&quot; and can &quot;roll down the aisle&quot; with its long axis parallel to the aisle itself. But as a corollary, it can weigh 50 or 60 pounds when fully packed - - and the average traveler might well regret taking such a big piece of luggage.

I still maintain that one of the most important (and oft overlooked) property of any piece of luggage is how <i>lightweight</i> is it when it's <i>empty</i>. A 22 inch (my preference) nylon &quot;rollaboard&quot; can be readily found that weighs no more than EIGHT pounds when empty.

Couple that with a small-medium nylon duffel - - that weighs no more than eight OUNCES when empty - - and you can take all kinds of personal belingings.

And you can lift/carry/transport either/both just about anywhere you want to go.

Best wishes,

Rex

You can put it overhead, but the question is, can you lift it?
I almost dropped mine when travelling alone . Luckily some sweet young man came to my rescue.

People who cannot lift their own luggage shouldn't pack so much. Lucky that you found a beast of burden.

you're right, but he was hardly a beast of burden. We had a delightful flioght!

flight!

yes, they should fit on overhead racks on trains. Why don't you just go to a store and look at some so you'll get an idea how big they are and the dimensions?

Many thanks everyone!