Advice from Tom Gannon (of Lynn Travel Inc), Your Resident Travel Advisor
This is based on my traveling abroad since 1971 when we visited the Soviet Union.
Size Does Matter: Cabs, rental cars, hired limos, etc. are all smaller internationally. They define a large suitcase as a 20" roller bag. I contend that you may get away with a 26" bag but nothing more.
Don't be seduced by the ads for hard shell bags versus soft. Soft are much better in terms of weight and your ability to add a couple of pieces of clothing at the last minute. The flexibility is key. In truth, the hard-shell suitcases tend to be destroyed faster than soft-side ones.
Remember: whether on a cruise, bus tour or private tour you may need to handle your own suitcase. Ask yourself, can I lift my suitcase and put it in an overhead rack on a train or get it down to the lobby if you can't get a bellman or carry it upstairs in small inn or B&B?
Don't end up in Physical Therapy by carrying a smaller hand luggage through an airport. If you are checking your bag(recommended for international travel) always make your hand luggage is smaller roller bag which will fit under the seat in front of you. If you are not checking your 16"-19" roller bag, make sure it meets the requirements of your airline. Frontier, Spirit, and Allegiant have much more restrictive requirements than the major airlines. Know your carrier.
While most bags are not lost or delayed, when it happens it is traumatic. Airlines only provide a very minimal amount of compensation. I am sure you have already packed all important documents and medically sensitive items in your hand luggage, but don't forget some essential clothing. On one of my more recent tours, luggage was delayed three days for one couple and six days for another couple.
Happy and safe travels.
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