Suitcases for Train Travel & Car Vacations – The Ultimate Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Hard-shell or soft-sided luggage?
3. Choosing the right suitcase size
4. Wheel systems: 2 or 4 wheels?
5. Special requirements for train travel
6. Optimally selecting luggage for car holidays
7. Important features
8. Popular materials compared
9. Practical packing tips
10. Avoiding common mistakes
11. Conclusion and buying recommendation

Introduction

Choosing the right suitcase can determine the success or failure of your trip. Train and car journeys, in particular, have different requirements than flying. While air travelers are often faced with hard-shell cases and strict weight limits, train and car travel offer more flexibility – but also require different priorities when choosing luggage.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to consider when buying a suitcase for train travel and car holidays. From optimal dimensions to material questions and practical equipment details – we will help you make the perfect decision.

Hard-shell or soft-sided luggage?

Soft-sided luggage: The flexible companion for train and car

Advantages of soft-sided luggage:

• Flexibility: The material yields and adapts to different storage spaces – ideal for a packed car trunk or cramped train compartments
• Lighter weight: Fabric suitcases weigh significantly less than hard-shell models, thus preserving your luggage limit
• Outer pockets: Additional compartments allow quick access to travel documents, snacks, or electronic devices
• Expansion pleats: Many models can be expanded by 10-20% – perfect for souvenirs on the return journey
• Space-saving: In small hotel rooms or narrow train compartments, soft-sided luggage requires less space when opened
• Price-performance: In the same price range, fabric suitcases often offer more volume than hard-shell models

Disadvantages of soft-sided luggage:

• Less protection for fragile items
• Not completely waterproof (only water-repellent)
• More susceptible to dirt
• Less robust with rough handling

Ideal areas of use: Soft-sided luggage is excellent for train and car travel, as luggage is usually handled by oneself, and the material's flexibility is an advantage when stowing it in the car trunk or on luggage racks.

Hard-shell: Robust protection with limitations

Advantages of hard-shell suitcases:

• Maximum protection: Sensitive electronics and fragile souvenirs are safely stored
• Water-repellent: Your clothes stay dry even in the rain
• Easy to clean: Dirt can be easily wiped off
• Modern look: Hard-shell suitcases often appear more high-quality
• Theft protection: Cannot be cut open

Disadvantages of hard-shell suitcases:

• Inflexible: Do not adapt to limited storage spaces
• Prone to scratches: Especially inexpensive models scratch quickly
• Heavier: For the same volume, hard-shell suitcases weigh more
• No outer pockets: Quick access to important items is not possible
• Space required when opening: Need more space as both sides are unfolded

Recommendation for train travel and car holidays: Hard-shell suitcases are less optimal for these types of travel. In a car, they take up valuable space that cannot be used flexibly. On trains, rigid suitcases fit less well into luggage racks and between seats.

Materials in detail

Soft-sided luggage materials:

• Polyester: Robust, lightweight, and inexpensive – the standard for fabric suitcases
• Nylon: Even more tear-resistant than polyester and very durable
• Ripstop fabric: Particularly tear-resistant due to special weaving technique

Hard-shell materials:

• Polycarbonate: Lightweight, flexible, and unbreakable – the premium material
• Polypropylene: Extremely impact-resistant, but prone to scratches
• ABS plastic: Inexpensive and robust, but heavier than modern alternatives

Choosing the right suitcase size

The suitcase size should be based on the duration of your trip and the type of travel. For train travel, you also need to consider limited storage spaces.

Size S: Carry-on (55-56 cm height)

• Volume: 30-40 liters
• Suitable for: 2-4 days, weekend trips, business trips
• Special feature: Fits as carry-on luggage in overhead compartments above the seats
• Advantage for train travel: Always stays near you, no need to drag it to distant luggage racks

Size M: Medium (63-68 cm height)

• Volume: 50-70 liters
• Suitable for: 5-7 days, one-week holiday
• Special feature: Many models have volume expansion (+10% storage space)
• Recommendation for train: Optimal, as dimensions up to 70 x 50 x 30 cm usually fit into standard luggage racks

Size L: Large (71-79 cm height)

• Volume: 75-95 liters
• Suitable for: 1-2 weeks, family holidays
• Caution for train travel: Often does not fit into regular luggage racks, must be stored in special luggage areas
• For car holidays: Ideal if sufficient trunk space is available

Size XL: Extra large (from 80 cm height)

• Volume: 100+ liters
• Suitable for: Multi-week trips, moving
• For train travel: Only conditionally suitable, often bulky and difficult to handle
• For car holidays: Recommended only for large vehicles

Special notes for Deutsche Bahn

Luggage racks on long-distance trains typically have dimensions of 700 x 500 x 300 mm (H x W x D). Suitcases up to these dimensions fit easily.

Important exceptions:

• IC2 (Intercity 2): Due to the double-decker construction, the overhead compartments are significantly smaller and not suitable for suitcases
• Compartment carriages: Only overhead luggage racks are available, no large luggage racks

Carry-on principle: With Deutsche Bahn, in addition to hand luggage, you can take a "carry-on" – i.e., a suitcase or backpack that you can carry alone. There is no fixed weight limit, but the luggage must be able to be carried by one person alone.

Wheel systems: 2 or 4 wheels?

The choice of wheel system significantly influences comfort during transport.

2-wheel system (Upright)

Functionality: The suitcase is tilted and pulled behind you. The two wheels are located at the bottom.

Advantages:

• Stability: Stands on its own and does not roll away – ideal on trains and sloping platforms
• Robustness: Fewer wear parts, as only two wheels are used
• Off-road capability: Also works on cobblestones and uneven paths
• More packing volume: The wheels take up less internal space

Disadvantages:

• Must be tilted during transport
• Strains the arm with heavy luggage
• Less agile in confined spaces

Recommendation: Ideal for travelers who are often on uneven ground or need to pull the suitcase for longer periods.

4-wheel system (Spinner)

Functionality: The suitcase can be pushed upright next to you. All four wheels are 360-degree rotatable.

Advantages:

• Effortless maneuvering: Can be pushed and turned in all directions
• Back-friendly: No tilting necessary, weight is not transferred to the arm
• Perfect for trains: Easy navigation through narrow aisles
• Agile: Ideal for crowded train stations and platforms

Disadvantages:

• Risk of rolling: Can roll away on trains if not secured
• More susceptible: Four wheels mean more potential weak points
• Not for all terrain: More difficult to handle on gravel or cobblestones
• Less packing volume: Wheels take up more space inside

Recommendation: Optimal for train travelers and city trips with smooth, even surfaces. Especially practical on trains for transport through aisles.

Which system for which journey?

For train travel: Prefer 4-wheel system

• Easy maneuvering in narrow train aisles
• Comfortable pushing even with heavy luggage
• Perfect for smooth train station floors

For car holidays: Both systems suitable

• 2 wheels if you travel a lot in rural areas
• 4 wheels for city trips and hotels

Important: For 4-wheel suitcases on trains, make sure the suitcase is secured and cannot roll away!

Special requirements for train travel

Deutsche Bahn luggage regulations

Permitted luggage:

• Hand luggage (laptop bag, backpack, small bag)
• PLUS one carry-on item (large suitcase, travel bag, or backpack)
• PLUS optional stroller, bicycle, or orthopedic aid

Important: No exact weight or quantity limit, but luggage must:

• Be carried by one person alone
• Fit through the doors (partially only 70 cm wide)
• Not obstruct other travelers
• Be storable in the designated areas

Optimal storage options on the train

1. Overhead luggage racks:

• For hand luggage, small backpacks, and bags
• Available on all trains
• Limited space

2. Luggage racks in open-plan areas:

• Standard dimensions: 70 x 50 x 30 cm
• Located at the beginning, middle, or end of the carriages
• Suitable for medium to large suitcases

3. Space between seat rows:

• When seats are back-to-back
• Ideal for narrow, medium-sized suitcases

4. Under the seat:

• For very small bags and backpacks
• Similar to on an airplane

Safety tips for train travel

Supervise luggage: Deutsche Bahn assumes no liability for your luggage. You are responsible for supervising it yourself.

Seat reservation: If your suitcase cannot be stored within sight, reserve a seat near the luggage racks.

TSA lock: Not required for train travel in Germany, but a sturdy lock protects against unauthorized opening. Important: A lock does NOT protect against theft – stay near your luggage.

Address tag: Attach an address tag visibly to your suitcase. In case of confusion, this facilitates its return.

DB Luggage Service – The stress-free alternative

For relaxed travel without dragging luggage, Deutsche Bahn offers a luggage service in cooperation with Hermes.

Option 1: Drop off at a PaketShop yourself

• Price: 13.90 € per direction
• Maximum dimensions: 120 x 60 x 60 cm
• Maximum weight: 25 kg
• Shipping time: 2 business days (to North Sea islands 3 business days)

Option 2: Home collection

• Price: 24.90 € per direction
• Maximum dimensions: 120 x 60 x 60 cm
• Maximum weight: 31.5 kg
• Collection: Monday to Saturday, 8 AM - 6 PM
• Preferred time window: Bookable for an additional 6 €

Particularly useful for:

• Family trips with a lot of luggage
• Longer layovers
• Ski or golf holidays
• Spa and rehabilitation stays
• Travel with strollers

Optimally selecting luggage for car holidays

Special features for car holidays

For car journeys, completely different priorities apply than for train travel:

No carry-on restriction: You don't have to carry luggage for long, so weight is less critical.

Trunk optimization: The available space is limited – flexible luggage can be stacked better and squeezed into gaps.

Frequent loading and unloading: For round trips with several stops, luggage should be easily accessible.

Prefer soft-sided luggage for car journeys

Why soft-sided luggage is ideal:

1. Flexibility: Adapts to the available trunk space
2. Outer pockets: Quick access to snacks, drinks, travel documents
3. Lighter: More space for luggage contents instead of heavy suitcase material
4. Utilize gaps: Can be squeezed into irregular spaces

Hard-shell only if:

• You are transporting sensitive electronics
• Your car has a very spacious, uniformly shaped trunk
• You value easy cleaning

Travel bags vs. trolleys for car journeys

Travel bags:

• Even more flexible than trolley suitcases
• Easier to store without wheels
• Ideal for short distances from the car to the accommodation
• More affordable to purchase

Trolleys:

• More comfortable for longer walks
• Better organized with interior compartments
• Suitable if you also visit hotels in city centers

Hybrid solutions: Some manufacturers offer travel bags with integrated wheels and extendable handles – the best of both worlds.

Packing tips for the car trunk

Heavy luggage at the bottom: Stack heavy suitcases as a base, lighter ones on top – prevents slipping during the drive.

Small bags for gaps: Use duffel bags or soft backpacks to fill in spaces.

Separate by use: Pack overnight luggage separately from beach essentials or hiking gear.

Privacy screen: Cover valuable luggage with a blanket or use the cargo area floor to prevent break-ins.

Important features

Telescopic handle: Comfort for all heights

Height adjustability: Look for multiple locking levels (at least 3) to optimally adjust the handle to your height.

Handle material:

• Padded: Comfortable for prolonged pulling
• Rubberized: Non-slip even when wet
• Ergonomically shaped: Protects the hand with heavy luggage

Single vs. double pole:

• Single pole handle: Lighter and more compact, sufficient for carry-on and medium-sized suitcases
• Double pole handle: More stable and durable, recommended for large suitcases over 70 cm

Locking mechanism: High-quality push-button system prevents unintentional retraction of the handle.

Carry handles: Versatility is key

Top Handle:

• Padded: Prevents pressure points when lifting
• Recessed handle: Particularly comfortable, but less common
• Securely fastened: Must be able to support the full weight

Side Handle: Makes it easier to lift the suitcase into luggage racks or car trunks. Often less padded than the top handle.

Bottom (optional): Some premium suitcases also have a handle on the bottom – practical for pulling out of tight storage spaces.

Interior Layout: Organization is Everything

Packing straps/cross straps: Keep clothes in place and prevent shifting during travel.

Zippered divider: Separates clean from dirty laundry or different personal areas.

Interior pockets:

• Mesh pockets for small items
• Zippered compartments for valuables
• Shoe compartments (with ventilation)

Laundry compartment: Separate area for worn clothes – practical for round trips.

Expansion Zipper: Flexible Space Reserve

Many medium-sized suitcases (M/L) offer an expansion zipper – an additional zipper that expands the volume by 10-20%.

Advantages:

• Perfect for souvenirs and purchases
• More compact for the outbound journey if needed
• Usually only costs €10-20 more

Disadvantages:

• Slightly reduces stability
• Not available on all models
• Harder to close when fully expanded

Lock: Choose Security Wisely

For train travel in Germany: A simple combination lock (3-digit) is perfectly sufficient. Its main function is to prevent unauthorized opening.

TSA lock: Only necessary for USA travel. Not required for train journeys in Europe.

Important: No lock protects against theft of the entire suitcase! The main protection is to keep an eye on your luggage.

Wheels: Recognizing Quality

Ball-bearing: High-quality wheels have ball bearings and run significantly quieter and smoother.

Rubber coating: Protects the floor and is quieter than hard plastic wheels.

Size:

• Small wheels (4-5 cm): Agile, but more susceptible to uneven surfaces
• Large wheels (6-8 cm): Smoother rolling and more suitable for rough terrain

Replaceable: Make sure that wheels can be replaced if defective. Many manufacturers offer spare parts.

Popular Materials Compared

Softside Luggage Materials

Polyester:

• Properties: Water-repellent, lightweight, easy to clean
• Durability: Good for normal use
• Price: Inexpensive to medium
• Ideal for: Budget travelers and occasional users

Nylon:

• Properties: More tear-resistant than polyester, very robust
• Durability: Excellent even with frequent use
• Price: Medium to high
• Ideal for: Frequent travelers, business trips

Ballistic Nylon:

• Properties: Extremely tear-resistant, originally developed for military use
• Durability: Lasts for decades
• Price: High
• Ideal for: Premium buyers looking for a lifetime suitcase

Cordura:

• Properties: Very abrasion-resistant, as robust as Ballistic Nylon
• Durability: Excellent
• Price: High
• Ideal for: Outdoor travel, harsh conditions

Hardside Luggage Materials

Polycarbonate (PC):

• Properties: Lightweight, flexible, shatterproof
• Advantages: Returns to original shape after deformation
• Disadvantages: More expensive than ABS
• Brand examples: Samsonite Cosmolite, Neopulse
• Ideal for: Premium buyers who value light weight

Polypropylene (PP):

• Properties: Extremely impact-resistant, very hard
• Advantages: Most affordable hardside plastic
• Disadvantages: Scratches easily, heavier than polycarbonate
• Ideal for: Budget hardside suitcases

ABS Plastic:

• Properties: Robust, affordable
• Advantages: Good value for money
• Disadvantages: Heavier and less flexible than polycarbonate
• Ideal for: Entry-level hardside suitcases

Polycarbonate blends (ABS+PC):

• Properties: Combines advantages of both materials
• Advantages: Cheaper than pure PC, more robust than pure ABS
• Ideal for: Mid-range suitcases with good value for money

Aluminum:

• Properties: Extremely robust, elegant appearance
• Advantages: Virtually indestructible, can only dent
• Disadvantages: Very heavy, very expensive
• Brand examples: Rimowa Classic
• Ideal for: Luxury segment, collectors

Practical Packing Tips

Efficient Packing for Train Travel

Most important rule: Keep frequently needed items within reach in outside pockets!

Separate hand luggage bag: Even if your suitcase is in the luggage rack, you should have a small bag with these items:

• Travel documents (ticket, ID)
• Wallet and mobile phone
• Medication
• Snacks and drinks
• Entertainment (book, headphones)
• Charging cable

Rolling method instead of folding: Rolling clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles.

Fill shoes with socks: Use the space in shoes for socks or underwear.

Use packing cubes: Organize clothes by category (tops, pants, underwear) in separate packing cubes – makes it easier to find items and keeps things tidy.

Optimize Weight Distribution

For 4-wheel suitcases: Pack heavy items at the bottom and towards the middle – prevents tipping when rolling.

For 2-wheel suitcases: Place heavy items near the wheels – makes it easier to tilt and pull.

Save Space Systematically

Vacuum bags: Reduce clothing volume by up to 50% – ideal for winter clothing.

Multi-purpose items: Sarong usable as beach towel, blanket, or scarf – saves space and weight.

Miniature versions: Use travel sizes for cosmetics and hygiene products.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Suitcases too large for train travel

Problem: Large suitcases (over 70 cm) don't fit into standard luggage racks and must be stowed in remote areas.

Solution: For train travel, choose a maximum size M (68 cm) or use the DB luggage service.

Mistake 2: Hardshell for car holidays

Problem: Rigid suitcases cannot be optimally stowed in the trunk, wasting space.

Solution: For car trips, opt for flexible softside suitcases or travel bags.

Mistake 3: 4-wheel suitcase unsecured on the train

Problem: Suitcases with 4 wheels roll uncontrollably down the aisle during train movement.

Solution: Always place it against a seat row or wall, secure it with a luggage strap if necessary.

Mistake 4: Cheap no-name suitcases

Problem: Wheels break after a few trips, zippers get stuck, handles malfunction.

Solution: Invest in quality brands – a good suitcase lasts 10+ years.

Mistake 5: Incorrect body height adjustment

Problem: A too-short telescopic handle leads to back pain, a too-long one to tripping.

Solution: Adjust the handle so that your arm is slightly bent when pulling.

Mistake 6: Overpacking the suitcase

Problem: Zipper is hard to close, contents are crushed, expansion zipper cannot be used.

Solution: Only fill the suitcase to 80% – leaves room for souvenirs and protects the material.

Mistake 7: Valuables in checked luggage

Problem: In case of luggage theft or loss, important items are gone.

Solution: ALWAYS carry valuables, medication, and important documents in your hand luggage.

Conclusion and Purchase Recommendation

The Ideal Suitcase Combination

For flexible travelers, we recommend the following basic equipment:

• 1. Carry-on trolley (Size S):
• 4 wheels for easy maneuvering
• Hardside or softside depending on preference
• For short trips and as carry-on for longer journeys

2. Medium-sized suitcase (Size M):

• Softside with 4 wheels
• Expansion zipper for flexibility
• Perfect for week-long train and car trips

3. Optional: Travel bag (50-60 liters):

• For car holidays with multiple stops
• Flexible for stowing
• Also usable as a sports bag in everyday life

Checklist: What to look for when buying

✅ Material: Softside for train and car, hardside only if special protection is needed
✅ Wheel system: 4 wheels for train travel, 2 or 4 wheels for car holidays
✅ Size: Maximum 68 cm for easy stowage on trains
✅ Telescopic handle: Multi-height adjustable, securely fastened
✅ Wheels: Ball-bearing, rubberized, preferably replaceable
✅ Weight: For size M, not over 3.5 kg empty weight
✅ Expansion zipper: At least 10% volume expansion
✅ Outer pockets: For quick access during train travel
✅ Interior layout: Packing straps, divider, mesh pockets
✅ Lock: Combination lock sufficient for train travel
✅ Workmanship: Clean seams, sturdy zippers
✅ Warranty: At least 2 years manufacturer's warranty

Budget Recommendations

Entry-level (€50-100):

• Travelite Basics
• American Tourister Bon Air (Hardside)
• Stratic Unbeatable (Softside)

Mid-range (€100-200):

• Samsonite Base Boost
• Delsey Montmartre Pro (Softside)
• Titan Spotlight Flash (4 wheels)

Premium (€200-400):

• Samsonite Neopulse
• Tumi Alpha 3
• Rimowa Essential (Hardside)

Special Recommendations

Best Train Travel Suitcase: Softside trolley size M (65-68 cm) with 4 wheels, expansion zipper, and several outer pockets

Best Car Holiday Suitcase: Flexible travel bag with wheels or softside suitcase with maximum packing flexibility

All-rounder for both types of travel: Softside suitcase size M with 4 wheels, made of robust nylon, with expansion zipper and organizational compartments

Consider Sustainability

Durability: A high-quality suitcase for €200 lasts 10 years, a cheap model for €50 only 2 years. The investment is worthwhile ecologically and financially.

Repairability: Look for manufacturers that offer spare parts. Wheels, handles, and zippers should be replaceable.

Materials: Some manufacturers use recycled materials (e.g., Samsonite ECO-Nu made from recycled PET bottles).

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right suitcase for train travel and car holidays doesn't have to be complicated. The most important realization: Flexibility beats robustness for these types of travel.

While air travelers often rely on heavy hardshell suitcases, train and car travelers benefit from the mobility and adaptability of softside luggage. The combination of a 4-wheel system, medium size, and well-thought-out features makes your journey relaxed and comfortable.

Invest in quality – a good suitcase is a loyal companion for many years and numerous adventures. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: How much luggage can I take on Deutsche Bahn?
A: One piece of hand luggage plus one item of load (a suitcase/backpack that you can carry yourself). There is no fixed weight limit.

Q: Do large suitcases fit on trains?
A: Suitcases up to 70 x 50 x 30 cm fit into standard luggage racks. Larger suitcases must be stowed in special areas.

Q: Do I need a TSA lock for train travel?
A: No, TSA locks are only required for USA travel. A normal combination lock is sufficient for train journeys.

Q: Are 2 or 4 wheels better?
A: For train travel, 4 wheels are more comfortable and agile. For car travel on uneven surfaces, 2 wheels can be more stable.

Q: What suitcase size for a week?
A: Size M (63-68 cm) is ideal for 5-7 days. With an expansion zipper, it offers enough reserve for souvenirs.

Q: Can I easily stow the suitcase on the IC2?
A: No, the IC2 has significantly smaller luggage racks. Use the luggage racks at the end of the carriages here.

Q: Is the DB luggage service worthwhile?
A: Yes, especially for family trips, many transfers, or heavy luggage. Costs from €13.90 and saves a lot of stress.

Q: How do I clean my suitcase?
A: Hardside: Wipe with a damp cloth and dish soap. Softside: Treat stains with soapy water, do not put in washing machine.

Q: Are suitcase sets cheaper?
A: Yes, sets of 3 suitcases (S, M, L) are often 30% cheaper than individual purchases. Worthwhile for families or frequent varied trips.

Q: What to do if the wheels break?
A: Brand manufacturers offer replacement wheels. Wheel replacement is usually possible with a screwdriver yourself. Alternatively: Suitcase repair service.

This guide was last updated in February 2026. Prices and product availability may change.