Why Medium Checked?

Medium checked bags (24-26") typically weigh 8-10 lbs empty, leaving 40+ lbs of packing capacity within the standard 50 lb limit. They're easier to maneuver than large bags while offering enough space for 5-7 days.

Top Medium Checked Picks

Samsonite Freeform 24
Best Overall

Samsonite Freeform 24" Spinner

24" x 16.5" x 11" | 8.3 lbs | Hardside

  • Lightweight polycarbonate
  • Double spinner wheels
  • TSA-compatible lock
  • Cross straps and divider
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25
Best Lightweight

Travelpro Maxlite 5 25" Expandable

25" x 18" x 11" | 6.6 lbs | Softside

  • Ultra-light at 6.6 lbs
  • 2" expansion capability
  • Water-resistant coating
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 25
Best Durability

Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 25" Spinner

25" x 17" x 10.5" | 9.4 lbs | Hardside

  • 100% polycarbonate
  • Side-mounted TSA locks
  • Multi-directional wheels
  • 10-year warranty
American Tourister Moonlight 24
Best Budget

American Tourister Moonlight 24"

24" x 16" x 11.5" | 8.2 lbs | Hardside

  • Expandable design
  • Multi-directional wheels
  • Fun pattern options
  • Great value
LEVEL8 Elegance 24
Best Design

LEVEL8 Elegance 24" Check-In

24" x 16.5" x 10.5" | 9.5 lbs | Hardside

  • German Makrolon shell
  • Aluminum corner guards
  • Silent Hinomoto wheels
  • Lifetime warranty
Delsey Paris Chatelet 24
Most Stylish

Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 24" Spinner

24" x 16" x 10" | 9.2 lbs | Hardside

  • Elegant Parisian design
  • Brake system on wheels
  • Interior organization
  • 10-year warranty

Medium Checked Capacity

A 24-26" medium checked bag typically holds:

  • 5-7 days of clothing
  • 2-3 pairs of shoes
  • Toiletries and personal items
  • Electronics and accessories
  • Light outerwear

Weight Considerations

With a bag weighing 8-10 lbs empty and a 50 lb airline limit, you have 40+ lbs of packing capacity. This is more than enough for a week of travel, with room to spare for souvenirs on the return trip.

Avoiding Overweight Fees

  • Weigh your bag at home before leaving
  • Wear heavy items (boots, jacket) on the plane
  • Move heavy items to carry-on if needed at check-in
  • Consider a portable luggage scale for the return trip