Translation guide
A suitcase is a rectangular piece of luggage with a handle, used for carrying clothes and other items when traveling. In Japanese, the most common word is スーツケース, a loanword from English. Other terms exist for different types of luggage, but スーツケース is the best default.
A rectangular bag with a handle, typically used for travel.
The most common and direct translation. Used for typical hard or soft suitcases with wheels and a handle.
I bought a new suitcase.
Pack a suitcase.
Literally 'travel bag'. A more general term that can include suitcases, duffel bags, etc. Less specific than スーツケース.
Check in a suitcase.
Often refers to a carry-on suitcase or a small wheeled suitcase. Can be used interchangeably with スーツケース in casual contexts.
Bring a carry-on suitcase onto the plane.
A large, often old-fashioned trunk used for long trips or storage.
Refers to a large trunk, often without wheels, like a steamer trunk. Not used for modern wheeled suitcases.
I found my grandmother's old trunk.
スーツケース is the standard word for a modern suitcase, usually with wheels and a telescopic handle. キャリーケース often implies a smaller, carry-on size, but can be used broadly. トランク refers to a large, old-fashioned trunk without wheels, not a typical suitcase.
Pick up a suitcase at the airport.
Can I bring a carry-on suitcase on board?
The trunk is too heavy to carry.