Ted, I'd go with the smaller one if there is any way you can swing it in terms of packing volume. There are two factors to consider: size AND weight. If history teaches us anything at all, then we know luggage regulations will rather become stricter in the future than being loosened up again.

LH is already a stickler for weight. I don't know how bad they are in business/first but I can tell you that they are baaad in coach.

Are the cases you are thinking about 4 or 2 wheel cases? Maybe you can gain some volume by going with a 2-wheeler. Really all you need for a small suitcase.

I think it was Swissaire, the resident expert on all things Rimowa, who said it seemed to him that LH was a bit more lenient with Rimowa luggage because they also sell that in their own shops. He also travels to Asia quite a bit and will hopefully chime in here.

I think it's important to be an efficient packer. If you think there is room for improvement (there always is ), then read the packing sticky on top of this page. Many tips to be gleaned.

The good thing about those cases is that they are practically identical in terms of max length. That is important for packing a suit. So even if you choose the smaller case, you don't lose room needed for the shoulders of a jacket.

Safe travels,

Till