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maleta means suitcase — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 27, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

maleta

noun • /[mah-LEH-tah]/

suitcase

Example:

Tu maleta salió primero en la cinta.

Your suitcase came out first on the belt.

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🧠 What does maleta mean?

A 'maleta' is a suitcase, the kind you pack your clothes and belongings in for a trip. It specifically refers to a rigid or hard-sided suitcase, as opposed to a soft bag or backpack. While you might hear 'valija' used interchangeably in some regions, 'maleta' is generally understood across the Spanish-speaking world.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito comprar una maleta nueva para mi viaje a España.
    I need to buy a new suitcase for my trip to Spain.
  • ¿Puedes ayudarme a subir la maleta al coche?
    Can you help me lift the suitcase into the car?
  • Mi maleta está llena de recuerdos de mis vacaciones.
    My suitcase is full of souvenirs from my vacation.
  • Perdí mi maleta en el aeropuerto.
    I lost my suitcase at the airport.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'suitcase' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'suitcase' in Spanish is 'maleta'.
How do you pronounce 'maleta' in Spanish?
It's pronounced mah-LEH-tah. The stress is on the second syllable.
How do you use 'maleta' in a sentence?
Here are a few examples: 'Mi maleta está llena.' (My suitcase is full.) or '¿Dónde está tu maleta?' (Where is your suitcase?)
What is the English translation of 'maleta'?
'Maleta' translates to 'suitcase' in English.
Does 'maleta' change for gender or number?
No, 'maleta' is always feminine and its plural is 'maletas'.
Is 'maleta' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'maleta' is a very common word, especially when talking about travel.
Does 'maleta' have slang or double meanings?
Not really. It's a straightforward word for 'suitcase'.
Is 'maleta' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
While 'maleta' is understood everywhere, you might also hear 'valija' used in some parts of Latin America, although 'maleta' is generally preferred and more common.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "maleta"

Synonyms: valija

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'maleta' comes from the Old French word 'malette', which originally referred to a small bag or pouch.

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