How to Measure Luggage

Co-authored by Amy Tan

Last Updated: November 5, 2022

If you’re taking a flight somewhere, chances are you’ll need to bring some luggage along. Since airlines have requirements for the size and weight of the luggage you can bring on the plane, you'll need to measure your luggage correctly. Start by making sure you know what you’re getting when you purchase a new bag. Then take the most common measurements, including linear inches, weight, and height, depth, and width. Taking these measurements ahead of time can save you a headache at the airport.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Selecting the Right Bag

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Check your airline’s bag requirements. Each airline has slightly different requirements for checked and carry-on baggage.^{[1]
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Amy Tan
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Expert Interview. 12 March 2020.} You should be able to find that information on your airline’s website, usually under "Frequently Asked Questions."
- Keep in mind that the airline’s website will have the most up-to-date information.
Some bags have a little zipper around the edge that doesn’t open into a new section, but instead extends your bag. If you think you’ll need to use this extension, make sure you measure your bag with it unzipped and extended.^{[2]
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A lot of luggage retailers will advertise that their bags are “carry-on compliant.” They’ll also list measurements that seem to fit with most airlines’ carry-on size requirements. But always measure the bag on your own before you pack it and take it to the airport. Different airlines have different requirements, and retailers don’t always have accurate measurements.^{[3]
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Your bag might fit within the airline's requirements when it's empty, but adding your stuff to it can change the dimensions. Pack everything you need to take and then re-measure it.
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Compare carry-on and checked bag measurements. Most airlines allow you to bring a larger bag if you're checking it. Make sure you know if you're carrying on a bag or checking it, and that you have your airline's measurement requirements for the type of bag that you've chosen.
- Most airlines have strict weight requirements for checked luggage. Make sure you weigh your bag, after it's fully packed, to make sure it's within those requirements.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Taking Measurements

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Because bags can be so many different shapes and sizes, some airlines just give a linear inch or centimeter measurement your bag needs to be under. Measure the length, height, and depth of your bag, including handles and wheels. Add those three measurements together. The total is your linear measurement, in either centimeters or inches.^{[4]
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Measure from the wheels to the top of the handle for height. Some retailers list height as the “upright” measurement. To get the height of your bag, measure from bottom of the wheels (if your bag has wheels) to the top of your handle.^{[5]
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- If you’re using a duffle bag, stand it on its end and measure from one end to the other.
The depth refers to how deep your suitcase is. So for depth you need to measure from the back of your suitcase (where your clothes rest when you’re packing) to the front (which usually has extra zip and slip pockets).
To take your luggage’s width measurement, you’ll need to situate it so you’re facing your luggage straight on. Then measure across the front of your bag. Make sure you include any side handles in your measurements.
Each airline has a weight limit for carry-on and checked luggage. Take into consideration that your bag will weigh something, even when empty. If you have a scale at home, weigh your bag after it’s fully packed. It can help you avoid nasty fees or having to throw stuff out at the airport.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

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Question

Why must I include the length of the retractable handle?

Community Answer

Retract the handle. You should only have to measure any part that doesn't totally retract and/or any extra height added by a closed flap or zipper cover.

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Question

What is the carton size for traveling on a plane?

Community Answer

The carton sizes and weights are according to your airline and distance. Before going on a flight, check luggage allowances from your airline's website or contact them directly.

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Can trucking bags be taken as hand baggage?

Community Answer

Yes and no. Yes, if it meets the TSA size requirement (go to the home website) then yes. I recommend not bringing the big ones, especially if you want to hold it as a hand bag because there is a high possibility they won't let you.

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