How Do I Measure Luggage? Tips for Accurate Sizing

• Measure your luggage’s height, width, and depth, including wheels and handles, to calculate total linear inches.
• Most airlines have specific size and weight limits for carry-on and checked luggage.
• Use a measuring tape and weigh your luggage on a scale to avoid baggage fees.
• Always check your airline’s website before flying, as size requirements may vary.
• Understanding linear inches and expandable sections helps ensure compliance.

Introduction

Knowing how to measure your luggage correctly is essential for a smooth airport experience. With strict baggage size and weight limits enforced by most airlines, inaccurate measurements could lead to unexpected fees or delays at check-in. By understanding how to measure your suitcase, including handles and wheels, you can ensure it fits within the dimensions set for overhead bins or checked luggage. This guide outlines the tools, techniques, and terms you need to measure your luggage accurately.

Luggage Size Requirements in the U.S.

What Do Airlines Consider as Luggage Size?

Airlines in the U.S. measure luggage size using a method known as “linear inches,” the sum of your bag’s height, width, and depth. For example, if your suitcase measures 24 inches high, 16 inches wide, and 14 inches deep, the total is 54 linear inches.

Each airline may have slight variations in their size policies, but the general standards are

Before packing, visit your airline’s website to review their exact luggage policies, especially for international travel or budget carriers that may enforce stricter rules.

Why Accurate Measurement Matters

Incorrect luggage measurements can lead to oversized baggage fees or delays at the airport. Inaccurate dimensions, especially if wheels and handles are not included, may result in your bag exceeding the allowed limits.

Proper measurement ensures:

• No surprise fees at check-in.
• Smooth boarding and stowing in overhead bins.
• Better packing decisions when staying within airline size rules.

Dimensions, Linear Inches, and Volume

Dimensions

Refers to your luggage’s height, width, and depth, including all protrusions like wheels, handles, and side pockets.

Linear Inches

Linear inches are calculated by adding:
Height + Width + Depth = Linear Inches
This measurement is the industry standard for luggage size compliance.

Volume

Volume measures interior capacity (often listed in liters). While useful for packing, airlines rarely use this for luggage restrictions.

External vs. Internal Measurements

• External measurements include wheels, handles, and exterior compartments crucial for airline compliance.
• Internal measurements refer to the usable packing space inside the bag.

Tip: Manufacturer labels often list internal dimensions, which can be misleading for travel purposes. Always measure the full external size yourself.

What You Need to Measure Your Luggage

Essential Tools

To measure luggage accurately, you’ll need:

• Measuring tape (flexible, with inches or centimeters)
• Flat surface to keep the bag upright and stable
• Pen and paper or phone app to record dimensions
• Luggage scale to weigh your packed bag

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring

Avoid these frequent errors:

• Not including wheels or handles in your measurement
• Relying solely on manufacturer size listings
• Forgetting to measure expanded compartments
• Measuring an empty or compressed bag rather than when fully packed

These missteps can lead to oversized classification and added charges.

Guide to Measuring Luggage Correctly

Step 1: Measure Height, Width, and Depth

Use a measuring tape to record:

Ensure the bag is upright and fully packed when measuring.

Step 2: Calculate Linear Inches and Account for Expansion

Add height + width + depth to calculate total linear inches.
Example: 24” (H) + 14” (W) + 13” (D) = 51 linear inches

If your suitcase has expandable sections, measure it both zipped and unzipped. Some airlines measure luggage in its fully expanded state.

Conclusion

Measuring your luggage correctly is a smart way to avoid travel headaches and added fees. Use the right tools, understand airline requirements, and measure every part of your bag, including wheels and handles. By doing so, you can confidently pack for your trip and breeze through airport check-ins.

Need personalized travel tips or packing advice? Reach out for a free consultation. Safe travels!

Written by Emily Birken Updated June 11, 2025 by Albert Fang