Buzz
If you're flying somewhere, you’ll likely need to bring some luggage. You’ll have to measure and weigh your luggage accurately because airlines set specific size and weight requirements for carry-ons and checked bags. Start by understanding the details when purchasing a new bag. Then, you'll perform the most common measurements, including the total three dimensions, weight, height, depth, and width. By measuring your luggage ahead of time, you can avoid stress at the airport.
Steps
Select the Right Luggage
Check the airline’s baggage requirements. Each airline has slightly different rules for checked and carry-on luggage. You can usually find this information on their website, often in the "FAQ" section.
- Remember, the airline’s website will have the most up-to-date information.
Ensure the bag’s expansion is within the size requirements. Some bags have small zippers along the edges that don’t open up a new compartment, but they do allow your bag to expand. If you think you'll need to use this extension, make sure to measure your bag both when it is fully zipped and when it is expanded.
Double-check the list of retailers provided on their website. Many luggage retailers will advertise that their bags "comply with carry-on requirements." They will also provide measurements that seem to meet most airlines' carry-on size restrictions. However, it's always best to measure your luggage yourself before packing and heading to the airport. Different airlines have different rules, and retailers don’t always have the most accurate measurements.
Measure your luggage after packing it. Your bag may meet the airline's size requirements when empty, but it could change size once packed. Be sure to pack everything you'll need to bring, and then measure your bag again.
Compare carry-on and checked luggage size requirements. Most airlines allow you to bring larger bags if you check them in. Be sure you know whether you're bringing a carry-on or checked luggage and understand the size requirements for the type of luggage you’re choosing.
- Most airlines have strict weight limits for checked luggage. Be sure to weigh your bag after it's fully packed to ensure the size is within the acceptable range.
Measure the Dimensions
Measure the total three-dimensional size of the luggage. Since luggage comes in various shapes and sizes, some airlines only require the overall dimensions of the luggage, either in inches or centimeters. Measure the length, height, and depth of the luggage, including the handle and wheels. Add these three measurements together to get the total three-dimensional size, in either centimeters or inches.
Measure the height from the wheels to the top of the handle. Some retailers list height as the “vertical” measurement. To find the height of your luggage, measure from the bottom of the wheels (if your luggage has wheels) to the top of the handle.
Measure from the back of the suitcase to the front to determine the depth. Depth refers to how deep the suitcase is. To find the depth, measure from the back of the suitcase (where you pack your clothes) to the front (where there are usually additional zipper pockets and compartments).
Measure across the sides to find the width. To measure the width of the luggage, place it directly in front of you. Then, measure across the front face of the luggage. Make sure to include the handle on the edges when measuring.
Weigh your luggage. Each airline has weight limits for both carry-on and checked luggage. Don’t forget to account for the weight of the empty bag itself. If you have a scale at home, weigh the luggage after it’s packed to avoid unnecessary fees or having to discard items at the airport.
