A Comprehensive Guide on How to Measure Your Luggage
Measuring luggage is essential to ensure that your bags will fit within the size and weight restrictions of your chosen airline. By taking simple measurements and following a few steps, you can avoid the hassle and expenses of having to check or pay for oversized bags.
What You’ll Need
To measure your luggage, you’ll need a tape measure or yardstick, a book or clipboard for accuracy, and a flat, hard floor surface next to a wall. If you want to weigh your bags, a bathroom scale or a luggage scale will come in handy.
How to Find Airline Size Restrictions
First, Google the luggage size restrictions for your chosen airline. They typically have specific requirements for personal items, carry-on bags, and checked bags. Personal item limits are commonly around 18″ x 14″ x 8″, whereas carry-on limits are usually 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or 21.5″ x 15.5″ x 9″ for international travel. Checked bags are measured in linear inches, with most airlines allowing up to 62 inches.
Measuring the Height, Width, and Depth
Start by fully packing your suitcase to its intended capacity. This ensures that you measure the bag’s actual size accurately. Position the suitcase upright with its wheels on a hard floor near a wall. Use a book or clipboard to level the highest point of the bag. Take measurements for the height, width, and depth and compare them to the airline’s restrictions.
Calculating Linear Inches for Checked Bags
If the airline uses linear inches for checked bags, simply add the height, width, and depth measurements together to determine if your bag falls within the allowed limit. For example, a bag measuring 24 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 10 inches deep would have a total of 52 linear inches.
Weighing Your Luggage
Knowing the weight restrictions is crucial to avoid additional fees or having your bags checked. Look up the weight limits of your airline, and use a luggage scale or a bathroom scale to measure the weight of your fully packed bag. If your bag won’t fit on the scale, stand on it both with and without the bag to calculate the weight difference.
What to Do If Your Bag Is Too Big or Heavy
If your carry-on bag is slightly oversized, try to compress it or check it in at the gate if allowed. For substantial size discrepancies or for checked bags, consider redistributing the weight among other luggage or personal items to meet the requirements. Be aware that oversize and overweight bags may incur additional fees.
Final Tips
When measuring luggage, focus on the actual size and numbers rather than the terminology used by different airlines. Prioritize accuracy by packing the bag fully, using a level surface, and measuring all dimensions carefully. Also, don’t forget to double-check both the size and weight restrictions for your specific airline to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
