Step 1: Understand Airline Size Restrictions
Before measuring your luggage, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the size restrictions imposed by airlines. Different airlines have varying limits on the dimensions of carry-on and checked baggage. Make sure to check the specific requirements for the airline you will be traveling with to avoid any issues at the airport.
Example:
United Airlines allows carry-on bags with a maximum size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches for domestic flights.
Tip:
When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose a smaller suitcase to ensure compliance with airline regulations.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Tools
Before measuring your luggage, gather the tools you will need, including a measuring tape or ruler. Make sure the measuring tool is reliable and can provide accurate measurements.
Benefits:
- Accurate measurements ensure your luggage meets airline requirements.
- Having the right tools saves time and prevents errors in measurement.
Step 3: Measure Length, Width, and Height
To measure the size of your luggage accurately, follow these steps:
- Length: Measure the longest side of the suitcase from one end to the other.
- Width: Measure the suitcase from side to side, perpendicular to the length measurement.
- Height: Measure the height of the suitcase from top to bottom.
Example:
If your suitcase is 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high, the dimensions would be 24 x 16 x 10 inches.
Tip:
For irregularly shaped luggage, measure the widest points to ensure accurate dimensions.
Step 4: Include Wheels and Handles
When measuring your luggage, don’t forget to account for any protruding parts such as wheels and handles. Include these elements in your measurements to avoid any discrepancies with airline guidelines.
Benefits:
- Accurate measurements prevent issues during baggage checks at the airport.
- Including wheels and handles ensures compliance with airline size restrictions.
Step 5: Check Weight Limits
In addition to size restrictions, airlines also impose weight limits on baggage. Make sure to weigh your luggage using a scale to ensure it meets the airline’s requirements. Exceeding weight limits may result in additional fees or restrictions.
Example:
Delta Airlines has a checked baggage weight limit of 50 pounds for economy class passengers.
Tip:
To avoid excess weight charges, pack strategically and remove any unnecessary items from your luggage.
Step 6: Verify Compliance
After measuring your luggage and weighing it, double-check to ensure it meets both the size and weight restrictions set by the airline. Make any necessary adjustments to avoid any issues when checking in your baggage.
Benefits:
- Compliance with airline regulations prevents delays and extra fees at the airport.
- Verification of measurements ensures a smooth travel experience without any surprises.
FAQs for How To Measure Luggage Size
How do I measure the length of my luggage?
To measure the length of your luggage, use a tape measure and measure from one end of the luggage to the other end in a straight line.
How do I measure the width of my luggage?
To measure the width of your luggage, use a tape measure and measure from one side of the luggage to the other side in a straight line.
How do I measure the height of my luggage?
To measure the height of your luggage, use a tape measure and measure from the bottom of the luggage to the top in a straight line.
How do I measure the overall size of my luggage?
To measure the overall size of your luggage, add the length, width, and height measurements together.
