To measure linear inches for luggage, you'll need to measure the length, width, and height of your bag using a flexible tape measure, including wheels and handles. Place your suitcase on a flat surface and measure each dimension at its longest point. Add these three measurements together to get the total linear inches – most airlines allow up to 62 linear inches for checked bags and 45-50 for carry-ons. For the most accurate results and airline-specific requirements, there's more you should know about proper measuring techniques.
TLDR
- Place luggage on a flat surface and use a measuring tape to measure length (longest side), width (side to side), and height (top to bottom).
- Include handles, wheels, and any protruding parts in your measurements as airlines consider these when checking dimensions.
- Add the three measurements together (length + width + height) to calculate the total linear inches of your luggage.
- Compare your total linear inches against airline restrictions: typically 45-50 inches for carry-ons and 62 inches for checked bags.
- Use a flexible measuring tape rather than a ruler for accurate measurements, especially around curved edges and irregular shapes.
Understanding Linear Inches and Their Importance
When you're preparing for air travel, understanding linear inches is essential for avoiding baggage headaches at the airport.
Linear inches represent the total sum of your luggage's length, width, and height, including wheels and handles. Airlines use this measurement to enforce size restrictions, typically allowing 45-50 linear inches for carry-ons and up to 62 linear inches for checked bags. For accurate measurement, you'll need to use a measuring tape to determine the exact dimensions of your luggage.
Essential Tools for Measuring Your Luggage
When measuring your luggage, you'll find that a flexible tape measure offers more accuracy and ease of use than a standard ruler, especially when dealing with curved surfaces and odd-shaped bags.
Digital measuring tools and smartphone apps can provide quick measurements, but they're not as reliable as traditional measuring tools for ensuring your luggage meets airline requirements.
Make sure to include wheels and handles in your measurements, as airlines count these in their size restrictions. To get the most accurate measurements, you'll need a flat, level surface like a hardwood floor or sturdy table, which helps prevent any wobbling or tilting that could affect your measurements.
Measuring Tape vs. Ruler
Two essential tools stand ready to help you measure your luggage accurately: the measuring tape and the ruler.
While rulers are portable and perfect for measuring smaller bags or carry-ons, measuring tapes offer superior accuracy and flexibility, especially for larger suitcases.
You'll find measuring tapes particularly useful when dealing with irregular shapes, external pockets, and wheels, while rulers work best for quick, straightforward measurements. Using proper measurement tools helps ensure your luggage meets airline size restrictions and prevents additional fees at check-in.
Digital Tools and Apps
Modern technology offers smart alternatives to traditional measuring tools through innovative apps and digital solutions.
You'll find convenient options like KAYAK's app, which uses your smartphone's camera to measure bags after floor calibration.
The AR Ruler App provides augmented reality measurements, while online linear inches calculators help you quickly sum dimensions and compare them against airline requirements.
Flat Surface Requirements
A sturdy, level surface serves as the foundation for obtaining accurate luggage measurements.
You'll want to lay your empty, closed suitcase on a flat table or floor to prevent any skewed readings.
When measuring soft-sided bags, remember to account for packed dimensions, and make sure you've got enough space around the luggage to move freely while taking measurements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Dimensions
When measuring your luggage's linear inches, you'll need to follow a systematic approach using the right tools and techniques.
Start by measuring length from top to bottom at the widest point, including wheels and handles.
Next, measure the width across the broadest part, then determine height while the bag stands upright.
Remember to include any protruding parts in your measurements.
Calculating Total Linear Inches
Once you've measured your luggage's length, width, and height in inches, simply add these three numbers together to get your total linear inches.
If any of your measurements are in different units, such as centimeters, you'll need to convert them to inches first by dividing by 2.54.
After calculating your total, compare it against your airline's specific requirements, which typically max out at 62 linear inches for checked bags, to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
Add All Three Dimensions
To calculate your luggage's total linear inches, you'll need to combine all three measurements into a single number.
Add together the length, width, and height in inches using the formula: Linear Inches = L + W + H.
For example, if your suitcase measures 30 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 20 inches high, your total linear inches would be 62.
Converting Units When Needed
Many travelers encounter luggage measurements in centimeters rather than inches, so you'll need to convert these numbers before calculating total linear inches.
To convert centimeters to inches, multiply your measurement by 2.54. You can use a calculator or conversion tool to guarantee accuracy.
Remember to verify your conversions carefully, as incorrect measurements could lead to issues at the airport or additional fees.
Check Against Airline Limits
After confirming your measurements in inches, checking them against airline restrictions will help you avoid unwanted fees or travel complications.
Most airlines allow checked bags up to 62 linear inches, while carry-on limits typically range from 45-50 linear inches. To calculate your bag's total, simply add length, width, and height.
For example, a bag measuring 30×18×14 inches equals 62 linear inches.
Common Airline Size Restrictions and Limits
While most major US airlines maintain similar baggage restrictions, you'll find that specific size limits can vary considerably between carriers. Standard checked bags shouldn't exceed 62 linear inches for most airlines, though Allegiant allows up to 80 inches. Weight limits typically cap at 50 pounds, but you'll get extra allowance in premium cabins, where many airlines permit up to 70 pounds. Additionally, adhering to Delta's carry-on size limits is crucial for hassle-free travel.
Tips for Accurate Luggage Measurements
To guarantee your luggage meets airline requirements, you'll need to take precise measurements using the correct technique.
Place your bag on a hard, flat surface and measure each dimension with a tape measure, including wheels and handles.
Don't forget to measure at the widest points, and if you're measuring soft bags, fill them first to simulate actual packing conditions.
Wrapping Up
Measuring your luggage's linear inches doesn't have to be complicated if you follow the right steps. You'll save time and avoid additional fees by measuring before you travel, ensuring your bags meet airline requirements. Remember to measure at the widest points, include all parts of your luggage (including wheels and handles), and keep a record of your measurements for future reference. When in doubt, it's better to measure twice than face issues at check-in.
