When it comes to packing for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is the size of your luggage. If your luggage is too small, you won’t be able to fit everything you need. If it’s too large, you’ll end up paying extra baggage fees. That’s why it’s important to know how to measure luggage linear inches correctly. To avoid this problem, you must also calculate the linear inches of your luggage before you go to the airport. Linear inches are the sum of the length, width, and height of your luggage. Most airlines have a maximum linear inches allowance for checked and carry-on luggage. If your luggage exceeds the maximum linear inches allowance, you may have to pay an oversize baggage fee.
To measure luggage linear inches, you’ll need a measuring tape. Place the luggage on a flat surface. Measure the length of the luggage from the longest point on the top to the longest point on the bottom. Then, measure the width of the luggage from the widest point on the left side to the widest point on the right side. Finally, measure the height of the luggage from the highest point on the top to the lowest point on the bottom. Add the length, width, and height measurements together to get the total linear inches of your luggage.
Once you know the linear inches of your luggage, you can compare it to the maximum linear inches allowance for your airline. If your luggage is within the allowance, you’re good to go. If your luggage exceeds the allowance, you may have to pay an oversize baggage fee. To avoid paying an oversize baggage fee, you can either repack your luggage to reduce the size or choose a different piece of luggage that is within the airline’s allowance. Measuring luggage linear inches is a quick and easy way to make sure that your luggage meets the airline’s requirements.
Determine the Three Dimensions
Calculating the linear inches of your luggage requires determining its three dimensions: length, width, and height. Follow these steps:
Length
Measure the length of your luggage at its longest point, from the front edge to the back edge. Ensure the tape measure is straight and extends parallel to the luggage’s base. Record the measurement in inches.
Width
Determine the width by measuring the distance across the luggage at its widest point, perpendicular to the length. Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor and avoid including any protrusions, such as handles or wheels.
Height
Measure the height of your luggage by placing the tape measure at the bottom and extending it vertically to the highest point. Remember to include any wheels or feet that add to the overall height. Record the measurement in inches.
Use a Measuring Tape
A measuring tape is the most accurate and reliable tool for measuring luggage’s linear inches. follow these steps to use a measuring tape to measure luggage:
1. Lay the Luggage Flat:
Place the luggage flat on a smooth, even surface, such as a table or floor.
2. Locate the Longest Dimensions:
Start by measuring the longest dimensions of the luggage in three directions:
- Length: Measure the longest horizontal side from one end to the other.
- Width: Measure the longest vertical side from top to bottom.
- Depth: Measure the thickness of the luggage from front to back.
3. Add the Measurements:
Once you have the three measurements, add them together. This total represents the linear inches of the luggage.
For example, if the length is 24 inches, the width is 15 inches, and the depth is 9 inches, the linear inches would be 24 + 15 + 9 = 48 inches.
4. Compare to Airline Regulations:
Compare the linear inches measurement to the airline’s baggage restrictions to determine if the luggage is acceptable.
Tip: For soft-sided luggage, it is recommended to measure the luggage while it is slightly overstuffed to account for movement and compression during travel.
Measure the Length
To measure the length of your luggage, place the long edge of the tape measure at the farthest point from the handle or wheels and extend it to the opposite edge of the luggage. Make sure the tape measure is held straight and taut, and avoid measuring over any curves or indentations in the exterior. Note the measurement in inches and record it accurately.
Measure the Width
For the width measurement, place the tape measure along the shorter end of the luggage, perpendicular to the length measurement. Extend the tape measure from one side of the luggage to the other, ensuring it remains parallel to the bottom and top edges. Read and record the measurement in inches accurately.
Measure the Height
The height measurement is taken from the bottom of the luggage to the highest point, including any handles, wheels, or protrusions. This measurement should not include any extendable handles or straps. Place the tape measure vertically at the lowest point of the luggage and extend it upwards to the highest point. Read and record the measurement in inches accurately.
| Dimension | Measurement in Inches |
|---|---|
| Length | [Length Measurement] |
| Width | [Width Measurement] |
| Height | [Height Measurement] |
Measure the Width
To measure the width of your luggage, place it in a standing position and measure from the widest point of one side to the widest point of the other. This measurement should include any wheels or handles that protrude from the sides of the luggage.
Measure the Width (Detailed Steps)
- Stand the luggage upright on a flat surface.
- Locate the widest point on one side of the luggage (usually the middle).
- Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the horizontal distance from the widest point on one side to the widest point on the other.
- Repeat this measurement for any additional sides of the luggage that may have protruding wheels or handles.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for measuring the width of your luggage:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Stand the luggage upright. |
| 2 | Locate the widest point on one side. |
| 3 | Measure the horizontal distance to the widest point on the other side. |
| 4 | Repeat for any additional protruding sides. |
Measure the Height
The height of your luggage is measured from the top of the bag to the base. To measure the height, stand the bag upright on a flat surface.
1. Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the distance from the top of the bag to the bottom. Keep the measuring tape or ruler straight and perpendicular to the ground.
2. Make sure to include the wheels and handles in your measurement. If the bag has retractable handles, extend them to their full length.
3. If the bag has multiple compartments, measure the height of each compartment separately and add the measurements together.
4. Round your measurement up to the nearest inch. For example, if you measure 23.5 inches, round it up to 24 inches.
5. Compare your measurement to the height restrictions of your airline or travel provider. Most airlines have a height limit of 55 inches for checked bags and 22 inches for carry-on bags. However, there may be some exceptions, so it is always best to check with your airline before traveling.
Add All the Measurements
Once you’ve measured the length, width, and height of your luggage, it’s time to add them all together. This will give you the total linear inches of your luggage.
To do this, simply add the length, width, and height together.
For example, if your luggage is 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high, the total linear inches would be 50 inches.
Once you know the total linear inches of your luggage, it’s time to compare it to the airline’s carry-on baggage restrictions.
Calculating Linear Inches From Centimeters
If your luggage is measured in centimeters, you’ll need to convert the measurements to inches before you can add them together.
To do this, divide the measurements in centimeters by 2.54.
For example, if your luggage is 60 centimeters long, 40 centimeters wide, and 25 centimeters high, the total linear inches would be:
| Measurement | Centimeters | Inches |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 60 | 23.62 |
| Width | 40 | 15.75 |
| Height | 25 | 9.84 |
| Total | 49.21 |
Once you have the measurements in inches, you can add them together to get the total linear inches.
Convert to Inches
To convert feet and inches into inches, simply multiply the feet by 12 and add the number of inches. For example, if you have a suitcase that is 2 feet and 6 inches, you would multiply 2 by 12 and add 6, which gives you 30 inches.
Using a Ruler or Tape Measure
The most precise way to measure the linear inches of your luggage is to use a ruler or tape measure. Lay the ruler or tape measure along the length of the suitcase. Be sure to include the wheels and handles in your measurement. The total number of inches that the ruler or tape measure spans is the linear inches of your luggage.
Using a Measuring Wheel
If you don’t have a ruler or tape measure, you can use a measuring wheel to measure the linear inches of your luggage. Place the measuring wheel at one end of the suitcase and roll it along the length of the suitcase. The measuring wheel will display the total number of inches that it has rolled.
Using a Online Calculator
There are also a number of online calculators that can help you to convert feet and inches into inches. Simply enter the length of your suitcase in feet and inches, and the calculator will convert it into inches for you.
Table of Conversion Factors
| Units | Conversion Factor |
|---|---|
| Feet to Inches | 12 |
| Inches to Feet | 1 / 12 |
Exclude Wheels and Handles
The Importance of Excluding Wheels and Handles
When measuring luggage linear inches, it’s crucial to exclude wheels and handles from the measurements. These components add extra height and width to the luggage, which can result in inaccurate measurements. Moreover, airlines have specific size restrictions that apply to the actual body of the luggage, excluding wheels and handles.
How to Exclude Wheels and Handles
Step 1: Orient the Luggage Correctly
Place the luggage upright on a flat surface, with the wheels and handles fully extended.
Step 2: Determine the Maximum Height
Measure the vertical distance from the base of the luggage to the highest point of the main compartment, excluding any wheels or handles. Use a measuring tape or ruler for precision.
Step 3: Determine the Maximum Width
Measure the horizontal distance across the widest part of the luggage, again excluding wheels and handles.
Step 4: Determine the Maximum Depth
Measure the horizontal distance from the front of the luggage to the back, excluding any protrusions from wheels or handles.
Step 5: Add Up the Measurements
Sum the height, width, and depth measurements obtained in steps 2, 3, and 4. This total represents the linear inches of the luggage, excluding wheels and handles.
Linear Inches Calculation Example
| Measurement | Value (inches) |
|---|---|
| Height | 22 |
| Width | 14 |
| Depth | 9 |
| Total Linear Inches | 45 |
Check Airline Regulations
Your luggage’s linear inches will vary depending on the airline you’re flying with, so it’s important to check their specific regulations before packing. Some airlines have different carry-on and checked baggage size restrictions, so be sure to check both.
Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that is 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches deep.
- Checked baggage is typically allowed to be larger, but some airlines have size restrictions of 62 linear inches (length + width + height).
- If your luggage exceeds the size limits, you may be charged an overweight or oversized baggage fee.
Here’s a table with the linear inches for the luggage for various airlines:
| Airline | Carry-on Luggage | Checked Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | 45 linear inches | 62 linear inches |
| United Airlines | 45 linear inches | 62 linear inches |
| Southwest Airlines | 62 linear inches | 80 linear inches |
| American Airlines | 45 linear inches | 62 linear inches |
| JetBlue Airways | 41 linear inches | 62 linear inches |
It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. Always check with your specific airline for their specific regulations.
Pack Efficiently
Luggage restrictions can vary slightly depending on the airline, so be sure to check with your airline before packing. In general, however, the following tips will help you pack efficiently and avoid any potential problems at the airport.
10. Roll Your Clothes
Rolling your clothes rather than folding them can help you save space in your luggage. To roll your clothes, spread them out flat and smooth out any wrinkles. Then, starting from one corner, roll the clothes tightly towards the opposite corner. Continue rolling until the clothes are completely rolled up. Once the clothes are rolled up, you can secure them with a rubber band or piece of string.
Benefits of Rolling Clothes
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Saves space | Rolled clothes take up less space than folded clothes, so you can pack more into your luggage. |
| Reduces wrinkles | Rolling your clothes can help to minimize wrinkles, so you can arrive at your destination looking sharp. |
| Protects clothes from damage | Rolling your clothes can help to protect them from damage, such as tears or stains. |
How to Measure Luggage Linear Inches
When it comes to traveling, knowing how to measure luggage linear inches is essential for ensuring that your bags will meet the size requirements of your airline. Linear inches are calculated by adding the height, width, and depth of your luggage. To measure linear inches, follow these steps:
- Stand your luggage upright on a flat surface.
- Measure the height of the luggage from the base to the highest point, including any wheels or handles.
- Measure the width of the luggage at its widest point.
- Measure the depth of the luggage from the front to the back.
- Add the height, width, and depth measurements together to get the total linear inches.
For example, if your luggage measures 24 inches high, 16 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, the linear inches would be 24 + 16 + 12 = 52 linear inches.
It is important to note that some airlines may have specific size restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage. Be sure to check with your airline before you travel to ensure that your luggage meets the requirements.
People Also Ask
How do I measure luggage for international flights?
The size restrictions for international flights may vary depending on the airline and the destination. However, most international airlines have a linear inch limit of 62 inches for checked luggage and 45 inches for carry-on luggage.
Can I bring a backpack as carry-on luggage?
Yes, most airlines allow backpacks as carry-on luggage as long as they meet the size requirements. Be sure to check with your airline to confirm the specific size restrictions.
What is the difference between linear inches and volume?
Linear inches measure the external dimensions of your luggage, while volume measures the interior capacity of your luggage. Volume is measured in cubic inches or liters.
