How To Measure A Suitcase: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning your first big trip, knowing how to measure a suitcase properly can save you time, stress, and unexpected fees at the airport. Airlines are becoming increasingly strict about baggage dimensions, and even a few extra inches, especially from wheels or handles, can mean the difference between a smooth check-in and a costly surprise.

Understanding how to measure your suitcase accurately ensures you meet airline requirements and helps you pack smarter. Since baggage policies vary between carriers, taking the time to measure your luggage correctly is one of the easiest ways to guarantee a hassle-free travel experience.

How To Measure A Suitcase Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to measure your suitcase accurately:

1. Place the suitcase upright on a flat surface

Start by placing your suitcase in its natural standing position, upright, on a flat, level surface like a hardwood floor or table. This ensures your measurements are accurate and not skewed by uneven flooring or carpet padding.

Tip: Avoid measuring on soft surfaces like beds or rugs, which can distort the shape and size of your suitcase.

2. Measure the height from the bottom to the top

Using a flexible measuring tape, measure from the bottom of the suitcase (including the wheels) to the top (including the handle if it doesn’t retract fully). This is your suitcase’s total height.

Important: Airlines often include wheels and handles in their size restrictions, so don’t skip them!

3. Measure the width from side to side at the widest point

Next, measure the width of your suitcase from one side to the other. Be sure to include any protruding parts like side handles, latches, or built-in locks.

Why it matters: Some suitcases taper at the top or bottom, so always measure at the widest point to avoid underestimating.

4. Measure the depth from front to back

Now measure the depth of your suitcase from the front to the back. Include any external pockets, zippers, or expansion features that add bulk.

Softside luggage tip: If your suitcase has an expandable section, measure it fully expanded to ensure it still meets airline requirements when packed.

5. Add height + width + depth for total linear dimensions

Once you have all three measurements, add them together to get the total linear dimensions of your suitcase. Many airlines use this number to determine if your checked luggage meets their size limits.

Example: If your suitcase is 28" high, 18" wide, and 12" deep, the total linear dimensions are 58".

6. Always include wheels and handles in your measurements

This point is worth repeating: wheels and handles count. Many travelers overlook these parts, but airlines don’t. Including them ensures your suitcase won’t be flagged as oversized.

7. Use a flexible measuring tape for accuracy

A soft, flexible measuring tape, like the kind used in sewing, is ideal for measuring suitcases. It wraps easily around curved or padded surfaces and gives more accurate results than a rigid ruler or yardstick.

Bonus tip: If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use a piece of string and then measure the string with a ruler.

8. Compare your measurements to your airline’s baggage size limits

Once you’ve measured your suitcase, check your airline’s website or printed guidelines to see if your bag meets their carry-on or checked luggage requirements. Each airline has its own rules, and they can vary significantly. 

Pro tip: Some airlines also have weight limits, so be sure to weigh your suitcase after packing.

FAQs About Measuring Suitcases

How can I tell if my suitcase is carry-on size?

Most airlines define carry-on luggage as no larger than 22" x 14" x 9", including wheels and handles. However, this can vary slightly depending on the airline.

Always check your airline’s specific carry-on size limits before traveling. If your suitcase exceeds these dimensions, it may need to be checked.

Can I use a ruler to measure my suitcase?

Yes, but a flexible measuring tape is better. A ruler can work for straight sections, but it’s harder to get accurate measurements around curved edges, padded surfaces, or protruding parts.

If you only have a ruler, measure each section carefully and add the parts together.

Do softside and hardside suitcases measure the same way?

Yes, both types of suitcases should be measured the same way, always including wheels and handles. However, softside luggage can expand when packed, so it’s best to measure it when it’s full to get the most accurate dimensions.

Softside tip: Check if your suitcase has an expansion zipper and measure with it fully extended.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to measure a suitcase correctly is a simple but essential travel skill. It helps you avoid extra fees, ensures compliance with airline policies, and gives you peace of mind before your trip. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, taking a few minutes to measure your luggage can make all the difference.

So grab that measuring tape, follow the steps above, and travel with confidence!