Measuring Checked Bags For Airline Travel

how to measure 62 inch checed bag for airline travel

Measuring your luggage before flying is important to avoid hefty fines at the airport. Most airlines have a maximum limit of 62 linear inches for checked bags, which means the total length, width and depth of your bag must be 62 inches or less. However, some airlines have different size restrictions, so it's important to check the specific rules of the airline you're flying with.

When measuring your luggage, include all protruding parts such as handles, tags and wheels. You don't need to include the full length of a retractable handle. It's also a good idea to weigh your luggage, as there are usually weight restrictions in addition to size restrictions.

Characteristics Values
Linear dimensions 62 inches (158 cm)
Weight allowance 44-88 pounds (20-40 kg)
Weight allowance (domestic flights) 50 pounds
Weight allowance (international flights) Depends on the airline
Number of bags Depends on the airline
Excess charges $30-$145

quartzmountain

How to measure the dimensions of a suitcase

Measuring your suitcase is a simple process, but it's important to do it correctly to avoid any nasty surprises at the airport. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to measure the dimensions of a suitcase:

Step 1: Check Airline Restrictions

Different airlines have different size restrictions for checked and carry-on baggage. Some airlines provide size restrictions in linear dimensions (the sum of the length, width, and height), while others provide specific size restrictions for each dimension of the suitcase. Make sure to check the restrictions for your particular airline and flight route.

Step 2: Check Luggage Manufacturer Guidelines

Even if your suitcase is marketed as a carry-on or check-in size, it's a good idea to double-check the manufacturer's specifications. Measure your suitcase at home to ensure it complies with the airline's size restrictions.

Step 3: Pack Your Suitcase

Before measuring, make sure to pack your suitcase with everything you plan to bring. The dimensions of your suitcase can change once it's packed, especially if you have a soft-shell suitcase.

Step 4: Measure Your Suitcase

Now it's time to break out the measuring tape! Place your suitcase on a flat surface and measure the following:

  • Height: Place the suitcase upright and measure from the bottom of the wheels to the top of the handle.
  • Depth: Measure from the back of the suitcase (where your clothes rest) to the front (usually where the zip and slip pockets are).
  • Width: Situate the suitcase so you're facing it straight on, and measure across the front of the bag, including any side handles.

Step 5: Weigh Your Suitcase

In addition to size restrictions, airlines also have weight limits for checked and carry-on baggage. Use a digital luggage scale or a standard bathroom scale to weigh your suitcase and ensure it's within the airline's weight restrictions.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your suitcase meets the requirements for your flight and avoid any unexpected fees or hassles at the airport.

quartzmountain

How do they measure luggage at the airport?

Airlines have size and weight restrictions for luggage to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring baggage handlers. Before heading to the airport, it's important to check your airline's luggage size guide to stay within the limits.

For carry-on luggage, some airlines have measuring bins at the airport. These are metal boxes sized to the maximum allowed dimensions, and you can slide your bag into them to see if it fits. If your bag doesn't fit, you'll be asked to check it in and may be charged additional fees.

Checked luggage is usually measured with a tape measure at the check-in desks, but only if your bag looks exceptionally large. When measuring, the weight of the bag is automatically taken, and the check-in steward will use a measuring tape if your bag looks like it might be too big. If your bag is found to be oversized or overweight, you will be charged a fee.

It's worth noting that each airline has slightly different requirements for checked and carry-on baggage, and these requirements can also vary depending on whether you are a frequent flyer with a particular airline or your flight is domestic or international. Therefore, it's essential to check the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying with.

To measure your luggage correctly, you should include the wheels, handles, and anything else that's "sticking out" in the measurements. Place your bag against a wall and use a pencil to mark the top and bottom. Then, use a tape measure to find the distance between the two points, giving you the height of your bag, including the wheels.

When measuring the width and depth of your bag, you'll need a straight wall, a book, a pencil, and a tape measure. Place your bag next to the wall and put the book against one side, ensuring it aligns with the widest part of the bag. Mark where the book touches the wall on both sides with a pencil, then use the tape measure to find the distance between the two points. This technique will give you an accurate reading for the width or depth of your bag.

quartzmountain

Do wheels count when measuring luggage?

When it comes to measuring luggage for air travel, it's important to know that the way luggage manufacturers measure and the way airlines measure may differ. Luggage manufacturers often don't include protruding handles and wheels in their measurements, whereas airlines do. This means that a suitcase marketed as "carry-on size" may technically be oversized for some airlines due to the addition of the wheels and handles.

When measuring a checked bag, it is recommended to include the wheels in your measurements. To do this, place the suitcase against a wall and use a pencil to mark the highest point. Then, measure the distance from the mark to the floor to get the height of your suitcase, including the wheels.

Most airlines will include wheels and handles in their measurements, so it is generally best to measure your luggage at home, including these elements, to ensure it complies with the airline's size restrictions. This is especially important as exceeding the size or weight limit can result in hefty additional fees.

It is worth noting that there is no universal set of rules for checked luggage allowances, and policies can differ between airlines, routes, and cabins. Therefore, it is always a good idea to review the specific requirements of the airline you are travelling with to avoid any unexpected charges.

quartzmountain

How to measure linear inches of luggage

When measuring the linear inches of luggage, it's important to first understand the specific requirements of the airline you're flying with. Each airline has different size and weight restrictions for carry-on and checked baggage. This information can usually be found on the airline's website, and it's important to check before your trip to avoid unexpected costs.

Once you know the size requirements, you can start measuring your luggage. Linear inches refer to the total sum of the height, width, and depth of your luggage. To get an accurate measurement, use a tape measure and include any handles or wheels that are sticking out. Place your bag against a wall and use a pencil to mark the top and bottom of the bag. Then, measure the distance between the two marks to get the height, ensuring that you include the wheels. Next, measure the width of your bag from one side to the other, again including any handles. Finally, measure the depth of your bag from the back to the front, taking into account any zipper compartments that might bulge out.

After you have the three measurements, simply add them together to get the total linear inches of your luggage. For example, if your luggage measures 28 inches in height, 20 inches in width, and 12 inches in depth, the total linear inches would be 60 (28 + 20 + 12 = 60).

It's important to note that these measurements should be taken with your luggage fully packed, as the dimensions can change depending on how much you pack. Additionally, it's a good idea to weigh your luggage to ensure it meets the weight requirements of the airline. By taking these measurements and weighing your luggage beforehand, you can avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smoother travel experience.

quartzmountain

How to avoid extra fees

To avoid extra fees when checking in a 62-inch bag, it's important to be aware of the airline's specific baggage policies. Here are some strategies to help you avoid those pesky extra fees:

  • Fly with certain airlines: Some airlines, like Southwest, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Air India, offer free checked baggage. However, they may have restrictions on luggage size and weight, so always check their policies before assuming.
  • Travel with fewer bags: If you're travelling with family or friends, consider consolidating your luggage. For example, a family of four might be able to fit everything into two bags instead of four, reducing the checked-bag fees by half.
  • Travel light: The fool-proof way to avoid checked-bag fees is to only bring a carry-on bag and a personal item. Duffel bags or soft luggage might be easier to squeeze into overhead compartments.
  • Upgrade your fare: Although it may seem counterintuitive, upgrading to a higher-tier ticket might include a baggage allowance, and you'll get additional benefits like seat selection and flight changes. Sometimes, the total price might be the same or even cheaper than a lower-cost fare with added baggage fees.
  • Declare your bag early: Many airlines charge lower fees for checked bags if you add them during the initial booking process. Adding bags at the airport or gate can be significantly more expensive.
  • Weigh your bag in advance: Buy a luggage scale to weigh your suitcase before you leave for the airport. This will help you avoid surprise fees for exceeding weight limits.
  • Use the right credit card: Some credit cards, especially those affiliated with airlines, offer free checked bags as a perk. For example, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card provides a free first checked bag for up to nine people on the same reservation.
  • Get elite status: If you're a frequent flyer, consider joining an airline's frequent flyer program. Members with elite status often get perks like free checked bags. For instance, United MileagePlus Premier members can get baggage fees waived for one to three checked bags.
  • Check your bag at the gate: If you don't need to check your bag and are just looking for a more convenient flight experience, you can wait to check your small rolling bag at the gate. Sometimes, airline employees will offer free gate bag checks to make room for everyone's carry-on luggage.
Travel Tech: Laptop or Tablet?

You may want to see also

Frequently asked questions

Linear inches refer to the total length, width, and height of a bag. Measure each dimension separately and add them up to calculate the linear inches of each piece of luggage.

Use a tape measure to determine the width, length, and height of your suitcase. Always measure from the widest point of each dimension, and include the wheels, handles, and tags.

No, there's no need to factor in the full length of a retractable handle as you can slide it back in at the check-in counter.

Yes, wheels and handles count for airline size restrictions, so be sure to include them in your measurements.

If an airline discovers your luggage exceeds its size limits, an agent will likely give you a sizeable oversized baggage fee. In some situations, they may even refuse to transport your luggage at all.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment