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How to Measure Carry-On Luggage Correctly

Measure your luggage once, correctly, before an airport sizer does it for you.

Measure your bag when it is packed, not empty. Start at the tallest point, widest point, and deepest point, including wheels, handles, feet, side pockets, and straps if they extend beyond the bag shell.

Use a flat wall, a tape measure, and a level surface. Write down height, width, and depth in centimetres, then use the Bag Fit Checker to compare them with your airline's published rules. If your bag has a soft front pocket, measure it when it is full.

When a bag is very close to the limit, leave a little margin. A soft bag can bulge and an airport sizer is less forgiving than a product listing measurement.

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Frequently asked questions

Do wheels count as carry-on dimensions?

Usually yes. Many airlines explicitly say wheels and handles are included.

Should I measure in inches or centimetres?

Use the airline's published unit where possible. The Bag Fit Checker converts either input for you.