For example, if your bag is 24 inches tall, 20 inches long and 18 inches wide, its total linear length is 62 inches.
People Also Ask
Most airlines seem to have a 62 linear limit (L x W x D) on checked luggage before incurring additional fees. Suitcases seem to be sold in 20, 24, and 28 sizes. The 28 bag comes the closest to the 62 limit but almost every 28 bag I've looked at had linear measurements of between 64-65.
Checked LuggageMost airlines will allow you to check one bag and have one carry-on bag. There is normally a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds per checked bag as well as a size restriction. The most common maximum size bag allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. A common size bag for checking through is: 27 x 21 x 14.
Linear inches is a measurement used by airlines to figure out the size of checked luggage. It's calculated by adding together the outside length, width, and height of a suitcase or bag. For example, if your bag measures 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 20 inches high, its linear inches would be 62 (24+18+20=62).
If your checked bag is over 62 linear inches (157 cm), it will be marked as oversized. This is a rule set by airline regulators to protect baggage handlers from any potential injuries.
A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you're looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.
Most airlines require that your bag be 62 linear inches or less. Therefore, your bag's length, width and height cannot exceed 62 inches. This measurement includes the wheels and the handle of your luggage.
Most domestic airlines anyway have a linear size limit for checked baggage of 62 inches overall, meaning length+width+height. So one length of 32 inches won't put you over the limit if the width and depth keep you under 62 inches total.
A lot of manufacturers advertise their 28-32 inch suitcases as checked luggage. However, technically, that's false advertising. The truth is that a large portion of 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32-inch suitcases are over the size limits for checked bags, so they can't be used as checked bags.
30-inch luggage is one of the largest options, so it's going to weigh more than a 26-inch one or your carry-on. Most airlines have a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds per checked bag. This limit does not take into account size, so 30-inch luggage needs to meet the same requirements as 26-inch luggage.
Don't forget to include the wheels, handles, and anything else that's “sticking out”. You should always measure each dimension at the widest point, not the narrowest. For example, the Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch checked suitcase has the total overall dimensions of 31 (height) x 20 (width) x 12.75 (depth) inches.
For example, the Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch checked suitcase has the total overall dimensions of 31 (height) x 20 (width) x 12.75 (depth) inches. To get linear inches, we need to add up 31 + 20 + 12.75, which equals 63.75 linear inches.
Therefore, when it comes to a 28-inch suitcase, if you don't exceed the maximum weight limit for checked luggage then you should be able to check it in at most airports. However, if your bag exceeds the size or weight limits then you may be subject to additional charges from the airline.
Medium suitcase – 24 inch, Large suitcase – 27 inch, Extra large suitcase – 32 inch, Please note that a hard case will generally be smaller in capacity to a soft sided case of the same size due to it not being able to expand or bulge out with packing.
Because suitcases need to fit into certain spaces (overhead compartments, under the seats, etc.), they're always measured at the widest end of each dimension. This usually includes spinner wheels, side and top handles, and anything else that's “sticking out” of the main frame.
Because softshell luggage has more give, a hard shell suitcase can be better at protecting fragile contents, assuming you cushion it well inside. On the other hand, that rigid exterior makes hardshell bags unable to be compressed to squeeze into tight spaces like softsided bags are more apt to allow.
Large Suitcase SizeThe large suitcase measures 74 cm or 27 inches in height and has a capacity of up to 117 litres. These suitcases are versatile, spacious and allow you to have a series of outfits with you. The large size gives you the freedom to pack whatever you need for your travels which last longer than 1 week.
You should check with your airline first, but most domestic airlines permit a carry-on piece of luggage that is 45 linear (total) inches. A common sized bag for carry-on luggage is 22x 14x 9. Most airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds.