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How to Measure a Suitcase

There’s enough to think about before a trip: flights, accommodation, how to pack, what to wear to the airport. But there’s one thing many travellers overlook - making sure your luggage is the right size. If you’ve ever had to repack your bag at the airport or pay an unexpected excess luggage fee, you’ll know how stressful it can be. But, here’s the good part: measuring a suitcase is quick and easy.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to measure your luggage properly and how to avoid common mistakes. Plus, we’ll show you how to choose the right suitcase size at Strand from popular brands such as Nere and Antler.

Why Accurate Luggage Measurement Matters

Getting your suitcase size right can save you time, money, and stress at the airport. Here are all the reasons why you should stretch out your measuring tape and measure your suitcase well before you fly.

1. Avoid Excess Baggage Fees

Exceeding your airline’s luggage size limit - even by a few centimetres - can result in hefty charges at the airport. Most carriers are strict about dimensions and will charge your extra if your bag doesn’t comply.

2. Helps you stay within Airline Guidelines

Every airline, be it an Australian carrier like Jetstar or Qantas or an international airline, has different requirements. The variations also depend on the type of flight (domestic or international) and the type of fare you’ve purchased. If you know your suitcase size, you can compare it directly with the airline’s website and avoid surprises at the airport.

3. Pick the Right Bag for the Right Trip

For a weekend getaway, stick to a cabin-sized bag where possible. If you're heading overseas for a few weeks, you’ll need a spacious check-in suitcase. Measuring helps you decide if your current bag fits the travel plan or it's time to upgrade.

Carry-On vs Checked Luggage Size in Australia

Now, since you know how important it is to have the right suitcase size, here is a quick overview of what different luggage weight and size limits are at most Australian airports.

Carry-On Luggage
  • Dimensions: 56cm (H) x 36cm (W) x 23cm (D); linear measurement (H+W+D) of 114 cm
  • Weight limit: Usually 7 kg
Checked Luggage
  • Linear measurement: 76 cm (H) x 49 cm (W) x 33 cm (D) combined; linear measurement (H+W+D) of 158cm
  • Weight: Ranges from 20kg to 32kg, depending on your fare class and airline

It’s always smart to double-check with your airline, especially for international flights or budget fares.

Looking for luggage sets that fit these rules? Brands like Nere and Antler offer sleek carry-ons that meet most Australian domestic airline size limits, while American Tourister has durable check-in bags perfect for longer trips.

What You’ll Need to Measure a Suitcase

Before you start, gather these essentials:

  • A soft measuring tape

  • Luggage scale

  • Your phone or a notebook and pen

Measuring your luggage is quick and easy, saving you the stress later on.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Suitcase

1. Measure the Exterior Dimensions

Start with the bag standing upright on a flat surface. Then, measure the following metrics:

  • Height: From the ground to the top of the highest point (including handles if they don’t fully retract)

  • Width: Across the front from one side to the other

  • Depth: From the front of the bag to the back, including pockets or bulges

Make sure to include wheels, top handles and side grips in your measurements, as the airlines do.

2. Measure the Interior Packing Space

This is more for your own packing needs rather than airline rules. Open your suitcase and measure the actual usable space. This includes:

  • Length, width and depth inside the main compartment

  • Exclude dividers and pouches unless you plan to fill them

This helps if you compare bags online and want to know how much you can pack. Write down all the measurements in your notebook to use for the next step.

3. Calculate the Linear Dimension

Many airlines go by your bag's total (linear) size, especially for checked luggage. Here’s the formula:

Height + Width + Depth = Linear Measurement

So, if your suitcase is 70 cm high, 45 cm wide, and 30 cm deep, the total dimensions are 145 cm, which fits within most airlines’ checked baggage limits (158 cm maximum).

4. Weigh the Luggage

After measuring your suitcase's dimensions, lift it using the luggage scale handle or hook. This gives you an accurate weight reading, so you can repack or adjust before travelling.

Measuring Your Suitcase Size Online

Shopping for luggage online? Strand lists both external dimensions and interior volume (in litres). This makes it easy to compare options and choose the right size without the guesswork.

You can also use airline luggage check tools to check if your bag meets airline rules. Simply input your bag’s dimensions and see if it fits carry-on or check-in limits.

Common Luggage Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned travellers get this wrong sometimes. Avoid these common errors:

1. Forgetting the Wheels and Handles

Many bags seem to fit the size limit, until you realise the wheels push them over. Always include wheels and protruding parts, like handles, in your measurements.

2. Only Measuring Inside

Airlines don’t care how much you can fit inside, as only the outer size matters. So, it is best to focus on the full external measurement.

3. Trusting Old Labels

Luggage tags wear out or get smudged. Also, older bags may lose shape or bulk up over time. Double-check to be safe.

4. Not Measuring When Expanded

Expandable bags are great for flexibility, but if you unzip them for extra room, make sure you re-measure them in that expanded state.

Prepare for Your Next Trip with Strand

Measuring your suitcase might feel like a small step, but it’s a smart one. So, grab a tape measure, note your bag’s dimensions, and double-check your airline’s baggage requirements.

 

And if it’s time for a luggage upgrade, shop online at Strand and explore a huge selection of airline-compliant and stylish carry-on and check-in travel bags.

Explore our travel sale deals for amazing discounts.