How to measure a carry-on bag
Airlines measure the outside of the bag, packed, including wheels, handles and anything in the pockets. That's what the gate sizer checks, so measure it the same way.
- Pack it first. Measure the bag the way you'll fly with it. A full front pocket can add 3 to 5 cm.
- Height. Stand it upright on a hard floor and measure from the floor to the top of the handle, wheels included. Push the telescopic handle all the way down.
- Width. Measure across the widest point, including side handles and any bulging pockets.
- Depth. Measure front to back at the thickest point, with the expansion zip closed.
- Weigh it. Use a luggage scale, or stand on a bathroom scale holding the bag and subtract your own weight.
Common questions
Is the brand's listed size the same as the size at the gate?
Not always. Some brands list the body without wheels or handles, and soft bags grow when packed. Measure it yourself before you fly.
Can I squeeze a soft bag into the sizer?
Often, if it isn't packed full. The checker's Squeeze it in slider shows how much give a soft bag needs to fit. Hard cases don't squeeze.
Which measurement is height, width and depth?
Airlines don't mind how the bag is turned. Compare your longest side with their longest limit, the middle with the middle, and the shortest with the shortest. The checker does this for you.