Measure the bag you will actually travel with.

Three outside dimensions. A packed bag. A measuring tape.

1. Pack and close the bag

Measure it with your travel belongings inside. Bulging pockets or an expansion panel can change its size. Check closed and expanded versions separately.

2. Take three outside measurements

Measure total height with wheels and the handle retracted, full width and maximum depth. A straight edge against protruding parts helps locate the edges. A product label may describe only the shell.

3. Enter all three sides

The order of sides A, B and C does not matter: the checker accounts for orientation. Choose centimetres or inches. The checker uses the unit you measured in. Calculated equivalents are labelled when an airline does not publish both units.

4. Weigh the packed bag

The empty weight is not enough when a limit applies. Correct size does not offset excess weight. If no numeric limit is published, other airline requirements still apply.

Personal item or cabin bag?

The personal item is the small bag under the seat; the standard cabin bag goes overhead. A backpack may belong to either category depending on its size and the ticket. A “cabin approved” label does not replace measurements.