Linear Inches Calculator: Length + Width + Height vs the 62 Inch Limit

How linear inches are measured and what the 62 inch limit means

Linear inches, also called total dimensions or the sum of dimensions, are a bag's length plus width plus height. Airlines use the total for checked bags because it is easier to enforce than three separate limits. A common standard is 62 linear inches. Airlines do not all use the same number, so the selector also offers a custom limit. Convert centimeters with the factor 2.54, since 62 inches is 157.5 cm.

Worked example: a large suitcase measuring 28 by 20 by 12 inches. Add 28 plus 20 plus 12 and you get 60 linear inches. Against a 62 inch limit it is 2 inches under, or 5.1 cm. Add a 2 inch bulging pocket or outside wheels and it reaches 62, right at the line. Always measure the outside of the bag at its widest points, not the size printed on the tag, because manufacturers often list inside dimensions.

A carry-on works differently. Many airlines cap cabin bags at 22 by 14 by 9 inches, which totals 45 linear inches, but they also check each side, so a bag that adds up can still be rejected. Use the bag fit finder for per-side carry-on rules. Going over costs money, so run the overweight and oversize bag fee calculator and check weight with the pounds to kg converter.

Reference table of common bag sizes and their linear inch totals, plain HTML so it works without JavaScript.

Where these numbers come from

The formulas and default values in this calculator are based on:

• NIST SP 811 Appendix B8, conversion factors (nist.gov/pml/special-publication-811/nist-guide-si-appendix-b-conversion-factors/nist-guide-si-appendix-b8) (inch is exactly 2.54 cm)
• length plus width plus height is the standard sum-of-dimensions method. Note: the 62 inch and 45 inch limits are common examples
• your airline sets the actual limit, so confirm on its baggage page

This is a planning estimate, not medical, legal or immigration advice. Fees, allowances, limits and entry rules change, so confirm the figures with your airline, cruise line, customs agency or the official government source before you book or travel, and follow their rules if they differ from this page.