Place the tape measure on one side of the luggage and run it across the front to the other side to measure the width. Include any handles or other items on the side of the bag. Write this measurement and other measurements, in inches.
Place the tape measure on the bottom of the luggage and run it across the front of the baggage to the top to measure length. Include any wheels, stands and handles.
Measure the depth. Place the tape measure on the side of the baggage at the back side. Run it across the side to the front of the bag. Include any handles and over-sized pockets.
Add all three measurements together. To get the linear inches of your luggage you must add the width, length and depth of your baggage. This number is commonly used by airlines when determining if a bag can be carried on board.
Weigh baggage. Place your bag, once it has been completely packed, on a scale. Write down its weight and keep on hand until you travel. Remember this number so you can determine if you will have to pay an additional fee for it being overweight at time of check in. If your bag does not fit on the scale to get an accurate measurement, hold the bag while you stand on the scale. Then subtract how much you weigh from the total weight.
