Originally Posted by
emma69
Actually it is likely to be on the very limits of checked bag measurements which, for a lot of airlines, is linear 158cm / 62", so length + width + depth. At 29" (assuming accurate measurements, a lot measure 29.5") it means that your width and depth have total no more than 33 inches. So assuming a width of around 19" (fairly standard) that means the depth can only be 14" which is cutting it quite fine, and almost certainly wouldn't allow for any of the suitcases with expansion zippers (if expanded). My 29" is on the very very limits (unexpanded) and has been measured by airlines. I have since purchased a 24" to avoid the hassle.
These are valid points. I remembered later that the 29-inch bag I used to check had a different configuration from anything being sold today, and no wheels. It is unfortunately true that the true exterior dimensions of many bags are greater than the stated size.
Right now I'm planning a trip for which I might need a bag that is 30 inches long inside. Some duffel bags that long can be checked, because they're smaller in the other dimensions than a typical rollaboard.