How to Measure Your Gear for the Right Case

A quick measuring guide to help you choose the ideal interior size, depth, and foam layout before ordering your protective case.

Choosing the right case starts with accurate measurements. A case that is too small won’t protect your gear properly, while a case that is too large adds unnecessary bulk and weight. This guide walks you through a simple measuring process so you can confidently select the best interior dimensions and foam layout for your equipment.

1. Tools You’ll Need

You only need a few basics to measure correctly.

• Measuring tape or ruler
• Flat surface or table
• Pen and paper (or your phone notes)
• All items you plan to store in the case

2. Measure Length, Width, and Height

Measure your item in its widest and tallest points, not just the main body. This includes handles, knobs, optics, grips, and attachments.

• Length (L): The longest side, end to end.
• Width (W): The side-to-side measurement.
• Height (H): The tallest point when the item is sitting upright.

Write these three measurements down — they’re the foundation for selecting the correct interior size.

3. Allow for Proper Clearance

Your gear needs breathing room. If it fits too tightly, it can stress both the equipment and the foam.

• Add at least 0.5 to 1 inch of extra space on all sides.
• For delicate optics or electronics, consider 1 to 1.5 inches of clearance.
• For long or heavy items, allow additional room for easier removal.

This clearance ensures the foam can properly cushion your gear without compressing it too tightly.

4. Determine the Ideal Case Depth

Depth is one of the most important measurements when choosing a case.

• Measure the full height of your item, including any protruding parts.
• Ensure the base foam and lid foam still allow the case to close comfortably.
• For thicker items, you may need a deeper case or a two-layer foam layout.
• Items that must remain upright inside the case may require taller interior space.

5. If You Have Multiple Items

When storing more than one piece of gear, consider how the items fit together.

• Lay all items on the table in the layout you plan to use.
• Measure total footprint from the two widest points.
• Leave 1 to 2 inches of foam spacing between items.
• Account for spare batteries, cables, tools, accessories, or future additions.

6. Decide on Your Foam Layout

Your measurements determine how your foam will be customized.

• Pre-scored (pick-and-pluck) foam works well for simple shapes.
• Custom foam is best for detailed or fragile items.
• Layered foam helps accommodate tall or oddly shaped equipment.
• Leave space for cables, chargers, and future accessories.

7. Match Your Measurements to Case Interior Dimensions

Once you have your measurements and clearance added, find a case with interior dimensions slightly larger than your final layout. Never use exterior dimensions when choosing a case size.

• Compare your measurements to the interior length, width, and depth of the case.
• Make sure the lid foam does not make contact with delicate items.
• If your gear sits too high, choose a deeper case.
• If the layout is too wide, consider rotating items or sizing up one model.

8. Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these easy-to-make mistakes when choosing the right case.

• Measuring the gear body but forgetting protruding parts or attachments.
• Using exterior case measurements instead of interior dimensions.
• Not allowing extra space for foam compression.
• Choosing a case that is too shallow for the lid to close properly.
• Forgetting to plan space for accessories or future additions.