Midwest luggage rules HELP!

[tazleiten12]

We are flying this year, and since i have only flown once with my parents when i was younger, I'm sure i will have lots of questions. Here is two: #1 We are flying Midwest Airlines, and there luggage rules are as follow's:
Item Maximum Dimensions Maximum Weight
1 Bag - checked 62 in./158 cm. 50 lbs./23 kg.
1 Bag - checked 55 in./158 cm. 50 lbs./23 kg.
1 Bag - carry-on must fit in overhead or under seat (21 x 9 1/2 x 14)
I picked up 2 little bag's on wheels that are 17 X 9 X 12, so i guess that's mine and my husbands carry-on's. But what does the 62" and 55" mean? Is that total diameter, it couldnt be height as that is huge! How do i measure my suitcases to make sure they are less than 62" and 55". #2 Can my children each bring a small backpack, with gameboy's, swimsuits, and snacks as there carry-on?
Thanks!

 

[klynn]

If you measure the length + width + height it must not exceed 62" and the second one must not exceed 55". Yes, your kids can bring each bring a backpack. When my family of 4 travels we are allowed to bring a total of 4 carry-ons plus 4 backpacks.

 

[hickchick]

We flew Midwest three weeks ago for our DW trip. I loved it! We each brought a carry-on and a "personal item" - which were good-sized backpacks for each (Mom, Me, DD6). No problem - and as Midwest has more leg room, lots of space to store backpacks under the seat in front.

Enjoy the chocolate chip cookies!

 

[Dan Murphy]

You'll love Midwest! I live about 10 minutes from O'Hare, but use Midwest out of Milwaukee for 95% of my trips to anywhere. Great airline, enjoy.

 

[tazleiten12]

If you measure the length + width + height it must not exceed 62" and the second one must not exceed 55". Yes, your kids can bring each bring a backpack. When my family of 4 travels we are allowed to bring a total of 4 carry-ons plus 4 backpacks.

I'm not good at measuring, so ill make my DH do it! So just measure how tall it is, how wide and how thick, and add it up, correct?
THANKS!