How to Choose the Right Pelican Case Size

Why Case Size Matters More Than You Think

Choosing the wrong case size is one of the most common mistakes people make. Too small and your gear doesn't fit — or fits so tightly that the foam can't absorb impacts. Too large and items shift during transport, defeating the purpose of a protective case.

The right case gives you enough room for your gear plus adequate foam thickness on all sides.

Understanding Pelican Case Dimensions

Pelican lists three sets of dimensions for each case:

• Exterior — the outside shell measurements
• Interior — the usable space inside the case
• Lid depth vs. base depth — how deep each half opens

Always work from interior dimensions. The exterior tells you how much space the case takes up, but the interior determines what fits inside.

The Foam Allowance Rule

Plan for at least 0.5 inches of foam on each side of your gear. For items over $1,000, go with 1 inch. This means your gear footprint should be at least 1-2 inches smaller than the interior dimensions in every direction.

Popular Pelican Cases by Use Case

Photography and Video

• Pelican 1510 — carry-on size, fits a mirrorless body with 3-4 lenses
• Pelican 1560 — mid-size, ideal for a DSLR kit with lighting accessories
• Pelican 1650 — large format, holds multiple camera bodies and a full lens collection

Drones

• Pelican 1500 — perfect for compact drones like DJI Mini series
• Pelican 1600 — fits DJI Mavic series with controller and accessories
• Pelican Air 1615 — lightweight option for DJI Inspire or larger platforms

Firearms

• Pelican 1700 — standard rifle case, fits most rifles up to 35 inches
• Pelican 1720 — longer option for rifles with scopes or suppressors
• Pelican 1750 — longest standard option for competition rifles

Tools and Instruments

• Pelican 1450 — compact instruments, test equipment
• Pelican 1550 — mid-size tools and electronics
• Pelican 1620 — large tool kits, multiple instruments

How to Measure Your Gear

Step 1: Lay Out Everything

Place all items you want to carry on a flat surface. Include accessories, cables, chargers — everything that goes in the case.

Step 2: Measure the Footprint

Measure the total width and length needed if items are arranged side by side. Don't stack items that can't handle weight on top.

Step 3: Measure Heights

Note the tallest item. This determines the minimum case depth you need. Remember to add foam thickness above and below.

Step 4: Add Foam Allowances

Add your foam buffer to each dimension:

• Width: gear width + 1 inch minimum
• Length: gear length + 1 inch minimum
• Depth: tallest item + 1 inch minimum

Common Sizing Mistakes

Forgetting Accessories

The camera body fits, but what about the battery charger, extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning kit? Account for everything.

Ignoring Lid Space

Most cases have shallower lids. Don't assume items can go in the lid unless you've checked the lid depth. Convoluted foam in the lid provides padding but reduces usable space.

Not Planning for Growth

If you're likely to add a lens or accessory in the next year, size up. It's easier to add foam filler than to buy a new case.

Let AI Handle the Sizing

Choosing the right case gets easier when you can visualize the layout before buying. CutMyCase lets you select your case model, upload photos of your gear, and see exactly how everything fits — before you commit to a purchase.

Our AI generates accurate outlines of your equipment, and you can drag and arrange them in a true-to-scale case layout. No measuring tapes required.