How to Convert Feet to Meters: The Complete Guide
Converting feet to meters is one of the most common unit conversions you'll encounter, whether you're traveling internationally, working on a project, or studying. In this guide, we'll show you the exact formula, easy tricks, and practical examples.
The Conversion Formula
The key to converting feet to meters is knowing this simple relationship:
1 foot = 0.3048 meters
To convert any measurement in feet to meters, simply multiply by 0.3048.
Meters = Feet × 0.3048
Quick Mental Math Trick
Don't have a calculator? Use this approximation:
- Feet × 0.3 gives you a close estimate
- Or: Feet ÷ 3.3 for a slightly more accurate result
Practical Examples
Example 1: Height Conversion
A person is 6 feet tall. How tall are they in meters?
6 × 0.3048 = 1.83 meters
A person is 6 feet tall. How tall are they in meters?
6 × 0.3048 = 1.83 meters
Example 2: Room Dimensions
A room is 15 feet long. What's that in meters?
15 × 0.3048 = 4.57 meters
A room is 15 feet long. What's that in meters?
15 × 0.3048 = 4.57 meters
Example 3: Altitude
An airplane is flying at 35,000 feet. How high is that in meters?
35,000 × 0.3048 = 10,668 meters (about 10.7 km)
An airplane is flying at 35,000 feet. How high is that in meters?
35,000 × 0.3048 = 10,668 meters (about 10.7 km)
Quick Reference Chart
| Feet | Meters |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.30 |
| 3 | 0.91 |
| 5 | 1.52 |
| 6 | 1.83 |
| 10 | 3.05 |
| 20 | 6.10 |
| 50 | 15.24 |
| 100 | 30.48 |
Converting Feet and Inches to Meters
Often measurements include both feet and inches. Here's how to convert:
- Convert inches to feet by dividing by 12
- Add to the feet value
- Multiply the total by 0.3048
Example: 5 feet 8 inches to meters
Step 1: 8 inches ÷ 12 = 0.67 feet
Step 2: 5 + 0.67 = 5.67 feet
Step 3: 5.67 × 0.3048 = 1.73 meters
Step 1: 8 inches ÷ 12 = 0.67 feet
Step 2: 5 + 0.67 = 5.67 feet
Step 3: 5.67 × 0.3048 = 1.73 meters
Why Use Meters?
Meters are the standard unit of length in the metric system, used by most countries worldwide. Understanding both systems helps with:
- International travel and communication
- Scientific research and publications
- Sports (track events, swimming pools)
- Construction and engineering projects
Convert Feet to Meters Instantly
Use our free Length Converter for quick, accurate conversions!
Related Conversions
- Meters to feet: Multiply by 3.281
- Feet to centimeters: Multiply by 30.48
- Inches to meters: Multiply by 0.0254
