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British Airways Baggage Size & Weight Limits

This page lists the British Airways cabin and checked baggage allowances, including maximum dimensions, weight limits and excess baggage fees. Use the size checker to confirm your own suitcase fits before you get to the airport.

What is carry-on, personal item and checked baggage?
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British Airways
BAUnited Kingdom
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Baggage allowance for British Airways · check fare, route and operating-carrier conditions before travel

PIPersonal ItemGoes under the seat in front of you
30 × 40
15
Max dimensions30 × 40 × 15 cm
Max width30 cm
Max height40 cm
Max depth15 cm
Max weightNo weight limit

A handbag, laptop bag or small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you.

COCarry-on BaggageGoes in the overhead bin
45 × 56
25
Max dimensions45 × 56 × 25 cm
Max width45 cm
Max height56 cm
Max depth25 cm
Max weight23 kg

One cabin bag per passenger. Measured with wheels and handles included.

CBChecked BaggageHanded over at the check-in desk
Max dimensions90 × 75 × 43 cm
Standard bag weight23 kg
Bags includedEconomy 0–1; Premium Economy usually 2; Business 2; First 3

British Airways publishes a per-bag maximum of 90 × 75 × 43 cm rather than a 158 cm linear limit. Economy/Premium Economy: 23 kg per bag; Business/First: 32 kg per bag.

Allowance by Cabin Class / Fare

Class / fareCarry-onChecked bagsWeight / allowance
Economy1 cabin bag + 1 hand bag1 bag (0 on Economy Basic)23 kg
Premium Economy1 cabin bag + 1 hand bag2 bags on most routes23 kg
A limited number of routes have a lower checked-bag allowance.
Business1 cabin bag + 1 hand bag2 bags32 kg
First1 cabin bag + 1 hand bag3 bags32 kg

Baggage allowance for British Airways · check fare, route and operating-carrier conditions before travel

Excess & Oversize Fees (USD)

Extra checked bag$75 – $120
Overweight (23–32 kg)$100
Overweight (32–45 kg)$200
Oversize (over 208 cm)$150
Gate-checked cabin bag$70

Fees vary by route and are usually cheaper when paid online before travel than at the airport.

Good to Know

Published dimensions include wheels, handles and external pockets.Baggage rules can differ on codeshare and partner-operated flights.Special items such as sports gear or instruments need advance booking.Always confirm on the airline's website before you travel.
Baggage rules last updated June 2026

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Enter your suitcase dimensions in the size checker and see instantly whether it meets these limits.

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The three baggage types, explained

Airlines split what you travel with into three allowances. Each has its own size and weight limit, and the one you exceed decides what you pay.

Personal item

The small bag that goes under the seat in front of you — handbag, laptop bag or small backpack. Usually free and rarely weighed.

Carry-on

The wheeled case you take into the cabin and store in the overhead bin. Sized at the gate, and weighed by many airlines.

Checked baggage

The large suitcase you hand over at the desk and collect at your destination. Charged by bag, with strict weight limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, British Airways typically allows free carry-on baggage within their specified size and weight limits. Check the dimensions above to ensure your bag complies with British Airways regulations.