Carry-On and Checked Baggage Allowance:
What Travelers Should Know
This page provides general information on airline baggage rules, including size limits, weight allowances, and common restrictions based
on publicly available airline policies.
You can also review airline baggage fees and extra charges before booking to avoid surprises
This page shares general baggage allowance information based on publicly available airline policies. Since rules may vary, travelers should check their airline’s baggage policy for specific limits.
Since airline rules vary, checking the airline-specific baggage policy before travel is recommended.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance: General Guidelines
You can take carry-on baggage along with you inside the cabin. Most airlines allow at least one carry-on bag, though allowances may vary by fare type.
Standard Carry-On Allowance
- Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag
- Business / First Class: 2 carry-on bags (varies by airline)
- Bag must fit in:
- Overhead bin or
- Under the seat in front of you
Some airlines may apply additional conditions if carry-on baggage exceeds allowed limits. Reviewing airline baggage fees can provide general context.
Typical Carry-On Size
Most airlines accept sizes close to:
- 55 × 40 × 20–25 cm
- Handles and wheels are included
- Oversized bags may be checked at the gate
Soft-sided bags may fit more easily into size checkers.
Carry-On Weight Limit
- Economy: 7–10 kg
- Business / First: 10–15 kg
- Low-cost airlines are stricter
If a bag appears heavy, some airlines may weigh it during check-in or boarding.
Overweight cabin bags may be moved to checked baggage with fees—see overweight baggage charges.
Personal Item Rules
One personal item can be taken along with the carry-on.
Allowed Personal Items
- Laptop bag
- Small handbag
- Compact backpack
Rule
- Must fit under the seat
- Should be small and light
- Not meant for extra packing
What You Can & Cannot Carry in Cabin
Allowed Items
- Clothes
- Electronics & chargers
- Books
- Snacks (solid food)
- Medicines & essentials
Personal item size rules vary—compare personal item vs carry-on rules before packing.
Not Allowed
- Sharp objects
- Flammable items
- Large liquid containers
- Restricted items by airport security
Some items are restricted due to security rules—check airport security restricted items in advance.
Liquid Rules – Universal Standard
Most airlines follow similar liquid policies, generally including:
- Max 100 ml per container
- All liquids in 1 transparent, 1-liter zip-lock bag
- One bag per passenger
Applies to:
- Toiletries
- Liquids
- Gels
- Creams
- Aerosols
These liquid limits are commonly applied across many international airports, though local rules may vary.
See airport liquid rules guide for exceptions.
Checked Baggage Allowance: General Guidelines
Checked bags are stored in the aircraft’s hold. Allowance depends on:
- Airline
- Route
- Fare type
- Travel class
Common Weight Allowance
| Travel Class | Typical Allowance |
| Economy | 20–30 kg |
| Business | 35–40 kg |
| First | 45–50 kg |
Some airlines use the piece concept (1–2 bags instead of weight).
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Checked Bag Size Limit
- Maximum: 158 cm (L + W + H)
- Oversized bags attract extra charges
Excess & Oversized Baggage
Extra charges apply if:
- Bag exceeds free weight
- Size is more than 158 cm
- Special items are carried
Common Chargeable Items
- Sports equipment
- Musical instruments
- Extra suitcases
Some airlines allow baggage options to be added in advance.
CTA: For general information on baggage-related charges, you can review airline baggage fees here.
Pet Travel – The General Guidelines
Pet travel rules vary widely by airline and route.
| Pets in Cabin | Pets in Cargo |
| Usually allowed for small cats or dogs | For larger pets |
| Pet + carrier must fit under the seat | Must be in airline-approved crates |
| Weight limits apply | Health certificates needed |
| Advance booking is required | Charges apply |
Reviewing the specific airline’s pet travel policy before booking is recommended.
Read detailed airline pet travel rules before making reservations.
Infant & Baby Baggage Rules
| Lap Infants | Strollers & Car Seats |
| No separate seat | One stroller and one car seat are usually checked free |
| Usually, no extra carry-on | Can be checked at: |
| One diaper bag is allowed | 1. Check-in counter |
| Baby food, formula & medicines allowed | 2. Gate (for foldable strollers) |
Special Items – What to Know
| Item Type | Carry-On | Checked |
| Power banks | Yes | No |
| Sharp objects | Yes | Yes |
| Firearms | Yes | Yes(declared) |
| Dry ice | Limited | Limited |
| Medical oxygen | Yes | With approval |
Declaring special items in advance is recommended.
Carry-On vs Checked Bag – Quick Guide
| Carry-On is best if | Checked Bag is better if |
| You have valuables | Your bag is heavy |
| You need items during the flight | You carry liquids |
| You want to skip baggage claim | Size exceeds cabin limits |
General baggage considerations
- Weigh your bag at home
- Keep valuables in carry-on
- Review airline-specific baggage policies
- Prepay extra baggage online
- Leave space for return shopping
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is carry-on baggage free on airlines?
Carry-on baggage is included with many standard fares, but allowances may vary by airline and ticket type.
Can I divide my checked luggage into two bags?
Some airlines allow baggage to be divided into multiple bags under certain allowance systems. This depends on the airline’s baggage policy.
Where can I find baggage rules for my airline?
Baggage rules are usually listed on the airline’s website. Travelers can also review airline-specific baggage policy pages for general guidance.
Do baggage rules change by route?
Yes. Baggage rules can vary by route, especially on international flights.
Are baggage fees refundable?
In most cases, baggage fees are non-refundable. This can vary by airline and fare conditions.
