British Airways Checked Baggage Fees and Policy Guide

It’s better to learn British Airways baggage allowance for 2025 now than be hit with unexpected extra charges when you check in. Below is a quick overview
of British Airways’ pricing differences and how many bags BA lets you take depending on your fare.

First Checked Bag

If you booked a Basic (Hand Baggage Only) ticket, you must pay for your first bag. Buying this bag online is much cheaper than waiting until you reach the airport. Online prices typically range from £25 to £80.

If you have a standard Economy ticket or higher, your first checked bag is usually free.

Second Checked Bag

The fee for a second checked item applies when your initial baggage allowance has been used. For most standard tickets, this means paying for your second bag.

Purchasing a second bag online usually costs between £60 and £80. Remember that this fee is on top of your existing ticket price.

Third Checked Bag

British Airways allows you to check in up to 10 bags per person, but fees keep rising after the second item. The charge for a third checked bag or more can start around £80 online, depending on your route.

Note: British Airways applies different fees depending on your fare type, destination, and the size of your luggage. All standard checked bags must be under 90 x 75 x 43 cm (35 x 30 x 17 in) in size.

Exceptions to British Airways’ Checked Baggage Fee

Some passengers get a greater baggage allowance or reduced fees due to their traveller status or age.

Passenger Type	Special Allowance	What You Get
Infants (Under 2 years old)	Free checked bag	+ 2 baby items (stroller, car seat, etc.)
Executive Club Silver	1 extra free bag	All bags up to 32kg
Executive Club Gold	Up to 2 free bags	All bags up to 32kg
Overweight Bag 23–32kg	Heavy Bag Charge	~£65 GBP / $100 USD

Checking Special Items on British Airways: Sports Gear, Musical Instruments & Bulky Luggage

Most special items can fly with you, but BA says they must meet specific special baggage rules.

Item Type	Allowed?	Important Policy Details
Sports Gear	✔ Usually	May count as paid extra if oversized; pack securely
Musical Instruments	✔	Small = carry-on; large = checked in hard case
Bulky Items	✔ with limits	Max: 190 x 75 x 65 cm; call BA for confirmation

Note: Always confirm large sporting equipment approval before travel. Not sure about your item? Reach out anytime: +1-855-510-5187.

Tips to Reduce British Airways Baggage Fees

Smart packing tricks like these help you dodge costly baggage fees and last-minute payments at the BA check-in desk.

Book a Higher Fare Class: Look for fares with “baggage included.”
Pay Online and Early: Pre-pay at least 24 hours before travel. BA airport bag fees are significantly higher.
Join the Executive Club: Earn tier benefits for more free bags.

Use a Weight Scale: Avoid surprise heavy bag fees at check-in. Stay under 23kg per bag to avoid the Heavy Bag Charge

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the heaviest a single checked bag can be in British Airways?

The absolute maximum weight for any single piece of checked baggage on British Airways is 32kg (70lb). Anything heavier must ship via cargo or you must repack/readjust there itself.

Can I check my medical equipment for free on British Airways?

Yes. Medical equipment and mobility aids are carried free of charge and not counted in your allowance. Notify the BA airline ahead of travel.

Does my Economy ticket include a free checked bag?

Usually, yes — for standard Economy (World Traveller). Economy Basic fares do not include any free checked bags. Always check your booking confirmation so that you know what and how much you can and cannot carry.

Is it cheaper to pay for overweight baggage online?

Yes. Always check your precise route charges in advance to avoid high airport BA luggage fees.