Airline Baggage Guidelines – Carry-On & Checked Bags

Planning for a work trip, family holiday, or travelling solo, but confused about the airline’s baggage policy? You don’t have to worry anymore.

This page can provide you with clear and easy-to-follow guidelines for carry-on and checked-in baggage to avoid any confusion, extra charges, or unwanted struggles at the airport.

Airline baggage rules can feel confusing. Sizes change, weights vary, and one extra kilo can cost you a lot.

This page gives you clear, general baggage rules that work for most airlines.
For exact limits, always check the specific airline baggage policy using the shortcut links above.

General Rules for Carry-On Baggage – General Rules

You can take carry-on baggage along with you inside the cabin. One cabin bag is allowed, even on the basic fares in most airlines.

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

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

Tip: Soft bags are easier to squeeze into size checkers.

Carry-On Weight Limit

  • Economy: 7–10 kg
  • Business / First: 10–15 kg
  • Low-cost airlines are stricter

If your bag looks heavy, airlines may weigh it.

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 (H2)

Allowed Items

  • Clothes
  • Electronics & chargers
  • Books
  • Snacks (solid food)
  • Medicines & essentials

Not Allowed

  • Sharp objects
  • Flammable items
  • Large liquid containers
  • Restricted items by airport security

Liquid Rules – Universal Standard

Most airlines follow the same liquid policy:

  • 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

Checked Baggage – General Rules

Checked bags are stored in the aircraft’s hold. Allowance depends on:

  • Airline
  • Route
  • Fare type
  • Travel class

Common Weight Allowance

Travel ClassTypical Allowance
Economy20–30 kg
Business35–40 kg
First45–50 kg

Some airlines use the piece concept (1–2 bags instead of weight).

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Virgin Atlantic Carry-On & Checked Bags
United Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Turkish Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Eva air Carry-On & Checked Bags
WestJet Carry-On & Checked Bags
Volaris Carry-On & Checked Bags
Sun Country Checked Carry-On & Checked Bags
Southwest Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Spirit Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Singapore Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Qatar Airways Carry-On & Checked Bags
Qantas Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Lufthansa Carry-On & Checked Bags
KLM Carry-On & Checked Bags
Jetblue Carry-On & Checked Bags
Hawaiian Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Finnair Carry-On & Checked Bags
Etihad Airways Carry-On & Checked Bags
Ethiopian Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Emirates Carry-On & Checked Bags
Delta Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Copa Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Contour Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
British Airways Checked Carry-On & Checked Bags
Avelo Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
American Airlines Carry-On & Checked Bags
Allegiant Air Carry-On & Checked Bags
Alaska Carry-On & Checked Bags
Air France Carry-On & Checked Bags
Air Canada Carry-On & Checked Bags
Aeromexico Carry-On & Checked Bags
Aer Lingus Carry-On & Checked Bags

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

Paying online in advance is usually cheaper.

Pet Travel – The General Guidelines

Pet travel rules vary widely by airline and route.

Pets in CabinPets in Cargo
Usually allowed for small cats or dogsFor larger pets
Pet + carrier must fit under the seatMust be in airline-approved crates
Weight limits applyHealth certificates needed
Advance booking is requiredCharges apply

You should always refer to the specific airline’s guidelines for pet travel.

Infant & Baby Baggage Rules

Lap InfantsStrollers & Car Seats
No separate seatOne stroller and one car seat are usually checked free
Usually, no extra carry-onCan be checked at:
One diaper bag is allowed1. Check-in counter
Baby food, formula & medicines allowed2. Gate (for foldable strollers)

Special Items – What to Know

Item TypeCarry-OnChecked
Power banksYesNo
Sharp objectsYesYes
FirearmsYesYes(declared)
Dry iceLimitedLimited
Medical oxygenYesWith approval

Always declare special items in advance.

Carry-On vs Checked Bag – Quick Guide

Carry-On is best ifChecked Bag is better if
You have valuablesYour bag is heavy
You need items during the flightYou carry liquids
You want to skip baggage claimSize exceeds cabin limits

Smart Baggage Tips

  • Weigh your bag at home
  • Keep valuables in carry-on
  • Read airline-specific baggage pages
  • Prepay extra baggage online
  • Leave space for return shopping

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is carry-on free on airlines?

Can I divide my checked luggage into two bags?

Where can I find the exact baggage rules?

Do baggage rules change by route?

Yes, especially for international flights.

Do we get the refund for baggage fees?

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