British Airways Hand Luggage
British Airways hand luggage: size & weight limits
British Airways allows a cabin bag of 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 17.7 × 9.8 in), max 23 kg (51 lb), included in the fare. The free under-seat bag can measure up to 40 × 30 × 15 cm (15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in).
Allowance at a glance
| Bag | Max size | Max weight | Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal item (under the seat)Must fit under the seat in front. | 40 × 30 × 15 cm15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in | 23 kg51 lb | Included |
| Cabin bag (overhead bin)Includes wheels and handles; you must be able to lift it yourself. | 56 × 45 × 25 cm22 × 17.7 × 9.8 in | 23 kg51 lb | Included |
Worth knowing
- Both cabin bags are included on every fare, including Basic.
- Checked bags may be up to 90 x 75 x 43 cm, which is a box limit rather than a linear sum.
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Figures reviewed 2026-08-09. Always confirm on the official British Airways baggage page
Frequently asked questions
What size cabin bag does British Airways allow?
British Airways's cabin bag limit is 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22 × 17.7 × 9.8 in) with a weight limit of 23 kg (51 lb). It is included in the standard fare.
What is British Airways's personal item size?
The small bag must fit under the seat in front of you and can measure up to 40 × 30 × 15 cm (15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in), up to 23 kg. It is included with every fare.
What happens if my bag is too big at the gate?
If your bag doesn't fit the sizer, it is checked into the hold and you pay a gate fee — typically the most expensive way to bring a bag. Measure your bag including wheels and handles before you fly, and check the current rules on British Airways's official baggage page.
Fits? Now pack it right.
journeybot builds your packing list on-device from your destination, dates, and luggage type — sized to the bag you're actually allowed to bring.
