BA · Europe

British Airways Carry-On Size

Complete carry-on and personal item dimensions for British Airways, including weight limits, enforcement level, and packing tips.

Moderate enforcement

Carry-on bag

Dimensions (cm) 56 × 45 × 25 cm

Dimensions (inches) 22.0 × 17.7 × 9.8 in

Linear total 126 cm / 49.6 in

Weight limit 23 kg / 50.7 lb

Personal item

Dimensions (cm) 40 × 30 × 15 cm

Dimensions (inches) 15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in

Weight limit 23 kg / 50.7 lb

Important notes for British Airways passengers

Cabin bag allowance depends on fare: Basic/Economy allows only a small personal item (40x30x15 cm). Economy with a larger cabin bag (56x45x25 cm) is included in higher fare tiers. Combined weight of both bags must not exceed 23 kg. Club World and First allow two cabin bags.

View British Airways's official baggage policy

Packing tips for British Airways

British Airways has moderate enforcement — limits are real but not always checked. That said, oversized bags risk being gate-checked, especially on full flights. Use packing cubes to stay organized and compressible, and check our what not to pack guide to avoid wasting space on items you will not need.

For clothing that packs small and performs well in transit, see our travel fabrics guide and our merino t-shirt roundup — merino compresses better than cotton and handles multi-day wear between washes.

FAQ

What is the carry-on size limit for British Airways?

British Airways allows carry-on bags up to 56 × 45 × 25 cm (22.0 × 17.7 × 9.8 inches), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight is 23 kg (50.7 lb).

What is the personal item size for British Airways?

British Airways allows a personal item up to 40 × 30 × 15 cm (15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 inches). This must fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum weight for a personal item is 23 kg (50.7 lb).

Does British Airways weigh carry-on bags?

British Airways has moderate enforcement. They may weigh or measure bags, especially on full flights or at certain airports. Slightly oversized bags sometimes pass, but it is not guaranteed.

Can I bring a carry-on and a personal item on British Airways?

British Airways generally allows one carry-on bag for the overhead bin and one personal item for under the seat. Cabin bag allowance depends on fare: Basic/Economy allows only a small personal item (40x30x15 cm). Economy with a larger cabin bag (56x45x25 cm) is included in higher fare tiers. Combined weight of both bags must not exceed 23 kg. Club World and First allow two cabin bags.

Flying multiple airlines?

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