British Airways’ carry-on size limit and restrictions

This guide will help you understand the important information about British Airways’s carry-on requirements, from the dimensions or weight of your luggage to the extra items you can bring on board.

What is British Airways’ carry-on policy?

British Airways allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag at no extra cost as part of British Airways, BA Cityflyer or BA Euroflyer baggage allowance.

Carry-on bags are placed in the overhead bins while personal items are stored under the seat in front of you.

	Carry-on bag	Personal item
Max dimensions	22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm)	16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
Max weight	50 lbs (23kg)	50 lbs (23kg)
Allowance	1 carry-on bag (fee free)	1 personal item (fee free)

Carry-on luggage should be within 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm) in size, and this includes the bag’s wheels, pockets, and handles. You can also bring one personal item of up to 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm). Both items can weigh up to 50 lbs (23kg) each.

What is the carry-on liquid policy for British Airways passengers?

A woman smiles as she stands beside the big glass windows of an airport terminal while holding her ticket.

British Airways observes the TSA’s regulations for liquids carried on board. Specifically, all liquids must be placed in individual containers no larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml).

The items must fit inside a single, clear, resealable plastic bag no larger than 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20) cm with a maximum capacity of up to 1 liter (about 1 quart).

Traveling with infants and carry-on rules for British Airways passengers

For children aged 2 to 11, British Airways provides the same baggage allowance that adults are given for carry-on items. If you’re bringing a child below 2 years old, you’re allowed to carry a second bag containing nappies, a changing mat, and baby food.

The additional bag must not exceed the standard carry-on size limit of 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25) cm.

A toddler points at an aeroplane window with a view of a cloudy blue sky.

Can I bring extra items on board British Airways flights?

British Airways passengers can bring sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices as carry-on items as long as they meet the prescribed carry-on size specifications.

Tips for maximizing British Airways’ carry-on baggage allowance:

Pack smart using a small suitcase that complies with size requirements. Use the KAYAK Bag Measurement tool in the KAYAK app or website to measure the size of your bag accurately.
Wear your heavier clothing and pack light. Here are our tips on how to pack a carry-on.
Make good use of the personal item privilege and buy travel-size toiletries.

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British Airways carry-on size FAQ

A woman squeezing a red suitcase into the overhead compartment's limited space.

How strict is British Airways with its carry-on rules and requirements?

British Airways enforces its carry-on policy strictly, and passengers are advised to obey its rules to avoid paying unnecessary fees or any inconvenience at the airport or on the plane.

Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on bag at the same time on British Airways?

Yes, British Airways allows each passenger to bring one personal item and one piece of carry-on baggage at no extra cost. Personal items include backpacks, handbags, laptop bags, umbrellas, and briefcases.

Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 21.08.2023 and may vary with time.

British Airways carry-on size guide