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British Airways baggage allowance & sizes guide

Got a trip booked with BA? Read our simple, no-fuss British Airways baggage allowance size guide.

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Disclaimer: This luggage size guide is provided for informational purposes only to assist customers in selecting suitable travel bags. Penneys is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with British Airways in any way. All airline baggage policies, including size and weight restrictions, are subject to change. Customers should always check directly with British Airways for the most up-to-date luggage requirements before travelling.

Got a trip booked with BA and not sure what you can take? Don’t fret! With our simple no-fuss guide on British Airways baggage allowance, we’ll cover appropriate British Airways cabin bags, how heavy the carry-on luggage can be, the size of checked luggage and much more!

BA hand baggage allowance

No matter your ticket type, you will always be allowed to bring two pieces of hand luggage on board your British Airways flight. This usually includes:

A larger bag (must be stowed in the overhead locker)

  • Cabin bags

  • Cabin suitcases

  • Rucksacks or backpacks

A smaller bag (will need to fit under the seat in front of you)

British Airways cabin bag size

Your larger bag must not exceed the dimensions 56x45x25 cm to adhere to the British Airways cabin bag size guidelines. Any larger than these BA carry-on requirements, and you may be charged an excess baggage fee.

British Airways hand baggage weight

Both pieces of hand luggage are allowed to weigh a maximum of 23kg each. Make sure to make the most of your British Airways weight allowance by using packing cubes to efficiently pack everything you need. Use your smaller bag of choice for personal essentials such as travel toiletries (as long as no liquids or cosmetics are over 100ml and they’re stored in a clear bag).

British Airways checked baggage allowance

Your allowance for checked baggage will depend on your fare type. Each piece of checked luggage should not exceed the dimensions 90x75x43 cm. The maximum weight for each piece can range between 23kg and 32kg based on your fare type. The variations are as follows:

  • Economy Basic: Hand luggage only

  • Economy: One piece of checked baggage at 23kg

  • Premium Economy: Two pieces of checked baggage at 23kg each

  • Business: Two pieces of checked baggage at 32kg each

  • First: Three pieces of checked baggage at 32kg each

British Airways infant baggage allowance

If you’re flying with an infant (under two years old), you will receive an additional 23kg bag within your checked baggage allowance for those important baby essentials. Whether that’s easy to pack baby clothes or some cuddly soft toys. However, if the infant has a plane seat as part of their flight, they will be booked as a child and receive the same British Airways baggage allowance as an adult.

Approved British Airways hand luggage

Designed to be both protective and statement-making, this zebra pattern hard shell suitcase is the perfect choice for those who want to live on the wild side. Easy to lift, manoeuvre through the airport and organise your belongings in, we know this suitcase is set to see the sights! 

Size: Large

Dimensions: 79.5cm x 57cm x 32.5cm

Weight: 4.79kg

Price: £45

Family trip, anyone? With its versatile 360-degree spinner wheels, easy access telescopic handle and spacious interior, our Stitch suitcase is the perfect case for family staycations and trips abroad.

Size: Large

Dimensions: 76.5cm x 50cm x 28.5cm

Price: £45

If you’re looking for luggage that helps keep your belongings protected and secure, you can’t go wrong with this large hard-shell trunk suitcase. Complete with an expandable handle and combination lock, you can rest easy knowing everything is right where you left it.

Size: Large

Dimensions: 79.5cm x 50.5cm x 35.5cm

Weight: 4.49kg

Price: £50

FAQs

What is the baggage allowance for BA?

  • For British Airways, in terms of hand baggage allowance, all passengers are allowed to take a cabin bag (56x45x25 cm) and a smaller personal bag with a weight of 23kg each. For BA’s policy on checked baggage, it depends on your fare type as it can range from zero to four bags (90x75x43 cm) with a weight of 23-32kg each.

 How much is extra baggage on British Airways?

  • It’s generally cheaper to purchase additional baggage online, rather than at the airport itself. At the time of writing, extra baggage prices usually range from £35-£140 online and £75-£165 in-person at the airport. You can buy up to a maximum of four extra checked pieces of luggage, all with a weight limit of 23kg each.