British Airways Baggage Rules: Size, Weight & Fees

British Airways is the flag carrier of the United Kingdom and operates one of the world’s most extensive flight networks, serving around 200 destinations in more than 65 countries. Are you planning to fly with this airline? If so, it is essential to understand “British Airways cabin bag size and other restrictions” before you pack your bags. Whether you’re traveling for business or on a vocational trip, being aware of the airline’s luggage rules and restrictions can help you avoid unnecessary last-minute hassles. In this guide, you will find complete details on luggage allowed on the aircraft, including weight limits, size restrictions, and essential tips for stress-free packing. 

Hand Baggage Allowance on British Airways Flights

Passengers travelling with British Airways may bring one small item (such as a laptop bag or a purse) on board. Below are the permitted weights and dimensions for hand luggage on British Airways flights. 

Item Type	Maximum Dimensions (L x W x H)
Hand Luggage (Cabin Bag)	56 x 45 x 25 cm
small item	40 x 30 x 15 cm

Note: Both items may have a combined weight of up to 23 kg. Moreover, on board the aircraft, larger handbags must be stored in the overhead locker, while smaller things with a yellow tag should be placed under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Allowance 

The amount of checked luggage you can bring on a British Airways international flight depends on your cabin class and ticket type. Each checked baggage must be no larger than 90 x 75 x 43 cm (including handles and wheels). The weight limit for each piece of luggage ranges from 23 kg to 32 kg, depending on your class of travel and ticket. 

The table below highlights the weight limits based on your cabin class on flights operated by British Airways, BA Euroflyer, and BA Cityflyer: 

Cabin Class/Ticket	Checked Bags
Economy Basic	0 x Bags / Hand Luggage Only
Economy	1 x Bag at 23KG
Premium Economy	2 x Bags at 23KG each
Business	2 x Bags at 32KG each
First	3 x Bags at 32KG each

Note: This restriction does not apply to flights to or from Brazil, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, or Sierra Leone, or to connecting flights between India and the United States, Bermuda, or Canada.

British Airways Additional Baggage Allowance

The cost of adding extra luggage varies by route: £35-£140 if purchased online and £75-£165 at the airport. The table below highlights the pricing ranges for adding extra luggage, comparing online and airport prices: 

Checked Bag – Max: 23KG	Online Price	Airport Price
1st Bag (if adding a bag to a Basic Economy fare)	£35-£80	£75-£95
2nd Bag	£65-£80	£75-£95
3rd Bag	£80-£140	£95-£165
4th Bag	£80-£140	£95-£165

British Airways Overweight & Oversized Baggage

If your checked baggage exceeds British Airways’ standard limits, it will be classified as overweight or oversized, and extra fees may apply. 

Below are some essential details you need to know about the rules for the overweight and oversized baggage: 

1. Overweight Baggage: 

• Any checked bag that exceeds the allowed weight is considered overweight.
• Fees: £65 GBP / €75 EUR / $100 USD / $100 CAD per bag, per journey.
• Baggage exceeding 32 kg will not be accepted.

2. Oversized Baggage:

• Bags larger than the standard size but within 190 x 75 x 65 cm are treated as oversized.
• Oversized items may require special handling; please contact British Airways in advance.
• Ensure oversized items are checked in at least 90 minutes before your flight. 

British Airways Infant Baggage Allowance

When traveling with an infant (under 24 months) without a seat on a British Airways, BA Euroflyer, or BA Cityflyer flight, the infant is entitled to a checked baggage allowance of 23 kg. 

Below is a breakdown of the infant’s checked baggage allowance:

Infant Checked Baggage	Allowance
Economy Basic	0KG
Economy & All Other Ticket Types	23KG

British Airways Baggage Rules for Instruments & Sporting Items

If you’re traveling with musical instruments or sports equipment, they can usually be included in your checked baggage allowance or purchased as extra baggage. In some situations, British Airways may transport larger or heavier items up to 45 kg and 190 x 75 x 65 cm, but items weighing more than 23 kg may incur additional charges. 

Below is an overview of allowances and fees for different baggage types:

Baggage Type	Weight Allowance	Size Restrictions	Fees	Additional Fees
Excess Baggage	32kg	90 x 75 x 43cm	£65 per bag	N/A
Cabin Baggage	23kg	56 x 45 x 25cm	N/A	Airport fees apply if oversized or overweight
Checked Baggage	23kg – 32kg depending on route/ticket type	90 x 75 x 43cm	£20 – £65 depending on route/ticket type	*see excess baggage*

Essential Packing Tips for a Smooth Journey 

Here are some essential tips to follow while packing your bags to avoid mistakes and hassles at the airport: 

1. Check Airline Baggage Guidelines: 

Visit British Airways’ official website before your trip to check the guidelines for baggage allowance. 

2. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On:

Always keep valuable items in your carry-on, such as essential documents and medications.

3. Measure and Weigh Your Bags Before You Leave:

To avoid last-minute surprises at the airport, ensure you check your luggage’s weight and size before departure. 

Conclusion

Understanding the information in this guide on “British Airways Cabin Bag Size and Other Restrictions” can help you avoid extra fees, delays, and last-minute hassles at the airport. Knowing the luggage limits, weight restrictions, and rules for carry-on and checked baggage allows you to plan carefully and pack smartly. By following the guidelines, you can travel with confidence and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey.

Frequently Asked Questions