Hand luggage rules 2026: Dimensions and weight by airline

Travelling with only hand luggage saves time, avoids baggage fees, and gets you through the airport faster. But beware: each airline applies its own rules, and they can differ significantly.

What hand luggage dimensions are allowed per airline?

Airlines differentiate between two types of hand luggage:

• Personal items – small pieces of luggage (like a bag or a backpack) which can fit under the seat in front of you
• Cabin bag – bigger pieces of luggage that need to be stored in the overhead compartment (usually a suitcase or a bigger bag)

*dimensions including wheels and handles

Here are the key rules for 2026:

British Airways

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
• Personal item / hand bag: 40 x 30 x 15 cm
• Weight: Up to 23 kg per item

Important details:

• One of the most generous policies in Europe
• You can bring 2 items as standard (cabin bag + personal item, no upgrade needed)
• High weight limit, but you must be able to lift your bag yourself

Ryanair

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (10 kg)
• Personal item: 40 x 20 x 25 cm (under seat)

Key rules:

• Extremely strict size enforcement
• Included in the standard ticket: personal item only
• To be able to take a cabin bag you need to purchase Priority Boarding (£6–£20)

easyJet

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
• Personal item: 45 x 36 x 20 cm (under seat)
• Weight: Up to 15 kg per item

What to know:

• All passengers can bring one personal item
• To bring a larger cabin bag, passengers need to pay extra 

Jet2

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
• Weight: 10 kg per item

Important details:

• One cabin bag included as standard for every passenger (excluding infants)
• Extra cabin bags must be purchased in advance (cheaper online)

KLM

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm
• Combined weight: 12 kg total

Important:

• Economy Light fares may have restrictions on overhead space
• KLM may gate-check bags on full flights (free of charge)

Lufthansa

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 10 cm
• Weight: 8 kg per item

Key details:

• A cabin bag included in Economy fare
• Strict weight checks at some airports
• Additional cabin bag allowed in Business/First Class

Air France

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm
• Weight: 12 kg total (combined)

Good to know:

• Similar to KLM (same group)
• Combined weight applies to both items together

Transavia

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 25 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
• Weight: 10 kg (combined)

Important:

• Standard fare only includes a personal item
• To be able to take a cabin bag, you need to pay an extra fee

Vueling

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (10 kg)
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 20 cm 

Fare differences:

• Standard fare: personal item only
• You need to pick a higher fare in order to have a cabin bag

TUI

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
• Weight: 10 kg

Key points:

• The allowance can depend on the ticket and package holiday that you purchase
• Cabin bags might require additional fees

Wizz Air

Allowance:

• Cabin bag: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 20 cm
• Weight: 10 kg per item

Important:

• Very strict enforcement (like Ryanair)
• Standard fare includes a personal item only
• Priority required for cabin bag (extra fee)

What can be in your hand luggage?

Liquids & gels (EU rules)

• Max. 100 ml per container
• All liquids must fit in one transparent 1L bag
• Exceptions:
  • Medication (with proof if needed)
  • Baby food

Prohibited items

• Sharp objects (knives, scissors)
• Liquids over 100 ml
• Multiple lighters (only 1 allowed per person)

What happens if your hand luggage is refused?

If your hand luggage exceeds the limit, you'll often have to pay an additional fee of £45–60 for checked baggage. With some budget airlines, this can amount to even £85.

Frequently asked questions about hand luggage

Can I carry a backpack as hand luggage?

Yes, as long as it falls within the allowed dimensions. Note that backpacks are often wider than they appear.

Can I carry medication in my hand luggage?

Yes, medications are exempt from the liquid restrictions. Bring a doctor's letter for large quantities.

What if my hand luggage is 1cm too big?

Airlines are increasingly stringent with their rules. Even 1cm can result in additional costs. Always measure beforehand.

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