Flying with the UK’s flag carrier soon? Whether you’re hopping across to Paris or embarking on a long-haul journey to New York, understanding the British Airways baggage policy is crucial to avoid unexpected airport fees.
British Airways is generally known for having one of the more generous baggage allowances in the industry, particularly regarding carry-on limits.
However, policies can vary significantly depending on your ticket type, route, and loyalty status.
At a Glance: British Airways Baggage Allowance
Here is a quick summary of what you can bring on board and check in.
| Baggage Type | Dimensions (Max) | Weight Limit | Notes |
| Personal Item | 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 in) | Up to 23 kg (51 lbs) | Must fit under the seat in front. Guaranteed in the cabin. |
| Cabin Bag | 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 in) | Up to 23 kg (51 lbs) | Must fit in the overhead bin. May be checked on busy flights. |
| Checked Bag | 90 x 75 x 43 cm (35 x 30 x 17 in) | 23 kg or 32 kg | Allowance depends on class/route. |
British Airways Carry-On Allowance
Unlike many other airlines that restrict cabin bags to 7kg or 10kg, British Airways is famous for its heavy-duty carry-on policy.
The “Handbag” (Personal Item)
Every passenger, including those on “Basic” fares, is allowed one small personal item. This is typically a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack.
- Size: Max 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
- Guarantee: This bag is guaranteed to travel with you in the cabin.
- Identification: A yellow tag is often attached to this bag at the gate or check-in.
The Cabin Bag
In addition to your personal item, you are allowed one larger cabin bag.
- Size: Max 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including wheels and handles).
- Weight: Up to 23 kg (51 lbs). Note: You must be able to lift this into the overhead locker unassisted.
- Availability: On busy flights, overhead space fills up quickly. If the lockers are full, you may be asked to check this bag at the gate (usually free of charge), so keep essential medication and lithium batteries in your smaller personal item.
Important Note on Weight
While some specific business class pages on the BA site mention a lower combined weight, the standard policy applied across the network allows for the heavier 23kg limit per bag, provided you can lift it yourself.
British Airways Checked Baggage Policy
Your checked luggage allowance depends entirely on your ticket class and route. Always check your specific booking confirmation (“Manage My Booking”) for the exact allowance.
Standard Allowances by Class
- Economy Basic (Hand Baggage Only): 0 free checked bags. You must pay to add a bag.
- Economy Standard (Euro Traveller/World Traveller): 1 bag x 23 kg (51 lbs).
- Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus): 2 bags x 23 kg (51 lbs) each.
- Business (Club Europe/Club World): 2 bags x 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
- First Class: 3 bags x 32 kg (70 lbs) each.
Route-Specific Exceptions
If you are flying Economy to specific destinations, BA often increases the allowance to 2 bags x 23 kg. Common routes with this exception include flights to/from:
- Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria
- India to USA/Canada (connecting)
- Japan (from Europe)
- Saudi Arabia and Kuwait
Infants and Children
- Infants (under 2, on lap): Allowed one 23 kg checked bag (unless on a Basic fare). You can also check two extras for free, such as a collapsible stroller (pushchair), car seat, or travel cot.
- Children (2-11): Same allowance as an adult ticket.
Excess Baggage Fees
If your bag is heavier or larger than your allowance, you will face additional charges.
Overweight Bags
If your bag weighs between 23 kg and 32 kg, you will be charged a heavy bag fee.
- Fee: £65 / $100 / €75 per bag, one way.
- Hard Limit: For health and safety reasons, British Airways will not accept any single bag weighing more than 32 kg (70 lbs). These must be shipped as cargo.
Oversized Bags
Bags larger than standard dimensions but within 190 x 75 x 65 cm are considered “out-of-gauge.”
- These must be dropped off at the specific out-of-gauge bag drop at least 90 minutes before departure.
- No extra fee applies if it fits within your weight allowance, but early arrival is essential.
Purchasing Extra Bags
You can check up to 10 extra bags per person.
- Online vs. Airport: Always buy extra allowance online in advance. Airport rates are significantly higher (e.g., £65 at the airport vs. £36 online).
- Payment: You can use Avios points to pay for extra bags online, but not at the airport.
- Cashless Airports: Most airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, do not accept cash for baggage fees.
Special Items: Sports and Music
British Airways is relatively accommodating regarding special equipment, provided you plan ahead.
Musical Instruments
- Small (Violins/Flutes): Can be carried as your larger cabin bag if within 80 cm length.
- Medium (Guitars/Cellos): If you don’t want to check it, you can buy an extra seat for instruments between 80-140 cm. This must be booked 48 hours in advance by calling BA directly.
- Large: Must be checked. Hard cases are mandatory.
Sports Equipment
- Golf Clubs & Skis: count toward your checked allowance. However, because they are bulky, you must notify BA at least 72 hours before flying and use the out-of-gauge drop-off.
- Bikes: Must be in a protective box/bag (max 190 cm length). Counts as one checked bag.
- Prohibited: Electric skateboards and balance boards (due to lithium batteries) are banned from both cabin and hold.
Frequent Flyer Benefits
Loyalty pays off when it comes to luggage. If you are a member of the Executive Club or oneworld alliance, you get extra perks:
- Silver / oneworld Sapphire:
- Economy: Total allowance increases to 2 bags x 32 kg.
- Business/First: Standard allowance applies.
- Gold / oneworld Emerald:
- Economy/Premium: Total allowance increases to 2 bags x 32 kg (or more depending on specific route).
- Business: Total allowance increases to 3 bags x 32 kg.
- First: Total allowance increases to 4 bags x 32 kg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pool my baggage allowance with my partner?
No. British Airways does not allow baggage pooling. Each bag must be assigned to an individual passenger and fall within their specific weight limit.
You cannot split 30kg across two 15kg bags if the limit is one 23kg bag.
What happens if my flight is operated by a partner airline?
If your flight is a codeshare (e.g., booked via BA but flown by American Airlines or Iberia), the baggage policy of the operating airline usually applies.
However, if your itinerary includes connecting flights, the policy of the airline operating the longest flight generally dictates the allowance. Always check your ticket confirmation.
Can I take a suit carrier as hand luggage?
Yes, a suit carrier can count as your main cabin bag, provided it fits within the 56 x 45 x 25 cm dimensions.
How strictly does BA enforce carry-on size?
At hub airports like Heathrow, enforcement is strict. If your bag doesn’t fit in the sizing gauge, it must be checked. If you are on a “Basic” fare and your bag is oversized, you will be charged a gate-check fee.
Can I take my CPAP machine?
Yes. Medical equipment like CPAP machines can be brought on board in addition to your standard hand luggage allowance.
You should carry a medical letter, and it’s recommended to pack it as hand luggage to ensure it doesn’t get lost.
Final Thought
Before you zip up your suitcase, we recommend logging into Manage My Booking on the British Airways website to confirm your exact allowance for your specific trip.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
