What is the carry-on limit for British Airways?

For British Airways, carry-on bags must not exceed 22x18x10 in (56x45x25 cm). The weight must be under 51 lbs (23 kg). Free for all ticket types, including Basic Economy.

What is the personal item size for British Airways?

The personal item size is restricted to a maximum of 18x12x6 in (40x30x15 cm) and must fit under the seat in front of you.

How much are the checked bag fees on British Airways?

For domestic or standard Economy routes, British Airways charges $35 for the 1st checked bag and $55 for the 2nd checked bag. Elite members or cardholders may qualify for waivers.

British Airways Baggage Allowance & Fees 2026: Sizer limits & Calculator

British Airways Sizer Limits Overview

Major Carrier

Personal Item

18 x 12 x 6 in

Under-seat bag. Generous weight limit of 23 kg (51 lbs) — must be able to lift it.

Carry-On Bag

22 x 18 x 10 in

Overhead cabin bag. British Airways has the most generous weight limit for carry-on in the industry: 23 kg (51 lbs) per bag.

Checked Bag

51 lbs (23 kg)

Standard checked bag weight is 23 kg. Club World/First allows 32 kg (70 lbs).

Can I Bring It? Sizer Calculator

Length18 in

Width14 in

Height (Thickness)8 in

Bag Weight15 lbs

Compliance Results for British Airways

Fail

Under-seat Personal Item

Too Large (Airline max is 18x12x6 in)

Pass

Overhead Cabin Carry-On

Fits overhead bin free

Alert

Checked Hold Bag

Oversized fee applies (Exceeds 35 linear inches)

Estimated Baggage Fee:$0

Detailed Luggage Guidelines

Here is the full breakdown of size sizer dimensions, weight caps, and carry-on/checked bag policies.

Luggage Type	Maximum Size (Inches)	Maximum Size (Metric)	Weight Cap	Standard Cost
Personal Item	18 x 12 x 6 in	40 x 30 x 15 cm	51 lbs (23 kg)	FREE (Fits under seat)
Carry-On Bag	22 x 18 x 10 in	56 x 45 x 25 cm	51 lbs (23 kg)	Free for all ticket types, including Basic Economy
1st Checked Bag	Max 35 linear inches	Max 89 linear cm	Max 51 lbs	$35 USD

Pro-Tip for British Airways Travelers

British Airways allows a total of 46 kg (102 lbs) of carry-on weight across your personal item and cabin bag (23 kg each). This is a massive cost-saver for moving heavy household items or books internationally.

Best bag selection: Choose a sturdy hardshell spinner (22x18x10") to withstand packing up to 51 lbs of weight safely.

Baggage Penalty & Excess Fees

Exceeding either sizer dimensions or weight caps will result in extra charges at check-in or boarding gates.

Fee Category	Domestic US Rate	Details
1st Checked Bag Fee	$35	Basic economy fares do not include a checked bag. Regular Economy includes 1 free bag. Adding a bag to Basic Economy costs £30 - £50 online.
2nd Checked Bag Fee	$55	Standard rate for economy passengers.
Overweight Charge	$75	Applies if the bag exceeds standard weight caps (e.g. 50 lbs / 23 kg).
Oversized Charge	$75	Applies if the bag linear dimensions exceed 35 inches.

For more details or to pre-book excess luggage allowances online, visit the official British Airways Baggage Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum baggage size sizer for British Airways in 2026?+

Your carry-on bag must measure within 22x18x10 in (including wheels and handles) to fit into British Airways's overhead bin sizers. Your personal item must fit within 18x12x6 in to go under the seat in front of you.

What happens if my cabin bag exceeds the British Airways sizer?+

If your luggage exceeds sizer limits at the boarding gate, you will be charged a gate check fee. For British Airways, this can range up to $65 and the bag will be checked into the hold.

How much does a checked bag cost on British Airways?+

A standard 50 lbs (23 kg) checked bag on British Airways costs $35 if checked in. Low-cost tickets may charge extra. Booking your bags online 24 hours prior to departure is always cheaper than purchasing at the airport counter.