Airline Cabin Regulations

Airline cabin luggage rules vary by airline, route, aircraft type, and ticket type. 

This guide compares the most common international economy allowances so you can choose the right cabin suitcase or underseat bag and avoid unexpected airport fees.

Most airlines allow cabin luggage between 55 × 35 × 25 cm and 56 × 45 × 25 cm, although allowances vary depending on the airline and ticket type.

Underseat allowances typically range from 40 × 30 × 15cm to 45 × 36 × 20cm, with weight limits between 7kg and 12kg.

Allowances may vary depending on the type of ticket purchased and your frequent flyer status. We review airline information regularly, but rules can change at short notice. 

 

Always check directly with your airline before travelling.
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What is a cabin bag

A cabin bag is your main carry on suitcase or travel bag that travels with you in the aircraft cabin and is stored in the overhead locker.

Most airlines allow one cabin bag, and many also allow a smaller personal item that fits under the seat, depending on your ticket type.

 

Cabin bags are ideal for

  • Weekend breaks and short stays
  • Business travel
  • Travelling light to avoid hold baggage fees
  • Short haul flights with strict baggage policies
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Most commonly accepted cabin sizes

Cabin luggage allowances vary by airline, but many international carriers publish limits within the following ranges:

  • 55 × 35 × 25 cm
  • 55 × 40 × 23 cm
  • 56 × 45 × 25 cm

These measurements represent the maximum external size of the cabin bag including wheels and handles.

 

A widely accepted cabin suitcase size across many airlines is 55 × 35 × 25 cm. Choosing a case within this size can help reduce the risk of size issues when travelling with different airlines.

 

Some airlines allow slightly wider cabin bags up to 56 × 45 × 25 cm, while others enforce stricter dimensions.

 

If you travel with multiple airlines on one journey, selecting a bag within the smaller range can help avoid being asked to check your bag at the gate.
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Airline Cabin size guide

How to use this table

The table below compares: 

  • Free personal item or underseat allowance
  • Free overhead cabin bag allowance
  • Paid cabin upgrade options where applicable
  • Maximum weight limits
  • Differences by fare type

This guide focuses primarily on international economy travel. Premium cabins, flexible fares, and frequent flyer status may allow additional pieces or higher weight limits.

 

All dimensions shown are maximum external measurements and include wheels and handles.

 

The symbol “—” in the table indicates that the airline does not publish a specific dimension or weight limit for that category.

 

Airline fees and upgrade prices can change frequently. Always check your booking confirmation and airline website for the most up to date information.
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Airline A-D

Airline Ticket Type Personal Item (Underseat) Cabin Bag (Overhead) Weight
Aer LingusSaver (Europe)40 × 30 × 20 cmOptional 55 × 40 × 24 cm (paid)10kg (22lb)
Aer LingusPlus / Advantage / AerSpace40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 24 cm10kg (22lb)
Aer LingusEconomy Saver (Transatlantic)40 × 30 × 20 cmOptional 55 × 40 × 24 cm (paid)10kg (22lb)
Aer LingusEconomy Smart / Flex40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 24 cm10kg (22lb)
Aer LingusBusiness / Business Flex40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 24 cm10kg (22lb)
Aer Lingus RegionalAll fares40 × 30 × 20 cm48 × 33 × 20 cm7kg (15lb)
AeroflotAll faresPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 25 cm15kg (33lb)
Air CanadaAll fares43 × 33 × 16 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
Air EuropaAll fares40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm—
Air FranceEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm12kg (26lb)
Air FranceBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm (2 pieces)18kg combined
Air IndiaAll faresPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 20 cm10kg (22lb)
Air New ZealandAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 40 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
Alaska AirlinesAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 36 × 23 cm—
All Nippon Airways (ANA)Economy / PremiumPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 25 cm10kg (22lb)
All Nippon Airways (ANA)Business / FirstPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 25 cm (2 pieces)10kg each (20kg total)
American AirlinesEconomy / Premium45 × 35 × 20 cm56 × 36 × 23 cmNo published limit
American AirlinesBusiness / First45 × 35 × 20 cm56 × 36 × 23 cmNo published limit
AsianaEconomy Class45 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 20 cmNo published limit
AsianaBusiness Class45 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm (2 pieces)No published limit
Austrian AirlinesEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
Austrian AirlinesBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm (2 pieces)8kg each (16kg total)
British AirwaysEconomy Basic40 × 30 × 15 cmOptional 56 × 45 × 25 cm (paid)23kg combined
British AirwaysEconomy / Premium Economy40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm23kg combined
British AirwaysBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm23kg combined
Brussels AirlinesEconomy / Premium Economy40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
Brussels AirlinesBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)16kg combined
Cathay PacificEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
Cathay PacificBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)14kg combined
China EasternAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 40 × 20 cm8kg (17lb)
China SouthernAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 40 × 20 cm8kg (17lb)
Delta Air LinesAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 35 × 23 cmNo published limit

Airline E-K

Airline Ticket Type Personal Item (Underseat) Cabin Bag (Overhead) Weight
easyJetAll fares45 × 36 × 20 cmOptional 56 × 45 × 25 cm (paid)15kg (33lb)
EmiratesEconomyPersonal item allowed55 × 38 × 22 cm7kg (15lb)
EmiratesPremium EconomyPersonal item allowed55 × 38 × 22 cm10kg (22lb)
EmiratesBusiness / First45 × 35 × 20 cm55 × 38 × 22 cm7kg each (14kg total)
EtihadEconomy (excluding Basic fare)Personal item allowed56 × 36 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
EtihadBusiness / First / The ResidencePersonal item allowed56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)12kg combined
EVA AirPremium Economy / Economy40 × 30 × 10 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
EVA AirRoyal Laurel / Premium Laurel / Business40 × 30 × 10 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)7kg each (14kg total)
FinnairEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
FinnairBusiness40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm (2 pieces)12kg combined
Garuda IndonesiaAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 45 × 25 cm7kg (15lb)
Hainan AirlinesAll faresPersonal item allowed56 × 40 × 20 cm7kg (15lb)
IberiaEconomy / Premium Economy40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 40 × 25 cm10kg (22lb)
IberiaBusiness Class (Short / Medium Haul)40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 40 × 25 cm14kg combined
IberiaBusiness Class (Long Haul)40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 40 × 25 cm (2 pieces)14kg combined
IcelandairEconomy Light / Standard / FlexPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 20 cm10kg (22lb)
IcelandairSaga Premium / Flex40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm (2 pieces)10kg each (20kg total)
ITA AirwaysEconomy Light40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
ITA AirwaysEconomy40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
ITA AirwaysPremium Economy40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
ITA AirwaysBusiness40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
Japan AirlinesEconomy / PremiumPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 25 cm (2 pieces)10kg each (20kg total)
Japan AirlinesBusiness / FirstPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 25 cm (2 pieces)10kg each (20kg total)
Jet2All fares40 × 30 × 20 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm10kg (22lb)
KLMEconomy Basic40 × 30 × 15 cmOptional 55 × 35 × 25 cm (paid)—
KLMEconomy (Light / Standard / Flex)40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm12kg combined
KLMPremium Comfort40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm (2 pieces)12kg combined
KLMBusiness40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm (2 pieces)18kg combined
Korean AirEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm10kg (22lb)
Korean AirFirst / Prestige40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm (2 pieces)18kg combined

Airline L-Q

Airline Ticket Type Personal Item (Underseat) Cabin Bag (Overhead) Weight
LATAM (LanChile)Economy Cabin45 × 35 × 20 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm8kg (17lb)
LATAM (LanChile)Premium Economy / Premium Business Cabin45 × 35 × 20 cm55 × 35 × 25 cm (2 pieces)8kg each (16kg combined)
LoganairFly45 × 35 × 18 cm—6kg
LoganairFly Flex45 × 35 × 18 cm—6kg
LoganairFly Flex +45 × 35 × 18 cm—6kg
LOT Polish AirlinesEconomy Class40 × 35 × 12 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
LOT Polish AirlinesPremium Class40 × 35 × 12 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
LOT Polish AirlinesBusiness Class40 × 35 × 12 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
LufthansaEconomy / Premium Economy40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
LufthansaBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)8kg each (16kg combined)
Malaysia AirlinesEconomy ClassPersonal item allowed56 × 36 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
Malaysia AirlinesBusiness Suite / Business ClassPersonal item allowed56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)7kg each (14kg combined)
NorwegianLow Fare40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
NorwegianLow Fare+40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
NorwegianFlex40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm15kg combined
Olympic AirlinesAll faresPersonal item allowed55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
QantasEconomy / Premium48 × 34 × 23 cm + small personal item56 × 36 × 23 cm7kg (15lb)
QantasBusiness / First48 × 34 × 23 cm + small personal item56 × 36 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
Qatar AirwaysEconomy (Lite / Classic / Convenience / Comfort)Personal item allowed50 × 37 × 25 cm7kg (15lb)
Qatar AirwaysBusiness (Lite / Classic / Comfort / Elite)Personal item allowed50 × 37 × 25 cm (2 pieces)15kg combined
Qatar AirwaysFirstPersonal item allowed50 × 37 × 25 cm (2 pieces)15kg combined

Airline R-Z

Airline Ticket Type Personal Item (Underseat) Cabin Bag (Overhead) Weight
RyanairBasic / Plus40 × 30 × 20 cm——
RyanairRegular / Flexi Plus40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm10kg (22lb)
SASEconomy40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
SASBusiness40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
Singapore AirlinesEconomy Class (Value / Lite)40 × 30 × 10 cmMax combined size 115 cm (L + W + H)7kg (15lb)
Singapore AirlinesEconomy Class (Flexi / Standard)40 × 30 × 10 cmMax combined size 115 cm (L + W + H)7kg (15lb)
Singapore AirlinesPremium Economy40 × 30 × 10 cmMax combined size 115 cm (L + W + H)14kg combined
Singapore AirlinesBusiness Class40 × 30 × 10 cmMax combined size 115 cm (L + W + H)14kg combined
Singapore AirlinesSuites / First Class40 × 30 × 10 cmMax combined size 115 cm (L + W + H)14kg combined
South African AirwaysEconomy Class40 × 30 × 10 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
South African AirwaysBusiness Class40 × 30 × 10 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)16kg combined
SWISSEconomy / Premium40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
SWISSBusiness / First40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm (2 pieces)16kg combined
TAP Air PortugalAll fares40 × 30 × 15 cm55 × 40 × 22 cm—
Thai AirwaysEconomy Plus / Economy37.5 × 25 × 12.5 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm7kg (15lb)
Thai AirwaysRoyal First / Royal Silk37.5 × 25 × 12.5 cm56 × 45 × 25 cm (2 pieces)14kg combined
TUI AirwaysAll fares40 × 30 × 20 cm56 × 40 × 20 cm10kg (22lb)
Turkish AirlinesEconomy40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 40 × 23 cm8kg (17lb)
Turkish AirlinesBusiness40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 40 × 23 cm (2 pieces)16kg combined
United AirlinesEconomy43 × 25 × 22 cm56 × 35 × 23 cmNo published limit
United AirlinesBusiness / First43 × 25 × 22 cm56 × 35 × 23 cmNo published limit
VuelingAll fares40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 20 cm—
Virgin AtlanticEconomy Light / Classic / Delight40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
Virgin AtlanticPremium40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
Virgin AtlanticUpper Class40 × 30 × 15 cm56 × 36 × 23 cm (2 pieces)16kg combined
WestJetAll fares41 × 33 × 15 cm53 × 38 × 23 cm10kg (22lb)
Wizz AirWizz40 × 30 × 20 cm——
Wizz AirWizz Priority40 × 30 × 20 cm55 × 40 × 23 cm—
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Not sure which bag you need?

If you’re flying with a strict airline or want guaranteed underseat compatibility, visit our Underseater Luggage Guide and shop underseater bags at Case.

 

If you need more packing space for longer trips, explore our Check In Luggage Guide and discover check in suitcases at Case.

 

For a full breakdown of cabin sizes, visit our Suitcase Size Guide.

 

Shop cabin luggage 

Shop underseaters 
Shop check in suitcases
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Weight allowance guide

Some airlines apply a combined weight limit, while others apply a per piece limit.

 

Combined weight means the total weight of all permitted cabin items together must not exceed the stated limit. For example, if the allowance is 12kg combined, your cabin bag and personal item together must weigh 12kg or less.

 

Per piece means each individual bag may weigh up to the stated limit. For example, if the allowance is 10kg per piece and you are permitted two cabin bags, each bag can weigh up to 10kg.

 

Weight rules can vary depending on your ticket type and route, so always check your booking confirmation before travelling
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How To Measure Your Cabin Luggage

Always measure your bag at its maximum external points.

  • Height from floor to top of case with handle fully down
  • Width across the widest point
  • Depth including front pockets and shell

Airlines list dimensions as height × width × depth. Always include wheels and handles when measuring.

Trolley Spinner

Duffle 

Wheeled Brief
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Airport security rules 

Liquids

Airport security rules for liquids are changing across the UK as airports gradually introduce new 3D security scanners.

 

At many major UK airports, passengers may now carry liquid containers of up to 2 litres in their cabin luggage and may not need to remove liquids or electronics from their bags during screening.

 

However, not all airports or terminals have upgraded equipment yet.

At airports that still use traditional screening, the following rules apply:

  • Each container must hold 100ml or less
  • All containers must fit inside one clear resealable plastic bag
  • The bag must hold no more than 1 litre
  • Only one liquids bag per passenger is permitted

Exceptions may apply for essential medicines, baby milk, baby food, and liquids required for specific dietary needs. Security staff may request inspection.

 

Passengers should always check the rules for their departure airport before travelling.

 

Tip for travellers
Airport security rules are set by your departure airport, while cabin baggage limits are set by your airline. Always check both before travelling.

 

Boarding and cabin enforcement

Some airlines place cabin bags in a sizer frame at the gate. If your bag does not fit without force, it may be checked in at the gate and placed in the aircraft hold, with additional charges applied.

 

Overhead locker space is not guaranteed. On busy flights, cabin bags may be placed in the hold at no charge if lockers are full.

 

Some airlines allow duty free purchases in addition to your cabin allowance. Others count them within your personal item or cabin bag limit. 

 

Always confirm with your airline.

 

Aircraft safety

Spare lithium batteries and power banks must travel in cabin luggage and must not be placed in checked baggage. 

 

Airlines may set limits on battery watt hours.

 

Musical instruments, wedding dresses, fragile equipment, or oversized cabin items may require advance approval from the airline.
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Checking your Airport and Airline

Airport security rules and airline cabin allowances are managed separately. Security procedures are set by your departure airport, while baggage limits and boarding policies are set by your airline.

Because rules can vary depending on your airline, route, and ticket type, it is always best to confirm the latest information before travelling.

Before travelling, always check:

  • Your booking confirmation
  • Your airline’s official baggage page
  • Your departure airport’s security guidance

This helps ensure you have the most accurate and up to date information for your specific flight and avoids delays at security or boarding.

Airlines

Airports

For airline specific guidance, you can explore:

For UK departure airport security guidance, you can check:

Most airlines publish cabin baggage rules under “Baggage”, “Hand luggage”, or “Carry-on” in their website menu.
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FAQ's About Airline Cabin Regulations

Do airlines include wheels and handles in cabin luggage measurements?

Yes. Airlines measure the full external size of the bag, including wheels, handles, and any external pockets.

Always check the total dimensions of your cabin bag when comparing it to the airline’s published limits.

What size cabin bag is allowed on most airlines?

Most international airlines allow cabin luggage between 55 × 35 × 25cm and 56 × 45 × 25cm, including wheels and handles.

However, allowances vary depending on the airline, ticket type, aircraft configuration, and route. 

Passengers should always check their airline’s baggage policy before travelling.

What is the difference between a cabin bag and a personal item?

A cabin bag is your main carry-on suitcase or travel bag that is stored in the overhead locker.

A personal item is smaller and must fit under the seat in front of you. 

Examples include handbags, laptop bags, small backpacks, or underseat luggage.

Can I bring both a cabin suitcase and a personal item?

Many airlines allow one cabin bag and one personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.

However, some low-cost fares only include a personal item that fits under the seat. A cabin suitcase may require an additional fee depending on the airline and ticket type.

Does my personal item count towards the cabin weight allowance?

Often yes. Many airlines apply a combined weight limit for both your cabin bag and personal item.

For example, if the allowance is 12kg combined, the total weight of both items must not exceed that limit.

Is there a weight limit for cabin luggage?

Many airlines apply weight limits to cabin luggage, typically between 7kg and 12kg.

Some airlines apply a per bag weight limit, while others apply a combined weight limit across all cabin items. Always check your airline’s published allowance before travelling.

Are cabin luggage rules the same for every airline?

No. Cabin luggage size limits, weight allowances, and the number of permitted bags vary by airline, ticket type, route, and aircraft.

Passengers should always check their airline’s official baggage policy before travelling.

What happens if my cabin bag is too large or overweight?

If your cabin bag exceeds the permitted size or weight limits, the airline may require it to be checked into the hold at the gate.

Additional baggage fees may apply depending on the airline’s excess baggage policy.

Are soft cabin bags more flexible than hard cases?

Sometimes. Soft bags may compress slightly if they are not overpacked, which can help them fit more easily in airline baggage sizers.

Hard shell suitcases do not compress, so they must stay within the airline’s published size limits.

Do laptops and handbags count as personal items?

Yes. Laptop bags, handbags, and small backpacks are usually treated as personal items by airlines.

They must fit fully under the seat in front of you and comply with the airline’s personal item size limits.

Can I take liquids in my cabin luggage?

Yes, but liquid rules depend on the airport you are travelling from.

At many UK airports with new security scanners, passengers may carry liquid containers up to 2 litres in their cabin luggage.

At airports still using traditional screening equipment, liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed inside a single clear resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre.

Passengers should always check the rules for their departure airport before travelling.
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Discover More

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Cabin Luggage Size Guide
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Check-in Luggage Size Guide
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Underseat Luggage Size Guide
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Duffle & Holdall Travel Guide
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