Understanding an airline’s baggage policy can make or break the start of your journey. British Airways, one of the UK’s leading carriers, offers a fairly generous hand baggage policy that helps travellers pack light without extra charges.
But as with any airline, knowing the size restrictions, weight limits, and what can be taken onboard can save you stress, time, and money.
In 2025, British Airways continues to update its hand baggage rules to improve cabin efficiency, reduce boarding delays, and stay in line with international regulations.
Whether you’re flying for business, on a family holiday, or taking a weekend city break, knowing what British Airways allows in the cabin can help you plan your packing smarter.
This guide walks you through every aspect of British Airways’ hand baggage policy, from dimensions and allowances to costs, liquid rules, and packing tips.
It’s written for UK travellers looking for reliable, up-to-date information based on official guidelines and expert travel sources.
What is BA Hand Baggage Allowance?
British Airways offers a straightforward and accommodating cabin baggage policy across all fare types. Regardless of whether you’re flying in Economy or First Class, you are allowed:
- One main cabin bag
- One personal item
The policy is designed to support both business and leisure travellers without the added pressure of extra charges for basic hand luggage.
Main Cabin Bag Allowance
- Size limit: 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (including handles, pockets, and wheels)
- Maximum weight: 23kg
- Must fit in the overhead storage
This cabin bag can include a small suitcase or a wheeled trolley bag. It’s your primary carry-on item, perfect for short trips or those who travel light.
Personal Item Allowance
- Size limit: 40cm x 30cm x 15cm
- Maximum weight: 23kg
- Must fit under the seat in front of you
This could be a laptop bag, small backpack, handbag, or similar compact item.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Both pieces must comply with size and weight restrictions.
- British Airways does not combine weight limits; each item must be under 23kg individually.
- If your bag exceeds limits, it may be placed in the hold at the gate.
Having two cabin items gives passengers more flexibility, but following size rules is key to avoiding issues during boarding.
BA Hand Baggage Dimensions: Size & Weight Restrictions
Every airline sets its own size and weight policies to ensure smooth boarding and efficient use of cabin space. British Airways maintains consistent rules that are both competitive and clear.
BA Cabin Bag Size
- Main bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
- Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm
These dimensions include all protrusions like wheels and handles. It’s important to measure bags fully packed to avoid surprises at the airport.
BA Cabin Bag Weight
- Each item must not exceed 23kg
- Weight is measured individually; you cannot combine the total
The generous 23kg limit per item means travellers can comfortably pack essentials and still stay within guidelines, especially useful for longer journeys or work-related trips.
Measuring Tips
- Use a luggage scale to check the weight before leaving home
- Consider soft-sided bags that offer more flexibility in overhead compartments
- Pay attention to handles and wheels when measuring
British Airways may ask you to place your bag in a sizing bin at the gate, especially during peak travel times.
What Items Are Allowed in British Airways Hand Luggage?
Packing hand luggage requires understanding not just the size but also the type of items permitted. British Airways follows UK and international aviation standards, with specific guidance on common questions.
Items You Can Pack in Your Hand Baggage
- Electronics: laptops, tablets, cameras, phones
- Toiletries: under 100ml per item, in a 1-litre transparent plastic bag
- Travel documents: passports, boarding passes, insurance
- Clothing and shoes
- Snacks or light meals
- Books, magazines, and reading material
- Chargers and travel adapters
Special Allowances
- Baby essentials: milk, baby food, wipes, formula, reasonable quantities are allowed
- Medication: prescription medication is allowed, even over 100ml, with documentation
- Duty-free purchases: permitted as long as they’re sealed and purchased after security
What Not to Pack?
- Large bottles of liquids or toiletries over 100ml
- Sharp items such as knives, scissors over 6cm, or razors without safety covers
- Flammable items or aerosols beyond permitted levels
- Sporting equipment unless approved
Ensure all liquids are accessible for security checks. British Airways encourages packing electronics and documents in your personal item for quick access during boarding and in-flight.
What is BA Hand Baggage Cost?
One of the standout benefits of flying with British Airways is the inclusion of hand baggage with every ticket.
Whether you book a basic fare or a premium one, BA allows you to bring a main cabin bag and a personal item at no additional cost, provided they meet the size and weight limits.
When Charges Apply?
If you’re flying on a hand baggage only fare, your ticket won’t include any checked luggage. You can still carry both your cabin bag and personal item for free.
But if you wish to add a checked bag to your booking, costs apply depending on your route and purchase timing.
Baggage Charges Summary
- Adding a checked bag to hand baggage only fare: £25–£75 (one-way, depending on route and booking method)
- Extra checked bag: £20–£65 depending on ticket type
- Overweight bag (over 23kg): £65 per bag, per one-way trip
- Oversized bag (exceeding 90 x 75 x 43cm): £65 per item
Other Considerations
- Personal item is always free alongside your cabin bag
- Costs vary between online bookings and airport purchases, it’s cheaper to pre-pay online
- Connecting flights may follow different rules if operated by BA’s partner airlines
Understanding your fare type and route helps you avoid unexpected charges. Always check what’s included before travelling and, if needed, add baggage in advance to save money.
What Is the Liquid Policy for BA Hand Luggage?
Liquid restrictions are one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of air travel. British Airways follows the UK Government’s standard regulations for liquids in hand baggage.
General Liquid Rules
Passengers must follow the 100ml rule for all liquids, gels, and pastes carried in their hand luggage. These include:
- Toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and toothpaste
- Perfumes and deodorants
- Water or drinks (must be empty before security)
- Liquid-based cosmetics
All liquids must be stored in containers of no more than 100ml and placed inside a single, clear resealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre.
Exemptions & Special Cases
Some liquids can exceed the 100ml limit if they fall under special categories:
- Baby milk or baby food: Allowed in necessary quantities for the flight
- Liquid medication: Permitted with a prescription or doctor’s note
- Liquid dietary supplements: If medically required, with supporting documents
Practical Tips for Packing Liquids
- Use travel-size bottles
- Store all liquids in a transparent zip-lock bag
- Place the bag at the top of your hand luggage for easy access during security screening
- Consider switching to solid toiletries where possible to save space and comply with restrictions
Liquids purchased after the security check, including duty-free items, are not subject to these limits as long as they are sealed with proof of purchase.
British Airways Cabin Baggage for Children and Infants
Travelling with young children or infants requires additional planning, and British Airways offers a thoughtful and flexible hand baggage policy to support families.
Infant Baggage Allowance (Under 2 Years Old)
For infants not occupying their own seat:
- Parents are allowed one standard cabin bag for themselves
- Plus one additional baby bag (for nappies, bottles, toys) weighing up to 23kg
Children’s Baggage Allowance (2 Years and Older)
Children with their own seat receive the same hand baggage allowance as adults:
- One cabin bag (56 x 45 x 25 cm)
- One personal item (40 x 30 x 15 cm)
This allows families to spread out essential items like snacks, entertainment, and extra clothing between multiple bags.
Extra Family-Friendly Allowances
British Airways also allows two extra items for families travelling with infants or toddlers:
- Foldable pushchair
- Car seat
- Travel cot
- Baby carrier
These items can usually be taken up to the aircraft door and will be stored in the hold. They are returned either at the aircraft door upon arrival or at the baggage reclaim, depending on the airport.
Tips for Family Travel
- Pack essentials like nappies, wet wipes, formula, and changes of clothes in the baby bag
- Carry comfort toys or tablets to entertain children during the flight
- Label all bags clearly to make reclaiming items quicker
The flexibility offered by BA makes flying with young children easier, reducing stress at the airport and on board.
What Happens if Your Hand Luggage Exceeds the Limit?
While British Airways offers a fairly generous hand baggage policy, exceeding the size or weight limits can lead to delays and unexpected fees.
Understanding what happens in such situations will help you prepare and avoid last-minute issues at the airport.
Oversized or Overweight Cabin Bags
If your cabin bag exceeds the permitted 56 x 45 x 25 cm dimensions or weighs more than 23kg, the following may occur:
- Your bag will be checked into the hold at the boarding gate.
- If your ticket does not include a checked baggage allowance, you may be charged for hold baggage.
- Standard fees for oversized or overweight bags are around £65 per item.
These checks are usually performed either during bag drop at check-in or at the gate before boarding.
Gate-Checked Bags
Even if your bag is within the correct size and weight limits, you may be asked to place it in the hold on very busy flights or when overhead locker space runs out. In such cases:
- Your bag will be taken at the gate and returned via the baggage carousel upon arrival.
- There is no fee if your bag complies with BA’s hand baggage policy.
How to Avoid Penalties?
- Weigh and measure your bags before leaving for the airport.
- Use soft-sided bags that are more forgiving in overhead bins.
- Avoid last-minute stuffing that might increase weight or bulge the bag size.
- Keep essentials and valuables in your personal item in case your main bag goes into the hold.
Being proactive helps avoid unnecessary delays and costs during your journey.
Tips to Pack Your BA Hand Luggage Efficiently
Efficient packing can make the difference between a hassle-free airport experience and a stressful one. Whether you’re flying for a short break or a long business trip, making the most of your hand baggage allowance is key.
Smart Packing Techniques
- Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce creasing.
- Layer outfits with versatile items that can be worn multiple times.
- Use packing cubes or zip bags to keep items organised and easy to locate.
Use Your Personal Item Wisely
The personal item is perfect for quick-access essentials. Consider packing:
- Passport and travel documents
- Wallet or purse
- Chargers and cables
- Medications
- Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs
- A small toiletry kit (100ml items only)
Space-Saving Tips
- Pack travel-sized versions of toiletries.
- Wear your bulkiest shoes and jacket while travelling.
- Choose solid alternatives where possible, such as shampoo bars instead of liquid bottles.
Electronics and Security
- Place electronics near the top or in an easily accessible pouch for security screening.
- Keep power banks in your hand luggage as they are not allowed in hold baggage.
Efficient packing means you can travel lighter, move faster through the airport, and avoid stress while boarding.
How Does BA Handle Lost or Damaged Cabin Bags?
Although uncommon, baggage can sometimes be delayed, lost or damaged, even hand luggage that ends up being placed in the hold. British Airways has clear procedures in place for dealing with these issues.
Reporting a Lost Bag
If your bag doesn’t arrive at your destination, report it immediately at the BA help desk at the airport. You can also file a report online using your baggage claim reference number.
- You’ll receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
- BA’s tracking tool allows you to monitor the status of your lost item.
Most lost bags are located and returned within 72 hours.
Damaged Baggage Claims
If your bag arrives damaged:
- You must report it within 7 days of receipt.
- Submit a damage report online, including photos.
- BA may offer repair, replacement, or compensation depending on the extent of the damage.
Compensation & Guidelines
- Keep all receipts for emergency items purchased due to the lost bag.
- BA may reimburse you for reasonable expenses caused by delayed delivery.
To minimise risks, always keep important items like electronics, jewellery, and travel documents in your personal item, not your cabin bag.
What Are the Differences in BA Hand Luggage Rules for Domestic vs International Flights?
British Airways generally maintains the same hand baggage policies across all flights, but there are some minor considerations when flying within the UK versus internationally.
Domestic Flights
- Same baggage size and weight rules apply.
- Flights are often on smaller aircraft, so gate-checking is more common.
- Shorter security queues but same liquid and item restrictions.
Short-Haul European Flights
- Overhead space may be limited on smaller Airbus aircraft.
- Expect a higher likelihood of your cabin bag being placed in the hold, especially if boarding late.
- BA’s baggage rules remain consistent, but partner carriers on codeshare routes may differ.
Long-Haul International Flights
- Same hand baggage policy applies regardless of distance.
- Business and First class cabins offer more overhead space, making it easier to stow your bag onboard.
- Travelling with connections may introduce different policies, especially with partner airlines.
Conclusion
British Airways has earned its reputation for providing a fair and practical hand baggage policy. With clear limits, generous allowances, and family-friendly provisions, the airline supports all types of travellers, from frequent flyers to families taking a well-earned holiday.
By understanding what’s allowed, what’s restricted, and how to make the most of your cabin space, you can enjoy a smoother, stress-free journey.
From hand baggage dimensions and weight to liquid policies and packing tips, this guide has equipped you with all the essential knowledge you need before flying.
Always check your fare type, measure and weigh your bags before heading to the airport, and take advantage of online tools to manage your baggage needs efficiently. Travel smart, stay informed, and enjoy the experience with British Airways.
FAQs
Can I carry food in my hand baggage on a BA flight?
Yes, British Airways allows passengers to carry light snacks, sandwiches, and baby food in their hand baggage.
Does British Airways allow duty-free items in addition to hand baggage?
Yes, duty-free items bought after security are allowed onboard in addition to your hand baggage and personal item.
Is a backpack considered a personal item on BA?
Yes, a small backpack within the size limit (40 x 30 x 15 cm) is considered a personal item.
Are musical instruments allowed as hand baggage?
Yes, small instruments are allowed if they fit within the cabin bag dimensions. Larger instruments may need a seat or must be checked in.
Can I take my laptop separately, or should it be inside a bag?
You may carry your laptop as your personal item or include it in your cabin bag, as long as it fits within the allowed limits.