What is British Airways's personal item size limit?

British Airways allows a personal item up to 40 × 30 × 15 cm.

Does British Airways's baggage allowance change by fare?

Yes. British Airways has multiple published fare or option allowances. Select the option that matches your booking when using the checker.

Do wheels and handles count in British Airways's bag dimensions?

Measure the complete packed bag, including wheels, handles and external pockets. The bag may need to fit fully inside an airport sizer.

Airline baggage guide

British Airways baggage allowance guide

Compare British Airways's personal-item, cabin and checked-baggage rules, review fare options, then test your own measurements before you reach the airport.

Personal item

40 × 30 × 15 cm

Cabin bag

56 × 45 × 25 cm

No published universal weight limit.

Checked baggage

90 × 75 × 43 cm

Max weight: 23 kg

Oversized and specialist baggage

British Airways applies separate rules to sports equipment, mobility items and other specialist baggage. Booking, fees, packaging and weight limits can vary by item.

View oversized baggage guide

Allowance by fare or option

Fare or option	Description	Personal item	Cabin bag	Checked baggage	Weight guidance
Economy \| Basic	Allowance varies by booking option.	40 × 30 × 15 cm	56 × 45 × 25 cm	Not published	Check booking
Economy \| Plus / checked-bag fare	Allowance varies by booking option.	40 × 30 × 15 cm	56 × 45 × 25 cm	90 × 75 × 43 cm	Checked: 23 kg
Premium Economy	Allowance varies by booking option.	Not listed	Not listed	90 × 75 × 43 cm	Checked: 23 kg
Business	Allowance varies by booking option.	Not listed	Not listed	90 × 75 × 43 cm	Checked: 32 kg
First	Allowance varies by booking option.	Not listed	Not listed	90 × 75 × 43 cm	Checked: 32 kg

Your selected fare or add-on may change what is included. Use the checker option that matches your booking.

Check your bag against British Airways

Before you fly with British Airways

Official website, airline identity and baggage source verified during the 31 July 2026 airline content audit. Master airline record is complete; baggage-rule rows remain separately governed.

Your British Airways allowance varies by fare or purchased option. Match the checker selection to your booking.

Airline staff may require the bag to fit completely inside a rigid airport sizer.

British Airways baggage allowance summary

Use this quick guide to compare your bag against British Airways's published cabin bag and personal item limits. The WillitFit checker is designed to help travellers spot oversize bags before they reach the gate.

Cabin bag size: 56 × 45 × 25 cm
Personal item size: 40 × 30 × 15 cm; Usually stored under the seat in front.

Before you pack

Measure the packed bag, not the empty manufacturer size. Bulging pockets, handles and wheels can affect whether the bag fits the sizer.

At the airport

Keep documents, liquids and electronics easy to reach so you do not need to open and repack your bag during security or boarding.

If your bag is close

A close result means there may be little tolerance. Use the checker, reduce soft contents where possible, and confirm the latest rules with the airline.