If you intend to fly with British Airways, you should be aware of their luggage regulations before packing your bags. Understanding baggage allowances can not be easy, and if you overload the baggage limits, there can be significant costs at the airport. However, British Airways has a generous baggage policy for its passengers. This guide can inform you on what you need to know about British Airways' baggage policy, what items can be carried and checked in, and what the fees for excess baggage are to save your time and money at the airport.
British Airways' baggage policy can save you money, space, and time when travelling, whether for business or leisure. We will cover all the class differences, such as experiences, economy, business, and first class, including hand luggage size limits, checked baggage weight limits, extra baggage charges, and allowance for infant baggage costs.
Many challenges arise for travellers at the airport regarding the amount of baggage being overweight, bags being the incorrect sizes, and not knowing the regulations regarding items that are permitted. Fortunately, British Airways has systems in place that show you the correct information based on your travel class and the area that you travel to and from. If you stick to these rules, then you can have these benefits:
British Airways allows you to carry one cabin bag and one personal item for free. Here are several types of luggage allowances:
Cabin Bag (Main Hand Baggage)
Size restriction: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
Weight restriction: Up to 23 kg
Must fit in the overhead compartment.
Personal Item (Laptop Bag, Purse, or Briefcase)
Size restriction: 40 x 30 x 15 cm
It Should fit under the seat.
The contents of your bag are free to hold valuables, documents, and any personal necessities. British Airways' Checked Bags Allowance enables all passengers to check bags. The airlines have different types of baggage allowance with different types of travel class and ticket type.
Allowance: One bag.
Weight Limit: 23kg.
Maximum dimensions: 90 x 75 x 43 cm.
Allowance: Two bags.
Weight Limit: 23 kg per bag.
Allowance: One bag.
Weight Limit: 32 kg per bag.
Allowance: Three bags.
Weight Limit: 32 kg per bag.
All checked luggage must fit within the size limitations of British Airways, as larger bags may incur additional costs.
If passengers have bags that are larger than the standard allowance, excess charges will apply. Charges incurred will depend on the destination of travel and the measured excess weight. Here are the general extra baggage fees that will apply for British Airways (2025):
Oversized Bag Fee: for dimensions greater than 139 cm high x 119cm wide x 135cm deep; a fee may be charged when the dimensions are oversized.
It is affordable to book any excess baggage and charges with British Airways in advance via their website, as the charges once you arrive at the airport are likely to be higher.
British Airways has special baggage allowances for infants and children.
Infants (under 2 years, no separate seat)
One cabin bag up to 23 kg
One checked bag up to 23 kg
Two free extra items (stroller, car seat, or travel cot)
Children (with their seat)
Same baggage allowance as adults in the class of travel booked
British Airways permits you to bring unique items such as sporting equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices on the flight. They will only allow you to take these items if you get prior approval and proper packaging.
The sports equipment includes items like bicycles, golf clubs, skis, and surfboards.
Must fulfill British Airways' weight and dimension standards.
Items should be carefully packaged in a protective case.
British Airways has a tracking process and a refund for lost, harmed, or delayed luggage.
Steps:
3 . Submit a claim for lost or delayed luggage within 21 days or 7 days for damaged luggage
4 . The airline will indemnify as stated in the International Air Travel Rules
British Airways has a detailed baggage policy that covers all luggage needs of travelers. If you are one-time tourism travelers or frequent international travelers, it is essential to understand the baggage policy to save yourself from the extra cost. Whether traveling economy or first class, it is necessary to understand the size, weight, and charges rules if you want to travel without charges, have fewer worries while traveling, and enjoy your flight.
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