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Airline baggage calculator

Airline baggage calculator

Check your airline's baggage allowance

Baggage costs aren't always included in the price of your plane ticket, so we've created a handy tool to help you out. Our calculator works out luggage allowances and fees for each airline, filtered by class.

Airline baggage allowance: how much can you carry?

Choose an airline to check the baggage allowance

Can't find an airline?

If the airline isn't listed, check its baggage policy on their website*

More details on baggage allowance

*All data captured from individual airline websites, correct as of October 2024. Information subject to change in line with airline updates.

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Travel insurance may cover lost personal possessions or baggage

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*All data captured from individual airline websites, correct as of October 2024. Information subject to change in line with airline updates.

How to use our airline baggage calculator

In just a few simple steps, see what you can pack with airlines like Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Ryanair:

Choose your airline

Select your airline from the dropdown to begin.

Select your ticket class

Choose your ticket class to see your baggage allowance.

Check your baggage allowance

See your cabin and checked baggage in one place.

What's the typical airline cabin baggage allowance?

Cabin baggage rules vary between airlines, but there are some common guidelines most follow. Typically, the maximum size for a cabin bag is around 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, designed to fit in standard overhead bins. However, it’s always best to check your airline’s specific allowance before travelling.

For example, budget airlines like Ryanair tend to be much stricter, often only allowing a small cabin bag (40cm x 20cm x 25cm) that must fit under the seat unless you pay extra. In contrast, full-service airlines such as British Airways are usually more generous, typically allowing both a cabin bag and a smaller personal item.

Key things to keep in mind:

Weight limits are often between 7kg and 10kg, and checks can happen at the gate
Budget airlines enforce rules strictly, including using baggage sizers
Most airlines allow a personal item (e.g., handbag or laptop bag) that fits under the seat

Knowing your bag’s size and weight in advance can help you avoid unexpected fees and delays at the airport.

Which airline has the most baggage allowance for international flights?

It depends on the airline and ticket type. Premium carriers often include more generous baggage allowances, while budget airlines keep fares lower by offering smaller limits.

Long-haul airlines like Turkish Airlines and Saudi Arabian Airlines typically allow between 23kg and 30kg per checked bag, depending on your cabin class. This is generally more generous than what’s offered on short-haul routes.

Airlines calculate baggage allowance in two main ways:

Weight concept - You get a total weight allowance that you can split across multiple bags.
Piece concept - You're allowed a set number of bags, each with its own weight limit.

Knowing which system your airline uses can make it easier to plan ahead and avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Does travel insurance cover my baggage?

Yes, it can.

Airlines’ liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is limited under the Montreal Convention, an international treaty that sets maximum compensation for international flights. This means the airline may not fully cover high-value items such as laptops, cameras, or jewellery.

Travel insurance can help by covering:

Lost or stolen baggage beyond the airline’s limits
Delayed baggage essentials, like toiletries, clothing, and other necessities
High-value items, including gadgets, jewellery, or other expensive belongings
Additional reimbursement if the airline’s compensation falls short

Having travel insurance ensures your belongings are financially protected if anything goes wrong during your trip.

How to avoid over packing

Going over your baggage limit isn’t the end of the world, but the fees can add up fast - and that’s money you’d rather keep in your holiday budget for souvenirs or ice cream at the beach. To keep your luggage under control, follow these tips:

Check your airline’s baggage allowance - Bags may be labelled “cabin size,” but limits differ by airline. For example, Ryanair’s allowance isn’t the same as EasyJet’s.
Share luggage when possible - If you’re travelling with family or friends, combining items into fewer bags can save on fees.
Plan and pack in advance - Avoid last-minute panic packing, which often leads to unnecessary items. Make a list of what you really need, and consider using a holiday checklist to stay organised.

By planning ahead and packing smart, you can avoid extra costs and travel more comfortably.

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Frequently asked questions

How can I protect my belongings when travelling?

No one wants to deal with the stress of lost luggage while on holiday, but there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the risk:

Keep a record of what you pack: Make a list or take photos of your belongings before you travel. This helps you avoid leaving items behind and makes it easier to describe your luggage if you need to report it missing.
Make your luggage easy to recognise: Add something distinctive, like a ribbon, tag, or sticker, so you can quickly spot your bag and reduce the chance of mix-ups.
Add extra security: Using a padlock can help protect your belongings and provide peace of mind while travelling.
Use a QR code tag: You can use our QR code generator to create a custom code for your luggage. If your bag goes missing, someone can scan it and get in touch with you to return your items.

Taking these small precautions can make a big difference and help you travel with confidence.

Can I make a claim if my luggage was lost or delayed by my airline?

If your checked luggage is lost or delayed, your airline is responsible - but there are a few important steps and timelines to know.

Delayed luggage: For the first 21 days, your bag is considered delayed, not lost. During this time, you’ll need to go to the airline’s baggage desk and fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) - a form that records details about your bag (such as its appearance, contents, and your contact information) so the airline can track and return it. Be as detailed as possible when describing your luggage.
Lost luggage: If your luggage hasn’t been returned after 21 days, it’s officially classed as lost.
Damaged items: If anything in your luggage is damaged, you must make a claim within 7 days and clearly describe the damage.
Compensation: Airlines usually offer a fixed compensation amount for lost or delayed luggage. This may not fully cover valuable items. Under international rules (the Montreal Convention), the maximum payout is about £1,550 - which is often less than what travel insurance might cover.