Personal item, carry-on and checked bag
Airlines use three main bag types. A personal item (a small backpack or handbag) fits under the seat in front of you. A carry-on (cabin bag) goes in the overhead locker. A checked bag goes in the hold. Low-cost airlines often include only a personal item in the cheapest fare and charge for everything else, while full-service airlines usually include a carry-on and often one checked bag on international flights.
Typical size and weight limits
| Bag | Typical size | Typical weight |
|---|---|---|
| Personal item | about 40 × 30 × 15 cm | often not weighed |
| Carry-on | about 55 × 40 × 23 cm (22 × 14 × 9 in) | 7–10 kg, some airlines no limit |
| Checked (economy) | 158 cm total (length + width + height) | usually 23 kg (50 lb) |
| Checked (business) | 158 cm total | often 32 kg (70 lb) |
Typical values only. Every airline sets its own rules, so check your airline before you fly.
Many airlines do not accept single bags heavier than 32 kg because of baggage-handler safety limits. Overweight and oversize bags usually cost extra, and the fee is often higher at the airport than online.
Liquids in hand luggage
In many countries, liquids, gels and aerosols in your carry-on must be in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less, all fitting in one clear, resealable bag of about one litre. Medicines, baby milk and special dietary items are usually allowed in larger amounts, but you may need to show them. Some airports with new CT scanners have relaxed these rules, but others have not, so pack for the strictest airport on your trip.
Batteries and electronics
Spare lithium batteries and power banks must go in your carry-on, never in checked bags, because of fire risk. Most airlines allow power banks up to 100 Wh without approval and 100–160 Wh with airline approval. Many airlines now ban using or charging power banks during the flight. Laptops and phones can go in either bag, but carry-on is safer.
Items usually not allowed in the cabin
- Knives and sharp tools (small scissors may be allowed in some countries).
- Large tools, bats and sports equipment that could be used as weapons.
- Flammable items such as lighter fluid, fireworks and most aerosols other than toiletries.
- Firearms and ammunition, except in checked baggage under strict rules.
If your bag is delayed or lost
- Report it at the airline’s baggage desk before leaving the airport and get a reference number.
- Keep receipts for essentials you buy while you wait. Many airlines reimburse reasonable costs.
- Under the Montreal Convention, which covers most international flights, you must file a written claim for delayed baggage within 21 days and for damage within 7 days.
- Use a tracking tag or keep a photo of your bag and its contents to speed up claims.
Weighing your bag at home? Convert units with our kg to lbs converter, and pack with our travel checklist.
Special items
Sports equipment such as bicycles, skis and golf clubs usually travels as checked baggage, sometimes for a fixed fee, and often must be booked in advance. Musical instruments may be carried in the cabin if they fit, or you may need to buy an extra seat for larger ones like cellos. Strollers and car seats for children are usually carried free and can often be checked at the gate. Mobility aids such as wheelchairs are carried free; tell the airline in advance, especially for battery-powered devices.
Food and duty free
Solid food is generally fine in hand luggage, but many countries have strict rules on bringing meat, dairy, fruit, plants and seeds into the country, with big fines for undeclared items. Duty-free liquids bought after security are usually allowed in sealed, tamper-evident bags, but if you have a connecting flight, check that the connecting airport accepts them.
Packing tips to avoid fees
Weigh your bag at home with a luggage scale and leave 1 kg of room for souvenirs. Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane. Rolling clothes saves space, and packing cubes keep things organised. If you are close to the limit, move heavy items like books or chargers into your carry-on if its weight is not checked, and pay for bags online in advance, where fees are usually lower.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard carry-on size?
Many airlines use about 55 × 40 × 23 cm, but limits vary. Check your airline.
How heavy can a checked bag be?
Usually 23 kg (50 lb) in economy and 32 kg (70 lb) in business class.
Can I bring a power bank in checked luggage?
No. Power banks and spare lithium batteries must be in your carry-on.
Is the 100 ml liquids rule still in force?
In many airports, yes. Some have relaxed it with new scanners, so check each airport on your trip.
Data and credits: Written by ViralScopeHub. Facts checked against airline, airport, ACI World, OAG and government sources where cited. Rules change, so confirm with your airline or official sites. See our Travel hub and our credits page.