Baggage Rules by UK Airline: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Packing for a trip is stressful enough without getting caught out at the airport by baggage rules you didn't know about. Whether you're heading off on a city break or a long-haul adventure, every UK airline has its own allowances, and the fees for getting it wrong can sting. We've broken down the current rules for the UK's most popular airlines so you can pack smart and travel stress-free.

British Airways

BA is one of the more generous airlines for cabin baggage. You're allowed a cabin bag (56×45×25cm) plus a personal item (40×30×15cm), with a combined cabin weight limit of 23kg. For hold luggage, it depends on your fare: Economy Basic includes no checked bag, standard Economy gets one 23kg bag, Premium Economy two bags at 23kg each, Business two at 32kg, and First class three at 32kg. Always check what's included in your fare before booking.

easyJet

easyJet's free allowance is a small underseat bag (45×36×20cm, up to 15kg). If you want a larger cabin bag in the overhead locker, up to 56×45×25cm, you'll need to pay for a seat or add a bag to your booking. It's worth factoring this cost in when comparing fares, as it can quickly close the gap with full-service carriers.

Ryanair

Ryanair's free allowance is a small personal bag (40×30×20cm) for all passengers. If you want a larger cabin bag (55×40×20cm, up to 10kg) in the overhead locker, you'll need to purchase Priority boarding in advance, otherwise your bag goes in the hold at additional cost. Booking early makes a real difference here, as Priority prices rise closer to departure.

Jet2

Jet2 is consistently one of the most passenger-friendly airlines for baggage. A 10kg hand luggage bag (56×45×25cm) is included as standard for all passengers, and you can also bring a small underseat bag (40×30×20cm). For hold luggage, you can add up to three 22kg bags per person, great for families or longer holidays.

Virgin Atlantic

Economy passengers on Virgin Atlantic can bring a cabin bag (56×36×23cm, up to 10kg) plus a personal item. Hold baggage is included depending on your ticket type - Premium, Upper Class, and some Economy fares include checked luggage as standard. Always confirm what's in your fare at the time of booking.

Big News: The 100ml Liquid Rule Has Changed at Heathrow

As of January 2026, Heathrow Airport has lifted the 100ml liquid restriction in hand luggage, thanks to new 3D CT scanning technology. You can now pack liquids in containers up to 2 litres in your carry-on when departing from Heathrow. This is an airport-specific change, check the rules for your departure airport before you pack, as restrictions may still apply elsewhere.

Travel Smarter with Case Travel

Keeping track of baggage rules across different airlines can be a real headache - especially when you're comparing flights for a group or a family. When you book with Case Travel, we'll make sure you know exactly what's included so there are no nasty surprises at the gate. Get in touch with us today to start planning your next trip.