Cabin Bag Size Comparison by Airline
Hand Luggage Sizes
Compare cabin bag sizes and hand luggage allowances across major airlines to help you choose the right cabin bag and avoid unexpected baggage fees.
Not all airlines allow the same size cabin bag. Our cabin bag size comparison guide makes it easy to compare hand luggage allowances across major airlines, helping you choose the right bag and avoid unexpected baggage fees. Whether you're flying with Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, British Airways or Emirates, this guide provides a quick reference to cabin baggage dimensions and hand luggage rules.
Last Updated - 5th September 2026
Quick Cabin Bag Size Comparison
Use this quick reference table to compare free cabin bag sizes across major airlines. Always check your airline’s latest baggage policy before travelling, as allowances can vary by fare type, route and ticket option.
🏆 Which Airlines Have the Largest Cabin Bag Allowances?
Not all airlines offer the same amount of cabin baggage space. While some low-cost airlines have relatively small free allowances, several airlines provide larger cabin bags or even allow two bags as part of the ticket price. Here are some of the most generous cabin baggage allowances available.
56 × 45 × 25 cm
One of the most generous cabin bag allowances among UK airlines.
55 × 40 × 23 cm
One of the largest allowances among European airlines.
🧳 Which Airlines Have the Smallest Cabin Bag Allowances?
Some airlines have much smaller free cabin bag allowances than others, particularly on lower-cost fares. If you're travelling with hand luggage only, check the dimensions carefully — even a few centimetres can make the difference between your bag being accepted or an additional charge.
40 × 30 × 15 cm
Light fares on international flights include only a small under-seat bag, up to 3kg.
40 × 30 × 20 cm
All fares include one small personal bag that must fit under the seat.
40 × 30 × 20 cm
Free fares include a small cabin bag; a larger trolley bag requires the appropriate option.
40 × 30 × 20 cm
The basic allowance is designed for a smaller bag carried under the seat.
🎒 Which Airlines Allow Two Cabin Bags?
Some airlines allow passengers to take both a cabin bag and a separate personal item as part of their standard allowance. This can be particularly useful for weekend breaks, business trips and travellers who want to maximise their hand luggage without paying extra fees.
✓ Two bags included
Useful for longer journeys and city breaks.
💡 Top Tips for Avoiding Cabin Bag Charges
✓ Measure your bag including wheels and handles.
✓ Budget airlines often charge for larger cabin bags.
✓ Check your allowance before travelling.
✓ Soft-sided bags offer more flexibility.
✓ Always check your airline's latest baggage policy before flying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the standard cabin bag size?
There is no single standard cabin bag size used by all airlines. Allowances vary, with some airlines offering smaller free bags and others allowing larger cabin bags or two bags as part of the ticket price. Always check your airline's latest baggage policy before travelling.
2. Which airline has the largest cabin bag allowance?
Jet2 offers one of the most generous cabin bag allowances among UK airlines, allowing passengers to bring a cabin bag measuring up to 56 × 45 × 25 cm. Several full-service airlines also offer large cabin bag allowances.
3. Which airlines allow two cabin bags?
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines generally allow passengers to take a main cabin bag plus a separate personal item, although allowances can vary by fare and route.
4. Are wheels and handles included in cabin bag measurements?
Yes. Airline cabin bag dimensions include wheels, handles and any external pockets. Measuring the entire bag before travelling can help avoid unexpected baggage fees at the airport.
5. What happens if my cabin bag is too large?
If your cabin bag exceeds your airline's size limits, you may be required to check it into the hold and pay additional fees. Charges can vary considerably between airlines.
6. Which airline has the smallest free cabin bag allowance?
Some airlines offer only a small under-seat bag with their lowest fares. Pegasus Airlines allows a bag up to 40 × 30 × 15 cm on applicable fares, while Ryanair and Wizz Air allow a free small bag up to 40 × 30 × 20 cm. Allowances can vary by fare, so always check your airline's latest rules.
7. Can I take a backpack and a cabin suitcase?
This depends on the airline. Many full-service airlines allow both a cabin bag and a personal item, while some low-cost airlines charge extra for larger cabin bags. Always check your airline's baggage rules before travelling.
8. Is hand luggage the same as cabin baggage?
Yes. The terms hand luggage, cabin baggage and carry-on luggage are often used interchangeably. Airlines may use different terminology, but they generally refer to the bags passengers are permitted to take into the aircraft cabin.