Do you know what can ruin even the best-planned trip before you've even boarded? The queue at the check-in desk, an irritated member of staff brandishing a scale, and you – with a suitcase two kilograms too heavy and the face of someone who has just realised the holiday is starting with an unplanned expense. Baggage rules are one of those things most of us treat half-heartedly – until the moment they stop being an abstraction and become a concrete fee charged just before the gate.
And the scale of the phenomenon is enormous. According to data from IdeaWorksCompany – a firm specialising in the analysis of airlines' ancillary revenue – carriers' global income from baggage fees has in recent years exceeded 30 billion dollars a year. In Europe alone, low-cost airlines generate as much as a dozen or so percent of their total revenue precisely from additional fees, of which baggage makes up the largest share. It's estimated that one in four passengers on European low-cost routes pays extra for baggage after buying the ticket – often because they didn't read the carrier's terms carefully or didn't check the current limits before the flight.
The problem doesn't concern only budget travellers flying Ryanair with one bag on their back. Baggage rules differ between traditional and low-cost airlines, between ticket classes, routes, and even the direction of the flight. What you're allowed to take on board on a short European route may turn out to be non-compliant on a transatlantic connection operated by another carrier under a code-share agreement. The details matter absolutely crucially here.
This article was created so that you'll never again stand helplessly by the scale at the airport. You'll find here everything you need to know about how airlines measure baggage – what tools they use, where and when they carry out the check, and what exactly the staff check. We'll go through the limits and requirements of the biggest carriers – from Ryanair through LOT to Emirates. You'll learn in which specific situations fees are charged, how to avoid them effectively, and what rights you have as a passenger when something goes wrong. At the end we'll also take a look at where baggage rules are heading in the coming years – because the trend isn't optimistic for those who like to pack a lot.
So before you buy your next plane ticket, read this once, but properly – and save yourself the nerves, time and money at the very first check-in.
The basic types of baggage in aviation
Hand baggage – what you can really take into the cabin
Hand baggage is everything a passenger takes with them into the aircraft cabin and keeps for the whole duration of the flight – either under the seat in front of them or in the overhead locker. Sounds simple, but in practice the first terminological trap appears at this very stage, one that many travellers fall into.
Most airlines distinguish between two separate categories of cabin baggage, which are often confused or used interchangeably – and shouldn't be. The first of them is the small personal item (also called the underseat bag). It's a handbag, a small backpack, a laptop bag or a similar small item that must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. Its dimensions are strictly defined by each airline individually and usually hover around 40 x 30 x 20 cm, though these numbers differ between carriers. The key thing is that this type of baggage is in the vast majority of cases free – even on the cheapest fares.
The second category is the proper cabin bag (cabin baggage, hand luggage, carry-on) – a larger bag or suitcase that goes into the locker above the seat. It's precisely over this baggage that the biggest battles are fought between passengers and airlines. Its dimensions are usually significantly larger – as standard up to 55–56 cm in length – but access to it may depend on the ticket fare, the passenger's status or the purchase of an additional option. In the case of low-cost airlines such as Ryanair or Wizz Air, taking a larger cabin bag into the cabin requires buying the appropriate fare or a "priority boarding" option. Passengers without this option may be required to hand over the larger bag to the hold already at the gate – for free or for a fee, depending on the carrier and the situation.
The distinction between these two categories has enormous practical significance. If you plan to travel with hand baggage only, you need to know exactly which category your bag falls into according to the rules of the specific airline – and whether your ticket fare gives you the right to take it into the cabin at all. If you're not sure how many bags you're entitled to, it's worth reading our separate guide on whether you can have two carry-on bags.
Checked baggage – when the suitcase travels separately
Checked baggage, also called hold or registered baggage, is baggage that the passenger hands over at the check-in desk and then collects from the baggage belt after arrival. For the whole flight it's in the aircraft's hold, inaccessible to passengers. It's precisely this type of baggage that's responsible for most delays, lost items and complaints – but also for a significant part of airlines' revenue from additional fees.
The process of checking in hold baggage always looks the same: the passenger reports to the check-in desk (or a self-service kiosk), the baggage is weighed on a scale, an employee (or an automatic machine) sticks on a label with a barcode identifying the flight and the passenger, and the suitcase goes onto the belt and disappears behind the curtain. From that moment the baggage is sorted by a system of conveyor belts, loaded into the appropriate container and placed in the aircraft's hold. Modern airports equipped with an RFID system allow baggage to be tracked almost in real time – although this technology isn't yet widespread.
The key practical issue concerns when checked baggage is included in the ticket price and when it constitutes a separate cost. The answer depends above all on the airline's business model and the fare purchased. In the case of traditional (network) carriers such as LOT, Lufthansa, Air France or KLM, checked baggage is usually included in the ticket price – at least in the standard economy fare. Passengers in higher classes have the right to a greater number of pieces or higher weight limits.
The situation looks completely different in the case of low-cost airlines – Ryanair, Wizz Air, easyJet or Vueling. Here the ticket price covers as a rule only the right to transport the passenger and possibly a small personal item. Checked baggage is a paid extra that has to be bought separately – and the earlier we do it, the less we pay. The surcharge for checked baggage bought directly at the airport is usually several times higher than the same option bought at the moment of booking or a few weeks before the flight. It's a deliberate manoeuvre – airlines want you to plan ahead and not leave the decision until the last minute.
It's also worth remembering that even in traditional airlines more and more "light" or "basic" fares are appearing which – like in low-cost airlines – exclude free checked baggage. When buying a ticket, always check what exactly a given fare includes, and not just its name.
Special baggage – when a suitcase isn't enough
Not every traveller fits the "small bag + 23 kg suitcase" scheme. For those who travel with a bicycle, skis, a guitar or a dog, airlines have created the category of special baggage – with separate rules, dimensions, procedures and, of course, fees.
Sports equipment is one of the most frequently transported types of special baggage. Skis and snowboards are transported in special covers or hard cases and almost always require a separate booking and a surcharge – usually from 20 to as much as 150 euros depending on the airline and the destination. A bicycle is a more serious matter: it must be appropriately packed (most often in a box or a dedicated bike cover), and its weight and dimensions may exceed the standard limits for checked baggage, which involves a higher fee. Surfboards, kayaks or diving equipment (including tanks – with certain exceptions regarding dangerous materials) also require prior notification and a separate fee. The key rule: always book sports baggage in advance and directly through the airline – accepting it at the airport without a prior booking may be impossible or very expensive.
Prams and child car seats are a category in which airlines are relatively liberal. Most carriers accept a pram free of charge as an additional item of baggage, regardless of the package purchased. A child car seat is also usually transported free of charge or for a symbolic fee. Prams can be handed over at the check-in desk or – in the case of smaller, folding models – at the gate itself, from where they go to the hold and are returned directly on leaving the aircraft. The details differ between airlines, however, so it's worth checking the rules of the specific carrier before you head to the airport with the whole family's equipment.
Musical instruments are a topic that can give musicians a headache. Smaller instruments – violins, flutes, ukuleles – can usually be taken into the cabin as hand baggage, provided they fit within the dimension limit. An acoustic or classical guitar is already a challenge: its case is usually too big to fit in the overhead locker, and too valuable and delicate to check as hold baggage without stress. Some airlines allow the purchase of a separate seat for the instrument (seat for instrument) – then the guitar travels strapped in with a seatbelt next to the passenger. Large instruments, such as a cello, double bass or tuba, require individual arrangements with the airline, often well in advance of the flight date. Costs and possibilities vary greatly here – before travelling with an instrument it's always worth contacting the carrier directly.
Animals in the cabin and in the hold are a separate and extensive topic with their own regulations. Small dogs and cats – up to around 8 kg together with the carrier – can travel in the cabin if the airline allows it and if the passenger notifies and pays for this option in advance. The carrier must fit under the seat and meet specific dimensions. Larger animals travel in a special cargo compartment – air-conditioned and appropriately ventilated, though the journey itself can be stressful for the animal. Some airlines don't accept animals in the cabin at all (e.g. Ryanair), others have restrictions regarding breeds (especially brachycephalic, i.e. short-nosed, breeds such as bulldogs or pugs, which are more prone to breathing problems during the flight). Veterinary regulations and documentation (chip, animal passport, vaccinations) are a separate matter, dependent on the destination country. Planning a trip with an animal requires considerably more time and attention than a standard booking.
Useful travel accessories from Peli
How airlines measure baggage
Measuring dimensions – how it works in practice
Before a suitcase reaches the scale, it has to pass a dimension check. And here begins the first lesson in airline mathematics that most passengers have never studied. Airlines use two different methods of determining the permitted size of baggage – and it's worth knowing how they differ before you stand at the check-in desk.
The simplest method is giving three dimensions separately: length, width and height. For example "55 x 40 x 20 cm" – a classic limit for cabin baggage at many carriers. Here the matter is simple: each of your bag's dimensions must fit within the given limit. The problem appears when the bag is soft and deforms under pressure – more on that in a moment.
The second method is so-called linear dimensions (linear inches/centimeters), that is the sum of all three dimensions: length + width + height. This method is especially popular for determining limits for checked baggage on transatlantic routes. For example, a limit of "158 linear cm" means that the sum of all three sides of the suitcase can't exceed 158 cm – but the suitcase itself can have various proportions, as long as the sum adds up. A suitcase of 70 x 50 x 30 cm (150 cm together) and one of 80 x 45 x 30 cm (155 cm together) will both fit within this limit, even though they're built completely differently.
As for units of measurement, European airlines use exclusively centimetres, whereas American carriers and some Asian ones give dimensions in inches. One inch is 2.54 cm – simple maths, but it's worth keeping in mind when you check an airline's terms and suddenly see "22 x 14 x 9 inches" instead of centimetres. That's the equivalent of roughly 56 x 36 x 23 cm, the standard carry-on limit of many carriers.
A separate matter is dimensional tolerances – and here we enter a zone that airlines don't officially talk about, but which exists in practice. Technically speaking, if your suitcase is 57 cm instead of the permitted 55 cm, it doesn't fit within the limit. In reality, however, staff don't put a ruler to every suitcase at the check-in desk. Many hard suitcases sold as "cabin" have, when folded or under the pressure of the wheels, dimensions slightly exceeding the limits. Suitcase manufacturers often give dimensions without wheels and handles, which can give a difference of 2 to 5 cm. An unofficial margin of tolerance exists, but it's unpredictable – it depends on the carrier, the airport, the time and the flight's load. It should never be factored into a packing strategy. For more on this, see our guide on hard or soft luggage and what to choose.
Baggage sizers – the metal judge at the gate
The baggage sizer, also called a gauge, is one of those devices that passengers pass every day at airports, often without realising its function – until the moment an airline employee gestures towards it and asks you to test your suitcase.
The sizer is a metal or plastic frame with strictly defined internal dimensions, corresponding to the maximum permitted size of a given carrier's cabin baggage. Its operation is painfully simple: you put the suitcase inside and if it goes in freely – the baggage is within the norm. If it doesn't go in, or goes in only after firm pressure – it exceeds the limit. No centimetres, no discussions, no interpretation. The metal frame says it all.
Baggage sizers can be found in several places at the airport. Most often they stand by the check-in desks of a given airline – usually placed against the counter or mounted on a stand beside it. The second typical point is the gate, where the check is already final and there's no room for negotiation – the baggage either fits in the sizer or it goes in the hold. Some airports also place sizers in publicly accessible areas before check-in, at the entrance to the departures hall, so that you can check your suitcase before you reach the queue. This is an increasingly popular practice, especially at airports serving large numbers of low-cost airline passengers.
The key thing few passengers know: sizers differ from one another – and not only because different airlines have different limits. It happens that sizers of the same airline at different airports have slightly different internal dimensions due to different frame manufacturers or installation errors. It's rare, but it happens. More important is that the sizer measures the real external dimensions of the baggage including all protruding elements – wheels, handles, zips, external pockets. A suitcase that "on paper" fits within the 55 x 40 x 20 cm limit may not fit in the sizer, because the manufacturer gave the dimensions without wheels, which add another 3–4 cm to the height.
Soft bags and backpacks have a certain advantage here over hard suitcases – they can be squeezed and deformed to fit into the sizer. A hard shell doesn't have this flexibility. On the other hand, a soft bag packed to the brim may be harder to push in than a sensibly packed hard suitcase.
Weighing baggage – what the scale really measures
Weighing baggage is the second element of the check – alongside dimensions – that decides whether you fly without surcharges or not. And although it seems trivially simple, it hides a few details worth attention.
At the check-in desk, checked baggage is weighed routinely and without exception. The suitcase goes onto a belt or platform scale, and the result is visible both to the employee and the passenger. Scales used at airports are certified and regularly calibrated – it's a regulatory requirement. If the scale shows 23.4 kg and the limit is 23 kg, officially you have excess weight. How it'll be treated – that already depends on the carrier and the staff.
The check of hand baggage at the gate looks different. Some airlines have equipped their gates with special scales or hook (handheld) scales, with which staff can check the weight of a cabin bag directly at the entrance to the aircraft. Ryanair and Wizz Air are known for applying random weight checks of hand baggage precisely at the gate, especially on full flights, when the overhead lockers may be insufficient. The check at the gate is often stricter than at the check-in desk – staff then have very limited time and zero room for negotiation.
It's worth knowing that modern automatic baggage check-in systems (self-service bag drop) measure the weight automatically the moment you place the suitcase on the belt. The system compares the result with your booking and – if it detects excess weight or a discrepancy – blocks the check-in and directs you to a desk with staff. Such systems are increasingly common at large airports and are mercilessly precise.
Finally: what exactly is weighed? The scale measures everything – the suitcase, its contents, the locks, the wheels, the handles and the stuck-on baggage label. The label weighs a few grams, the wheels on a large suitcase are already 300–600 g. It's worth remembering this when packing "right up to the limit" – a margin of 200–300 g can be crucial.
When and where the baggage check takes place
The baggage check isn't a one-off event – it's a process spread across several stages of the journey, each of which is governed by slightly different rules.
Online check-in doesn't involve any physical baggage check – the passenger merely declares that they know and respect the carrier's rules. The airline has no way to check what you actually pack into your bag over the internet. However, online check-in doesn't release you from the check at the airport – if you have checked baggage to hand over, you still have to go to the bag drop desk, where the suitcase will be weighed.
The check at the check-in desk is the first physical checkpoint. Here checked baggage is examined – its weight, and sometimes the dimensions, if the suitcase looks oversized. Hand baggage is checked here less often and less rigorously – staff have a lot of work and usually don't weigh every cabin bag at check-in.
The check at the gate (gate check) is the moment when many people experience an unpleasant surprise. Low-cost airlines especially increasingly carry out systematic or random checks of cabin baggage here – both dimensional (a sizer at the gate) and weight checks. If at this stage it turns out that your bag is too big or too heavy, you have two options: pay the fee for checking the baggage into the hold (usually the highest possible rate, because it's the airport one) or pull out some items and literally fit within the limit here and now, in front of all the passengers in the queue. This is not a situation you want to find yourself in.
Random checks during boarding – some airlines apply systems in which at the gate part of the passengers are randomly selected for a baggage check. It's not a matter of behaviour or the look of the bag – it's an algorithm or an employee's decision. This means that even if you've passed through the airport ten times with the same bag without a check, the eleventh time may be different.
How airport staff interpret the rules – the grey zone exists
Airlines' terms are written in black and white, but their application in practice tends to be much more flexible – or, conversely, more rigorous – than one might expect after reading the document on the carrier's website. The grey zone exists and is much wider than airlines officially admit.
Airport staff work under the pressure of time, results and the mood of the day. Early morning flights, when the airport is empty and the staff are rested and calm, are governed by different rules than a packed flight in the middle of the August peak, when every kilogram in the hold and every centimetre in the locker matters. At numerous European airports passengers observe that on a morning flight with a slightly oversized bag the employee merely nods, while the same baggage at 5 pm on a Friday generates a fee at the gate.
The culture of the given airline also matters. Ryanair and Wizz Air are known for relatively rigorous enforcement of baggage rules – it's part of their business model, in which ancillary fees constitute a key source of revenue. LOT or Lufthansa have somewhat more leeway in their approach to cabin baggage, though that's not an absolute rule. Ground handling at many airports is hired from external companies that serve several airlines at once – and their approach may differ depending on which carrier commissioned the flight.
It's also worth knowing that the load of a specific flight has a direct impact on how rigorous the cabin baggage check is. When the aircraft is full and it's known that not all bags will fit in the lockers, staff at the gate get instructions to actively send baggage to the hold – even if it formally fits within the limit. When the flight is 60% full, nobody will insist on the sizer.
This doesn't, of course, mean it's worth speculating on the staff's tolerance and consciously packing too much. The grey zone works both ways – and it can surprise you just as unpleasantly when, on that particular day, an employee decides to stick to the rules down to the millimetre. The only effective strategy is the one in which you don't need anyone's leniency at the gate.
Peli travel suitcases
Dimensions and weight limits – an overview of popular airlines
European low-cost airlines – where baggage costs the most
European low-cost airlines revolutionised the way we fly – and the way we pay for baggage. It's precisely here that the rules are the most complicated, the most frequently changed and the most painfully enforced. If you fly around Europe with low-cost airlines, knowing their baggage policy is an absolute basic.
Ryanair operates one of the most elaborate baggage systems among European low-cost carriers. The basic fare (without the Priority option) entitles the passenger to take only one small personal bag with maximum dimensions of 40 x 20 x 25 cm, which must fit under the seat. Sounds modest – and it is modest. If you want to take a larger bag into the cabin (up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm, up to 10 kg), you have to buy the Priority Boarding option or choose a higher fare. The Priority option is available for an additional fee and allows boarding in the first group of passengers – which matters enormously on busy flights, when the overhead lockers fill up in a flash. Checked baggage with Ryanair is a separate fee: as standard 20 kg, with the possibility of buying up to 25 or 32 kg. Prices depend on the route and the moment of purchase – cheapest at booking, most expensive at the airport. Ryanair regularly updates its price lists and baggage policy, which is why it's always worth checking the current terms directly on the carrier's website before buying a ticket. We've gathered the practical details in our guide on Ryanair cabin baggage dimensions and tips.
Wizz Air works on a similar principle, though with certain differences in the details. The cheapest Basic fare entitles you only to a small bag with dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20 cm, fitting under the seat. Cabin baggage (up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm, up to 10 kg) is available to holders of the Wizz Go fare and above, or after buying the additional WIZZ Priority privilege. Checked baggage – like at Ryanair – is paid for separately, usually in variants of 20, 26 or 32 kg. Wizz Air also has an extensive Wizz Discount Club programme, within which members get lower prices for baggage. Limits and prices may differ depending on the route and the period, so here too it's obligatory to check the carrier's current price list.
easyJet stands out against the competition with a somewhat more passenger-friendly approach to cabin baggage. As standard, every passenger – regardless of fare – has the right to one cabin bag with dimensions up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm, fitting under the seat. Baggage for the overhead locker (up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, up to 15 kg) is available to passengers on the FLEXI fare or those who have bought the Hands Free or Up Front option. Checked baggage is paid for and available in variants of 15, 23 and 26 kg. easyJet also allows the purchase of a "hold bag" option for a whole group travelling on one booking, which tends to be worthwhile for family trips. As with the other airlines, detailed price lists and possible promotions are worth verifying directly with the carrier – this policy is regularly updated.
Network and traditional airlines – more baggage, but not always free
Traditional carriers usually offer more generous baggage limits, especially in the case of higher fares or travel classes. But here too the devil is in the details – especially with the cheapest economy tickets.
LOT Polish Airlines applies a baggage policy based on the ticket class and the chosen fare. In economy class several fares are available – from the cheapest (Saver), which may not include free checked baggage, through Standard and Flex, to the full fare with full allowance. Hand baggage in economy class is as standard one piece up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm and up to 8 kg, plus a small personal item. Checked baggage depends on the fare – usually one piece up to 23 kg in standard fares. Business class passengers have the right to 2 pieces of checked baggage of 32 kg each. LOT also offers the possibility of buying additional baggage before the flight, which is cheaper than a surcharge at the airport. The detailed terms of each fare are available on LOT's website and it's worth checking them before purchase, as they may change.
Lufthansa is one of the carriers that applies both a weight system and a piece system, depending on the direction of the flight. On European routes there's usually one piece of checked baggage up to 23 kg in economy class (on selected fares). On long-haul routes the piece system is applied: in economy class most often one or two pieces up to 23 kg, in business class two pieces up to 32 kg. Hand baggage is one piece up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm and up to 8 kg. Lufthansa offers several fares in each class (Light, Classic, Flex), with the cheapest Light fare in economy class possibly not including free checked baggage even on long-haul routes. Here – just as everywhere – it's obligatory to check the details of the specific booking.
British Airways applies a policy dependent on the fare and route. On European routes the cheapest Basic fare doesn't include checked baggage. On long-haul routes standard economy fares usually include one piece up to 23 kg. Hand baggage in economy class is one cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm (with no weight limit in practice, though formally a reasonable weight applies). Business class (Club World) offers two pieces up to 32 kg in checked baggage.
Air France and KLM – as airlines operating within the same Air France-KLM group – have a similar baggage policy. On the cheapest economy fare (Light) on European routes checked baggage is paid for. On higher fares – Economy Standard and Flex – one piece up to 23 kg is usually included. On long-haul routes the limits are more generous. Both airlines offer the possibility of buying additional baggage online, before the flight, which is cheaper than the airport fee.
Long-haul and non-European airlines – there the rules are different
On long-haul flights the baggage policy becomes even more varied. Carriers from the Middle East, Asia and North America operate according to their own standards, which can differ significantly from what you're used to on European routes.
Emirates is known for one of the most generous baggage policies in the industry. In economy class the standard limit is usually 25 or 30 kg of checked baggage (depending on the route and fare), and business class passengers can count on 40 kg, with first class even 50 kg. Emirates applies a weight system (weight concept) rather than a piece one, which means that what matters is the total weight of the baggage, not the number of pieces (though dimension limits also apply). Hand baggage is 7 kg in economy class and 10 kg in business class. Emirates Skywards – the airline's loyalty programme – gives the possibility of increasing the allowance for higher statuses.
Qatar Airways offers similarly attractive limits. Economy class is usually 23 kg of checked baggage, business – 30 kg (in some configurations 2 x 32 kg in the piece system). Hand baggage: 7 kg in economy, 15 kg in business. Qatar Airways applies a mixed system – on some routes a weight one, on others a piece one – which tends to be confusing. The details depend on the specific route and fare.
Turkish Airlines is known for a relatively liberal baggage policy for a carrier serving such a wide range of routes. Economy class on international routes is as standard 23–30 kg (depending on the route), business – 30–40 kg. Hand baggage up to 8 kg. Turkish Airlines applies a weight system on most routes, which is favourable for passengers with one large suitcase instead of many small ones.
American carriers – American Airlines, Delta, United – operate almost exclusively on a piece system (piece concept): what counts is the number of pieces of baggage, and each can weigh up to 23 kg (50 pounds) on domestic and economy international routes. On domestic routes in the USA the first and often the second piece of checked baggage is paid for even in economy class – which is a significant difference from European or Middle Eastern standards. On transatlantic routes the economy standard usually includes one free piece, and higher classes – two or three. Cabin baggage is subject to dimension limits (usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, i.e. about 56 x 36 x 23 cm), with weight limits for cabin baggage being enforced less often in the USA than in Europe.
An important general rule for connecting flights and multi-segment routes: if your ticket includes a flight by several different airlines (for example one carrier to a European hub, and from there Emirates to Dubai), the baggage policy of the carrier operating the given segment or the carrier issuing the ticket usually applies – depending on the terms of the agreement. This can cause situations in which on one segment you have 30 kg, and on another only 23 kg. Always check the rules for each segment of the journey separately.
A practical comparison table
Below is a summary of the basic baggage limits of selected airlines for the standard economy class fare. The data is indicative – limits may differ depending on the fare, route and flight date. Always verify the current terms directly with the carrier before buying a ticket.
| Airline | Small personal bag | Cabin bag (dimensions / weight) | Checked baggage (standard economy) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm / 10 kg (only with Priority) | 20 kg (paid) | Without Priority only a small bag in the cabin |
| Wizz Air | 40 x 30 x 20 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm / 10 kg (only with Priority) | 20–32 kg (paid) | Wizz Discount Club lowers baggage prices |
| easyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm | 56 x 45 x 25 cm / 15 kg (only FLEXI/Up Front) | 15–26 kg (paid) | An under-seat bag for everyone as standard |
| LOT Polish Airlines | yes (small item) | 55 x 40 x 23 cm / 8 kg | 23 kg (depending on fare) | The Saver fare may not include checked baggage |
| Lufthansa | yes (small item) | 55 x 40 x 23 cm / 8 kg | 23 kg (Light fare – paid) | Piece system on long-haul routes |
| British Airways | yes (small item) | 56 x 45 x 25 cm | 23 kg (Basic fare – paid) | No cabin baggage weight limit in practice |
| Air France / KLM | yes (small item) | 55 x 35 x 25 cm / 12 kg | 23 kg (Light fare – paid) | Similar policy for both group carriers |
| Emirates | yes (small item) | 55 x 38 x 20 cm / 7 kg | 25–30 kg (weight system) | One of the most generous policies in the industry |
| Qatar Airways | yes (small item) | 50 x 37 x 25 cm / 7 kg | 23 kg | Mix of weight and piece systems |
| Turkish Airlines | yes (small item) | 55 x 40 x 23 cm / 8 kg | 23–30 kg (depending on route) | Weight system on most routes |
| American Airlines | yes (small item) | 56 x 36 x 23 cm | 1 piece up to 23 kg (paid on domestic routes) | Piece system; baggage fees on domestic routes |
| Delta Air Lines | yes (small item) | 56 x 35 x 23 cm | 1 piece up to 23 kg (paid on domestic routes) | Piece system; like AA and United |
Peli Air cabin suitcases
When airlines charge fees – all the cases
Baggage fees don't appear by chance. They result from very precise rules that concern both dimensions and weight, the number of pieces and the moment the baggage service is purchased. In practice it's precisely here that passengers are most often surprised by additional costs, because even small deviations from the rules can change the price of the trip.
Oversized baggage
Oversized baggage is one of the most frequent causes of additional fees at the airport. It concerns both cabin and checked baggage that exceeds the permitted limits of length, width or height set by the carrier.
When a suitcase is too big for the cabin gauge, the passenger loses the ability to bring it on board. Airport staff check the dimensions using special control frames. If the baggage doesn't fit in the sizer, it's reclassified as checked baggage, and in many cases requires an additional fee.
In a situation where the baggage is set aside at the gate (gate bag), it most often goes to the aircraft's hold. Sometimes this happens free of charge, especially when the cabin is full, but only when the baggage meets the basic dimensional conditions. If, however, it's too big or non-compliant with the fare's rules, a fee may be charged as for checked baggage, often at the airport rate.
Surcharges for oversized checked baggage are usually among the highest in the entire fee structure. This results from the need for manual transport, special placement in the hold and limited space. The greater the exceeding of the dimensions, the higher the cost, and in extreme cases the baggage may be rejected or sent as cargo.
Overweight baggage
Overweight baggage appears when the suitcase fits within the dimensions but exceeds the weight limit set by the airline. It's one of the most costly "hidden" fees, because even a small exceeding can generate additional costs.
Fees for each overweight kilogram are charged according to rates set by the carrier. In practice this means that each additional kilogram can have a high unit price, especially in low-cost airlines. It's often more worthwhile to buy additional baggage than to pay for individual kilograms of excess weight.
The most commonly applied weight thresholds are 23 kg, 32 kg and above 32 kg. The 23 kg limit concerns standard checked baggage in economy class. The 32 kg limit means the maximum weight of a single piece of baggage, the exceeding of which usually requires dividing the contents into two suitcases. Above 32 kg baggage is often not accepted as a single piece and may be classified for special transport.
The differences between low-cost and traditional airlines are very significant. Budget carriers usually apply rigid limits and high fees for excess weight, whereas traditional airlines more often offer greater flexibility, the possibility of buying a higher limit in advance, or more favourable terms within higher fares.
The second and third piece of baggage
The number of pieces of checked baggage has a direct impact on the cost of the trip. In many economy fares only one suitcase is allowed, and each subsequent piece involves an additional fee.
When you can take two suitcases free of charge depends on the ticket class and the passenger's status. In business class, premium economy or in loyalty programmes with a high status, two pieces of checked baggage are often included without surcharges. In standard economy usually one piece applies.
Each additional piece of checked baggage has its own price, which depends on the route, the season and the moment of purchase. Buying a second or third suitcase at the booking stage is considerably cheaper than doing it at the airport, where the highest rates apply.
Baggage packages sold in advance are decidedly more worthwhile than last-minute surcharges. Airlines encourage early purchase, because it allows them to better manage the space in the aircraft and the logistics. At the airport prices are the highest, and availability may be limited, especially on full flights.
Special situations and exceptions
Not all flights are subject to the same baggage rules. In the case of charter flights the baggage policy is often set individually by the tour operator. In many cases checked baggage is already included in the price, however the limits may differ from those of standard scheduled airlines.
On code-share flights and connecting routes the rules of the carrier dominant in the booking or operating the first segment of the journey apply. This can lead to a situation in which different segments of the same journey have different baggage limits, which is worth checking before departure.
Booking changes can affect baggage entitlements. Switching to another fare or changing the carrier often means a change in the rules regarding baggage, which may result in the need for a surcharge or the loss of previously purchased services.
Fees charged at the airport vs earlier purchase
The moment baggage is purchased has enormous significance for the final cost of the trip. The price differences between earlier purchase and fees charged at the airport can be very large and reach even several times the original price.
Buying baggage in advance is the safest and at the same time the cheapest option. It allows you to avoid stress, unforeseen fees and time pressure at the airport. In many cases adding baggage to the booking earlier is also the only guarantee of availability of space in the carrier's system.
A baggage-buying strategy should take into account the travel plan, the length of the trip and the policy of the specific airline. It's worth regularly checking the terms of the fare, as they change depending on the season, the direction of the flight and current promotions.
Peli travel backpacks and bags
Hand baggage – detailed rules and traps
Hand baggage seems simple only at first glance. In practice it's precisely this that generates the most misunderstandings at airports, because it combines dimensional and weight restrictions with safety rules. Each airline may interpret the same standards in a slightly different way, which means that preparing the right set of things requires more attention than it might seem.
The small personal bag (underseat bag)
The small personal bag is the most restrictive element of hand baggage, because it must fit directly under the passenger's seat. This means not only dimensional restrictions but also practical ones – what counts is the real ability to cram it into the cramped space.
This category most often includes small backpacks, handbags, laptop bags and compact cabin suitcases of a soft construction. The key thing, however, is that even a visually small bag may be questioned if its shape makes it impossible to slide freely under the seat.
A backpack isn't always treated as a small personal bag. If it has a stiffened construction, protruding pockets or exceeds the permitted height, it may be classified as full cabin baggage. In such a situation the passenger has to reckon with the need to change the baggage class or pay a surcharge.
| Type of item | Chance of acceptance as an underseat bag | Most common problem |
|---|---|---|
| Soft backpack | High | Overfilling and lack of compression |
| Stiff hiking backpack | Medium | Stiffened construction |
| Small cabin suitcase | Depends on dimensions | Lack of flexibility |
Cabin baggage (overhead bin)
Cabin baggage is a suitcase or bag placed in the locker above the passenger's head. Although it seems more "standard," in reality it's subject to strict rules regarding dimensions, weight and availability of space in the cabin.
The right to use the overhead locker isn't always equal for all passengers. In many airlines priority goes to people with earlier boarding or a higher ticket fare. This means that even baggage that meets the norms won't always find space in the cabin.
Gate checking is a situation in which staff ask you to hand over the baggage at the gate and place it in the aircraft's hold. This most often happens when the lockers are already full. In most cases this service is free, but it involves losing access to the baggage during the flight.
It's worth remembering that gate checking doesn't always mean full freedom. If the baggage exceeds the dimensional or weight limits, it may be treated as standard checked baggage, which involves additional fees.
The contents of hand baggage and safety
Aviation safety imposes uniform, international rules regarding the contents of hand baggage. Their aim is to limit risk and ensure an efficient check of passengers.
Liquids are subject to the most well-known restriction: each container can't exceed 100 ml, and all of them must fit in one transparent bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. This rule concerns cosmetics, drinks, gels and aerosols, regardless of their partial use – though it's worth noting that some airports have started to relax it as new scanners are rolled out. For the full picture, see our guide on items you cannot bring on a plane.
Electronics are treated as an element requiring particular control. Laptops, tablets and power banks must be easily accessible during the security check. Particular attention is paid to lithium batteries, which can be transported exclusively in hand baggage, and their capacity is strictly limited.
Medicines and food for infants constitute an exception to the standard rules regarding liquids. They can be transported in larger amounts, however they often require additional declaration and possible verification by the security check.
The most common mistakes passengers make
One of the most frequent mistakes is choosing the wrong type of baggage. Soft bags have an advantage, because they can be easily compressed, which increases the chance of fitting within the limits. Hard suitcases are riskier, because they don't adjust to the control sizers and often minimally exceed the permitted dimensions.
Packing baggage without a strategy is another problem. Too loose an arrangement of things increases the volume, and a lack of organisation means that even a small set of clothes can take up more space than planned. In practice the key becomes the maximum use of space and the elimination of empty spaces.
A baggage scale is a small tool that can significantly reduce the risk of surcharges. Even small exceedings of weight limits are often costly, which is why a check at home lets you avoid stress and unpleasant situations at check-in.
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Overfilled backpack | Refusal as a personal bag | Compression and limiting the contents |
| Hard suitcase | Not passing through the sizer | Choosing a soft construction |
| No weight check | Surcharge at the airport | A baggage scale before departure |
Peli Air cabin and travel cases
Strategies for saving on baggage
Baggage costs can in practice significantly raise the price of the whole trip, often even more than the ticket itself. That's why a conscious approach to choosing the fare, the moment of purchase and the way of packing lets you really limit the expense. In this chapter we focus on solutions that help avoid unnecessary fees without giving up comfort.
Buy baggage in advance, not at the airport
The simplest and at the same time most effective saving strategy is buying baggage in advance. Airlines apply dynamic pricing, which means that the closer to departure, the more expensive it gets.
In practice the differences can be very clear. Adding baggage when booking the ticket is usually the cheapest option, whereas buying it at the airport can cost several times more. Additionally, airport fees often have a "penalty" character, which means they're higher than standard online rates.
It's worth remembering that carriers treat earlier purchase as an element of logistical planning. Thanks to it they can better manage the space in the aircraft, which is why they reward passengers with a lower price.
Loyalty programmes and passenger statuses
Loyalty programmes are one of the most frequently overlooked ways of saving on baggage. A higher passenger status very often means access to additional baggage without fees or a significant raising of the weight limits.
A higher passenger status in programmes such as Miles & More, SkyMiles or AAdvantage can provide free checked baggage, even on lower fares. In practice this means real savings already with a few trips a year.
Some credit cards linked with airlines also offer free baggage or its first piece without fees. This concerns, among others, programmes cooperating with carriers such as American Airlines or Delta. In such cases the benefits can cover both the passenger and people travelling together on the same booking.
Ticket class and the right to baggage
The ticket class has a direct impact on how much baggage you can take without surcharges. On the cheapest fares, such as Economy Light or Basic Economy, checked baggage often isn't included in the price at all.
These fares are attractive in terms of price, but they can generate hidden costs. After adding baggage the total price of the trip can come close to higher classes, which include baggage as standard from the start.
In many cases a surcharge to a higher ticket class is more worthwhile than buying baggage separately. Besides the baggage itself, the passenger often receives additional benefits, such as seat selection or greater travel comfort.
Packages and bundle offers
Bundled packages, so-called bundle offers, are a popular solution applied by airlines, allowing several services to be combined in one price. Most often they cover baggage, seat selection and priority boarding.
The worthwhileness of such packages depends on the individual needs of the passenger. If we're going to buy baggage and a seat anyway, the package may be cheaper than buying each service separately.
In airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air or LOT the packages differ in the scope of services. In low-cost airlines they often offer basic baggage and priority, whereas in traditional airlines they may cover more extensive travel options. The key is comparing the price of the whole package with the sum of the individual services.
Alternatives to expensive baggage
You don't always have to pay for additional baggage to transport the things you need. There are alternative solutions that in many cases turn out to be more worthwhile.
Sending baggage by courier before the flight is an option especially favourable for longer stays or relocations. In many cases the cost of shipping can be comparable to or lower than excess baggage fees, and it additionally eliminates the need to carry a heavy suitcase.
Luggage storage facilities are practical in situations where the trip covers several cities or transfers. They let you leave some things for the duration of the journey and collect them later, which reduces the need to transport everything on the plane.
In some cases it's also possible to send some things by post. This concerns especially clothes, books or less valuable items. Such a solution tends to be surprisingly economical, especially on longer stays or multi-stage journeys.
Passenger rights in the context of baggage
Problems with baggage don't end with fees for excess weight or oversize. In practice, situations in which baggage is lost, damaged or delivered late appear equally often. In such cases the passenger has specific rights, which result from international regulations and EU rules.
Lost baggage – what the passenger is entitled to
The loss of baggage is one of the most stressful situations during a trip. At the moment the suitcase doesn't appear on the baggage belt, the passenger should immediately report the problem at the service point at the airport.
The basic document is the PIR (Property Irregularity Report), which constitutes official confirmation of the loss or irregularity in the delivery of baggage. Without this document the further pursuit of claims may be hindered or impossible.
Compensation in the case of lost baggage is regulated by the Montreal Convention, which sets the maximum amount of recompense. Following the latest revision, effective from 28 December 2024, the limit is up to 1,519 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) per passenger – roughly 1,750 euros / 2,000 US dollars – a figure converted into the local currency. This was raised from the previous 1,288 SDR as part of the Convention's built-in inflation review.
There's a specific deadline for submitting a complaint. In the case of baggage that's lost or delivered late, the passenger should act quickly, because exceeding the statutory time may result in the rejection of the claim.
Damaged baggage
Damage to baggage covers both visible destruction and problems affecting its functionality. These can be cracks in the suitcase, damaged wheels, torn zips or serious deformations of the construction.
Not every damage, however, is grounds for compensation. Airlines often consider that normal wear resulting from use isn't subject to recompense. This concerns minor scratches, abrasions or transport marks.
Documentation made on the spot is of key importance. Damage should be reported immediately after collecting the baggage and documented with photos and a report drawn up at the airport. The more precise the documentation, the greater the chance of a positive consideration of the complaint.
Delayed baggage
Delayed baggage means a situation in which the suitcase didn't arrive together with the passenger, but was found and delivered later. In such a case the passenger has the right to reimbursement of the costs of necessary purchases made during the wait.
This concerns above all essential items, such as clothing, cosmetics or basic hygiene products. The purchases must be justified and proportionate to the length of the delay.
Airlines apply compensation limits, which determine the maximum amount of reimbursement. The level of recompense depends on the carrier, the length of the delay and the type of ticket, but it's always based on the general principles of liability for baggage.
An unjustly charged fee – how to appeal
In the case of an unjustly charged baggage fee, the passenger has the right to submit a complaint directly to the carrier. Each airline has its own complaints procedure, which determines the way of reporting and considering complaints.
If the complaint isn't upheld, it's possible to direct the matter to the national civil aviation authority responsible for overseeing passenger rights in your country. Such an intervention is especially effective in the case of a breach of EU regulations or an incorrectly charged fee.
An alternative path is the European Consumer Centre (ECC-Net), which helps in cross-border disputes between a passenger and a carrier from another EU country. This institution supports the complaints process and can facilitate an amicable resolution of the dispute. If your problem started with a missed connection rather than baggage, our guide on what to do when you've missed your flight walks through your options.
The future of baggage rules
The rules regarding baggage aren't fixed. They change along with the development of the aviation market, technology and economic pressure. In recent years it's clearly visible that carriers increasingly modify their baggage policy in a way that increases revenue, but at the same time complicates life for passengers.
The trend towards increasingly restrictive rules
One of the main directions of change is the gradual tightening of the rules regarding hand baggage. Airlines increasingly limit its size or introduce additional fees for elements that were previously standard.
The reason for such a strategy is above all economics. Hand baggage takes up space in the cabin, and its excess leads to delays during boarding and the need to check some suitcases into the hold. Limiting its number lets airlines increase operational efficiency.
The pandemic also had a significant impact, changing the cost structure across the whole aviation sector. The drop in the number of passengers, the rise in fuel prices and the pressure on profitability meant that carriers began looking for additional sources of revenue, and baggage fees became one of the most important elements of this strategy.
New technologies in baggage control
The development of technology significantly affects the way baggage is checked at airports. The automation of processes aims to speed up passenger handling and increase the precision of checks.
Automatic baggage gates, that is self-service bag drops, let passengers check in their baggage themselves without the involvement of a staff member. These systems shorten the check-in time and reduce queues, while at the same time lowering airlines' operational costs.
3D scanners for measuring baggage dimensions increasingly replace traditional metal control frames. Thanks to three-dimensional scanning technology it's possible to more accurately determine the real shape and volume of a suitcase, which limits disputes over "minimal exceedings" of dimensions.
RFID, that is radio-frequency identification technology, enables tracking baggage in real time. Thanks to special tags the passenger can check where their suitcase is, which significantly reduces the risk of loss and increases the transparency of the transport process.
Possible changes to EU regulations
In the European Union discussions about unifying baggage rules have been going on for years. Currently each airline can apply its own limits, which leads to large differences between carriers and frequent misunderstandings among passengers.
Proposals are appearing to introduce common standards regarding hand and checked baggage, which would apply to all carriers operating within the EU. Such a solution could increase transparency and make it easier to compare offers, but at the same time it would limit the airlines' flexibility.
In parallel, pressure is growing from consumer organisations, which demand greater transparency of fees and the limiting of so-called hidden costs. The impact of these actions may in the future lead to changes in the way ticket prices are presented, so that basic baggage is more unambiguously included in the offer.
Summary
Travelling by plane largely comes down to understanding the rules regarding baggage. It's precisely they that most often decide the final cost of the ticket, the comfort of the trip and the level of stress at the airport. Even small differences in dimensions, weight or the moment of purchase can translate into real fees.
The most important conclusion is that baggage isn't an add-on, but part of the travel strategy. Each airline applies its own rules, which is why not knowing them often leads to unplanned costs. Particularly important are the limits of hand baggage, fees for excess weight and the rules regarding additional pieces of baggage.
In practice a few simple rules work best:
- Carefully checking the baggage limits before buying the ticket.
- Buying baggage in advance rather than at the airport.
- Checking the weight and dimensions before leaving home.
- Conscious packing, taking safety rules into account.
- Analysing whether a higher ticket fare won't be cheaper than baggage surcharges.
It's also worth remembering that baggage policy changes dynamically and differs between carriers. What worked on one airline doesn't have to be accepted on another, even on the same route.
That's why before every ticket purchase it's worth devoting a few minutes to checking the current baggage rules of the specific airline. Such a simple action lets you avoid unpleasant surprises and often really lowers the cost of the whole trip.
