British Airways Cabin Bag Allowance (2026): Size & Rules
British Airways cabin-bag and personal-item sizes, Basic fare inclusion, lifting requirements and the difference from checked-bag allowances.
British Airways lists one cabin bag plus one smaller underseat item in every cabin, including Economy Basic. Premium cabins and status benefits must not be confused with extra overhead bags.
Size and weight
| Item | Published maximum | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin bag | 56 × 45 × 25 cm | Includes wheels and handles; you must be able to lift it unassisted |
| Smaller item | 40 × 30 × 15 cm | Must fit under the seat |
The current BA policy states no numerical cabin-weight cap. Its checked-bag kilogram limits are separate. The same page contains a calculator template showing 45 × 36 × 20 cm for the smaller item; use the smaller published limit and confirm your booking before relying on the larger figure.
Basic, premium cabins and connections
Basic excludes a checked bag, not the cabin allowance. Business and First still list one cabin bag plus one smaller item. Partner-operated flights may differ.
The larger bag may need to travel in the hold. Keep essential medicine, valuables and electronics in the smaller item. Check departure-airport security rules separately.
Measure the packed exterior, then check your bag or compare your whole route.
Sources and scope
Source-based research; no hands-on test or specialist review claimed.
One 56×45×25 cm cabin bag and one 40×30×15 cm underseat item are listed in all cabins; unassisted lifting is required.
BA, BA Cityflyer and BA Euroflyer; partner airlines differ. A calculator template also shows 45×36×20 cm for the smaller item, so use the smaller stated limit pending clarification. Checked-bag benefits are separate.
Your baggage allowance: Hand bag and Cabin bag; Extra, heavy or large bagsSource review: · Codex (AI source review)
Frequently asked questions
Does BA Basic include a cabin bag?
Do Business and First allow two overhead cabin bags?
Check if your bag fits
Compare your carry-on dimensions with your airline’s allowance.