# Complete Guide to Carry-on Luggage Dimensions 2026
Everything you need to know before you fly
Updated guide to personal item and cabin bag dimensions.
Weight allowance comparison by airline (from 7kg to 23kg).
Difference between personal item, carry-on bag, and checked luggage.
Tips to avoid boarding gate surcharges.
# Personal Item vs. Cabin Bag
Understanding the modern luggage hierarchy is vital. Since the *Low Cost* model took over, most airlines have fragmented what you can take on the plane. The personal item (small backpack, purse, or laptop bag) is usually the only one that is free on basic fares, while the cabin bag (the traditional trolley) usually requires a supplement or is included in Priority.Low Cost Airlines
Strict rules, usually only allowing one small bag under the seat for free.
- Ryanair/Vueling: Cabin bag is paid
- Dimensions monitored with sizer box
- Maximum weights between 8kg and 10kg
- High surcharges if you exceed size
Flat Carriers / Traditional
More flexible policies, usually including a cabin bag in almost all fares.
- Iberia/Lufthansa: Cabin bag included
- Higher weight limits (up to 23kg on BA)
- Combination of personal item + bag
- Free gate checking service if flight is full
# Measurements by Airline: Reference Table
Although you can use our interactive search, here is a summary of the most common policies for quick planning:| Airline | Personal Item (Under seat) | Cabin Bag (Hand) |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 x 20 x 25 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Paid) |
| Vueling | 40 x 20 x 30 cm | 55 x 40 x 20 cm (Paid) |
| Iberia | 40 x 30 x 15 cm | 56 x 40 x 25 cm (Free) |
| Air France | 40 x 30 x 15 cm | 55 x 35 x 25 cm (Free) |
| EasyJet | 45 x 36 x 20 cm | 56 x 45 x 25 cm (Priority) |
| Lufthansa | 40 x 30 x 10 cm | 55 x 40 x 23 cm (Free) |
| American Airlines | 45 x 35 x 20 cm | 56 x 36 x 23 cm (Free) |
| Emirates | 40 x 30 x 15 cm | 55 x 38 x 20 cm (Free) |
| Qatar Airways | Under seat | 50 x 37 x 25 cm (Free) |
The Weight Trick
Many airlines like Emirates or Qatar are very strict with weight (7kg) but more relaxed with measurements. Others like British Airways allow up to 23kg as long as you can lift the bag yourself. Always weigh it at home!
# Why standard measurements fail
Many travelers buy bags labeled "Cabin Size" and get an unpleasant surprise. The reason is that manufacturers usually indicate the measurement of the bag body, but airlines measure the total set: wheels + handle + outside pockets.# Expert Packing Tips
- Difference between 'Personal Item' and 'Carry-on': The personal item must fit under the front seat. The carry-on bag goes in the overhead bins.
- The wheel factor: The measurements we indicate include wheels and handles. A 55cm bag with 3cm wheels will stick out of the official sizer.
- Compression and Flexibility: Soft backpacks are preferable to hard suitcases if you are at the limit, as they can be slightly compressed in the sizer.
- Combined rates: Sometimes it's cheaper to pay a 'Plus' fare than to add the cabin bag separately after purchase.
# Special Rules and Prohibited Items
It's not all centimeters and kilos. Hand luggage is subject to strict security regulations (EASA regulation). Remember the liquids rule: containers of maximum 100ml stored in a transparent bag of 1 liter total capacity.| Object | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| External batteries (Powerbanks) | Yes (Carry-on only) |
| Liquids > 100ml | Not allowed |
| Small scissors (<6cm) | Generally yes |
| Sharp tools | Not allowed |
Security notice
Lithium batteries are prohibited in the aircraft hold due to fire risk. They must always travel in your carry-on luggage.