UK Hand Luggage Rules & Allowances (2026 Guide)
Cabin bag rules differ by airline and catch travellers out with surprise fees. Here's a clear 2026 guide to UK hand luggage allowances, the liquids rule, and how to avoid paying extra at the gate.
The short answer
- Every airline sets its own size and weight limits
- Budget airlines are the strictest — check before you fly
- Always measure your bag against your airline's exact limits
Typical cabin bag limits (always confirm with your airline)
| Item | Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Small under-seat bag | ~40 × 20 × 25 cm | Often the only free option on budget fares |
| 🧳 Larger cabin bag | ~55 × 40 × 20 cm | May cost extra or need priority boarding |
| ⚖️ Weight limit | ~7–10 kg | Varies a lot by airline |
| 🧴 Liquids | 100 ml containers | In a clear resealable bag (rules easing at some airports) |
| Golden rule | Check first | Confirm your airline's exact limits before packing |
These are indicative estimates to help you plan, not quotes. Real prices change with season, demand and how early you book — always confirm live fares before booking.
The liquids rule
The long-standing rule limits liquids to containers of 100 ml or less, carried in a clear resealable bag. Some UK airports are upgrading scanners that relax this, but the rules differ by airport and are still changing — assume the 100 ml rule applies unless your departure airport clearly states otherwise.
Avoiding surprise fees
The most common gate fee is an oversized or second cabin bag on a budget airline. To avoid it:
- Measure your bag against your airline's stated dimensions (including wheels and handles).
- On budget fares, check whether only a small under-seat bag is included.
- Weigh your bag at home if your airline has a weight limit.
- Pay for cabin bags online in advance — far cheaper than at the gate.
How to keep the cost down
- Check your specific airline's size and weight limits.
- Pay for extra cabin bags online, not at the gate.
- Keep liquids in 100 ml containers in a clear bag.
- Measure your bag including wheels and handles.
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✨ Plan your trip →Frequently asked questions
What size hand luggage is allowed in the UK?
There's no single UK-wide size — each airline sets its own. A small under-seat bag is around 40 × 20 × 25 cm, while a larger cabin bag is around 55 × 40 × 20 cm. Always check your airline's exact limits.
What is the liquids rule for hand luggage?
Generally, liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less inside a clear resealable bag. Some UK airports are relaxing this with new scanners, but rules vary — check your departure airport.
How do I avoid hand luggage fees?
Measure and weigh your bag against your airline's limits, pay for any cabin bag online in advance, and on budget fares check whether only a small under-seat bag is included.