Last updated: July 19, 2026
Baggage rules depend on your airline, route, and travel class. Below is a general guide for international flights. Always check your specific carrier's policies before heading to the airport — you can find your exact limits on your ticket, by logging into your reservation on the airline's website, or by consulting the IATA Passenger Baggage Rules.
1. Carry-On & Personal Items
| Item |
Dimensions |
Weight Limit |
| Carry-On Bag |
56 x 45 x 25 cm (22" x 18" x 10") |
7–10 kg (15–22 lbs) |
| Personal Item |
40 x 30 x 20 cm (16" x 12" x 8") |
Usually included in cabin allowance |
Tip: US carriers typically don't weigh carry-on bags at the gate, but many Asian and European airlines enforce strict 7 kg to 10 kg limits. Weigh your bag at home to avoid surprises.
Liquids Rule (3-1-1)
Internationally enforced on all flights — all liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on must:
- Be in containers of 100 mL (3.4 oz) or less each
- Fit into one clear, resealable 1-litre bag (approx. 20 x 20 cm)
- One bag per passenger — remove it for screening at security
Exceptions: medications, baby food/formula, and duty-free liquids in sealed tamper-evident bags.
2. Checked Baggage
| Class |
Max Weight per Bag |
Max Dimensions (L+W+H) |
| Economy |
23 kg (50 lbs) |
158 cm (62 inches) |
| Business / First Class |
32 kg (70 lbs) |
158 cm (62 inches) |
Piece vs. Weight Concept
Your allowance may be determined by either method:
- Piece concept (common on US/Americas routes) — you're allowed a set number of bags, each within weight limits.
- Weight concept (common on Asian/European/African routes) — you're allowed a total combined weight across all bags, regardless of how many you check.
Tip: For international flights, Economy passengers are generally allowed 1 carry-on + 1 personal item in the cabin, and 1 to 2 checked bags. Check your booking confirmation for your exact allowance.
3. Safety & Restricted Items
Powder Restrictions
If flying to or from specific countries (such as the US or Australia), powders in your carry-on are limited to 350 mL / 12 oz per item. Larger quantities must be placed in checked luggage.
Important: Lithium batteries and power banks are prohibited in checked luggage due to fire risks. Always carry them in your cabin baggage. Spare batteries should be protected from short circuit (e.g. kept in original packaging or a battery case).
Items Not Allowed in Carry-On or Checked Baggage
- Explosives, fireworks, and flares
- Compressed gases (camping stoves, aerosol cans above 500 mL)
- Flammable liquids and solids (paint, lighter fluid, matches)
- Oxidizers and organic peroxides (bleach, hair peroxide)
- Corrosives (mercury, strong acids, alkalis)
- Toxic and infectious substances
- Magnetized materials and radioactive items
Items Allowed in Checked Baggage Only
- Sharp objects (knives, scissors, tools) — must be securely wrapped
- Sporting goods (golf clubs, cricket bats, hockey sticks)
- Firearms and ammunition (with proper declaration and documentation)
4. Excess Baggage
If your bag exceeds the weight or size limit, airlines typically charge excess baggage fees. These vary widely:
- Oversized bags (over 158 cm total) may incur a flat fee of $50–$200+
- Overweight bags (over 23 kg) are charged per kg or per extra bag tier
- Extra bags usually cost $30–$100+ per additional piece depending on the route
Fees are almost always cheaper when paid online in advance rather than at the airport counter.
5. Special Items
- Strollers & car seats: Most airlines allow one stroller and one car seat per infant, free of charge.
- Musical instruments: Can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin, or purchased a seat for larger items.
- Sports equipment: Skis, surfboards, and diving gear may count toward your checked allowance or incur special fees.
- Medical equipment: Essential medical devices are typically permitted in addition to your standard allowance.
Tip: If you're travelling for Umrah, remember that Zamzam water is typically allowed as an additional item (approx. 5 litres) on most airlines operating Saudi routes. Check with your carrier for their specific policy.
Contact Us
If you have questions about baggage policies for your booking, our team can help you check the exact allowances for your airline and route:
