The term “hand luggage” (also commonly referred to as “cabin baggage” or, especially in North America, “carry-on luggage”) refers to the baggage that passengers are permitted to bring with them into the aircraft cabin. Unlike checked luggage, which is stored in the plane’s cargo hold, hand luggage remains with the passenger throughout the flight.
What Constitutes Hand Luggage?
Hand luggage generally comprises two main categories:
The main carry-on bag: This is typically a small suitcase (often wheeled) or a larger backpack that is designed to fit in the overhead compartments above the seats.
A personal item: This is a smaller bag (like a purse, laptop bag, briefcases, or a small backpack) that must be able to fit completely under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow one main carry-on bag plus one personal item.
Key Characteristics & Benefits:
Cabin Accessibility: The primary benefit is that your belongings remain with you and are accessible during the flight. This is crucial for items you might need, such as medications, important documents, entertainment, or a change of clothes in case your checked luggage is delayed.
Avoids Baggage Claim: By traveling solely with hand luggage, you can bypass the often time-consuming wait at the baggage carousel upon arrival, allowing for a quicker exit from the airport.
Reduces Risk of Loss/Damage: Since the bag stays with you, the risk of it being lost, damaged, or mishandled by the airline is significantly reduced.
Cost Savings: Many airlines, particularly budget carriers or for basic economy fares, charge fees for checked luggage. Traveling with only hand luggage can help you avoid these additional costs.
Security: High-value items, electronics, and irreplaceable possessions are safer when kept with you in the cabin.
Size and Weight Restrictions:
This is the most critical aspect of hand luggage. Airline regulations for size and sometimes weight vary significantly, so it is absolutely essential to check the specific policy of the airline you are flying with before you pack.
However, general guidelines often include:
Main Carry-On Bag: Typically around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Some airlines may allow slightly different dimensions or a “linear inches” total (length + width + height).
Personal Item: Generally smaller, often around 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm).
Weight Limits: While many US domestic airlines do not strictly enforce weight limits for carry-ons (as long as you can lift it into the overhead bin unassisted), many international and budget airlines do have specific weight restrictions, often ranging from 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg) for the main carry-on.
Airlines often provide “bag sizers” at the airport to ensure your bag fits within their permitted dimensions. If your hand luggage exceeds the limits, you may be forced to check it at the gate and could incur significant fees.
Liquids (3-1-1 Rule): Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container. All containers must fit into one quart-sized (liter-sized) clear, plastic, zip-top bag, with one bag allowed per passenger.
A Change of Clothes: Highly recommended in case checked luggage is delayed or lost.
hand luggage
The term “hand luggage” (also commonly referred to as “cabin baggage” or, especially in North America, “carry-on luggage”) refers to the baggage that passengers are permitted to bring with them into the aircraft cabin. Unlike checked luggage, which is stored in the plane’s cargo hold, hand luggage remains with the passenger throughout the flight.
What Constitutes Hand Luggage?
Hand luggage generally comprises two main categories:
Key Characteristics & Benefits:
Size and Weight Restrictions:
This is the most critical aspect of hand luggage. Airline regulations for size and sometimes weight vary significantly, so it is absolutely essential to check the specific policy of the airline you are flying with before you pack.
However, general guidelines often include:
Airlines often provide “bag sizers” at the airport to ensure your bag fits within their permitted dimensions. If your hand luggage exceeds the limits, you may be forced to check it at the gate and could incur significant fees.
What to Pack in Hand Luggage: