December 18th 2024.
When it comes to traveling by air, there's one thing that can really catch you off guard: baggage allowances. These are the rules that determine how much luggage you can bring with you on your flight, and they can vary greatly from one airline to another. Some airlines even charge extra fees for bringing on carry-on luggage or stowing your bags in the hold. It's a hot topic among passengers, and recently, some budget airlines were even fined for their "abusive" baggage fees in Spain.
The problem is, with different airlines using different guidelines for different routes and ticket classes, it can be hard to keep up with what's allowed and what's not. That's why we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the baggage policies of major airlines flying to and from the UK, so you can know exactly what to expect before you book your flight.
So, what exactly are the different kinds of baggage that you can bring on a flight? Generally, there are three types: personal items, cabin bags, and checked bags. Personal items are small bags that can fit under the seat in front of you, usually no larger than 40x30x20cm. Cabin bags, on the other hand, must be stored in the overhead locker and can weigh up to 10kg, with a maximum size of 56x45x25cm. And then there are checked bags, which are larger bags that must be checked in at the airport and are stored in the hold during the flight. These typically have a weight limit of 23kg.
But here's the good news: there are some airlines that offer generous baggage policies without any additional fees. The top three airlines with the best baggage policies are Air France, Etihad Airways, and Turkish Airlines. These carriers all allow one free personal item, one free cabin bag, and one free checked bag (up to 23kg) with all fare types and routes. Emirates and Qatar Airways also offer a similar deal, but with a limit of 20kg for checked baggage.
But what about budget airlines? Well, unfortunately, they usually only allow a small bag that fits under the seat for free. However, there is one exception: Jet2. This airline allows one carry-on bag (up to 10kg) for free, as long as it doesn't exceed 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, in addition to a personal item.
Now, let's talk about the rules for flying with smart bags. These are bags with electronic features, like USB charging ports or Bluetooth connectivity. While these bags may seem convenient, some airlines have actually banned them. British Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair are among the carriers that do not allow smart bags on their flights. So, if you have one, make sure to check with your airline before you fly.
And speaking of what not to pack, there are certain items that are prohibited on all flights, regardless of the airline. These include flammable liquids and solids, infectious substances, and explosives. It's important to check the list of prohibited items before you pack, as it can differ depending on whether you are bringing your luggage into the cabin or checking it in.
And finally, to make the most of your baggage allowance, we have some packing tips for you. Roll up your clothes to save space, pack footwear that can be worn for multiple occasions, and opt for lighter layers instead of bulky knitwear. You can also wear layers on the plane to save space in your bag. And if you're staying in a hotel that provides toiletries, you don't need to pack your own. Just be sure to do your research on what your airline allows before trying any viral packing hacks. Happy travels!
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
