Baggage essentials
Getting ready to go
Knowing what you can and cannot take on board, as well as how much you can carry, can make all the difference to your journey. Be prepared, plan ahead and get your journey off to a good start.
Baggage essentials:
Hand baggage announcement
The UK Department for Transport has given approval to a number of UK airports to remove the one-bag restriction on hand baggage. As a result British Airways has re-introduced its two-piece hand baggage allowance for passengers departing from the following airports:
- London Heathrow
- London Gatwick
- London City
- Aberdeen
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- Jersey
- Manchester
- Newcastle
The following allowances apply for all passengers entering the UK or departing from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London City, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Jersey, Manchester and Newcastle:
- one standard-sized bag - maximum size of the bag must not exceed 56x45x25cm (22x17.5x9.85in) (including wheels, pockets and handles)
- In addition, one laptop sized bag, handbag or briefcase
- A 23kg (51lbs) maximum bag weight applies and you must be able to lift the bag into the overhead lockers in the aircraft cabin unaided.
NB. Cabin crew will assist customers with additional needs.
The one-bag restriction will remain in place at the following airport where British Airways operates:
- Newquay
Passengers travelling from or transferring through other UK airports should see the hand baggage section below for full details on the current hand baggage policy.
Hand baggage
Find out how much you can carry onto the aircraft with you. Remember to pack your valuables in your hand baggage, and anything you need with you during the flight, like medication.
Checked baggage
Find out your free allowance for the bags you check in for your flight. Remember to pack sharp objects in your checked baggage.
Bag Drop
If you have bags to drop off and you have used check in on ba.com or an airport check in kiosk, you can go to a designated Bag Drop desk at the airport.
Airport security
Due to extra security checks at some airports, you may experience delays when passing through security screening.
- After check in, go immediately through security.
- Allow extra time to complete security checks and get to your gate on time.
- Minimise your hand baggage and remove your laptop from its bag to be screened separately (at London Heathrow and some other airports).
- When departing from or transitting through the UK, hand baggage restrictions apply.
