I once paid £60 at Heathrow for a bag that was 2kg overweight. The lesson stuck. Now I know exactly what British Airways allows for each ticket type, and I weigh my bags before every flight. The rules have changed multiple times over the years, especially with the introduction of Basic Economy fares that include no checked bag at all. Here is the current breakdown so you do not make the same expensive mistake I did.
British Airways baggage allowance varies by ticket type and cabin class. All tickets include a cabin bag and a personal item.
Checked Baggage by Class
| Class | Checked Bags | Weight per Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Basic | None | – |
| Economy (with checked bag) | 1 | 23kg |
| Premium Economy | 2 | 23kg each |
| Business | 2 | 32kg each |
| First | 3 | 32kg each |
Cabin Baggage
All tickets include:
Cabin bag:
- Max size: 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 inches)
- Max weight: 23kg (51 lbs)
Personal item (handbag/laptop bag):
- Max size: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 inches)
- Max weight: 23kg (51 lbs)
The personal item is guaranteed to fly in the cabin. Pack essentials (electronics, medicines, travel documents) in this bag.
Executive Club Benefits
Gold and Silver Executive Club members get additional checked bag allowance. OneWorld Emerald and Sapphire members also receive extra allowance.
Tips
- Weigh your bags before traveling to avoid excess baggage fees
- Pack essentials in your personal item – this bag is guaranteed cabin space
- Check your specific booking on ba.com for your exact allowance
- Economy Basic has no checked bag included – add one when booking if needed
Excess Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you’ll pay excess fees at the airport. Fees vary by route. It’s cheaper to add extra bags when booking online than at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does British Airways Economy Basic include a checked bag?
No, Economy Basic tickets do not include checked baggage. You only get a cabin bag and personal item. Add a checked bag when booking online to avoid higher airport fees.
What size cabin bag can I take on British Airways?
Your main cabin bag can be up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm and weigh up to 23kg. You also get one personal item (40 x 30 x 15 cm) like a handbag or laptop bag that fits under the seat.
How much does British Airways charge for overweight bags?
Excess baggage fees vary by route and are cheaper when added online during booking than at the airport. Weigh your bags before departure to avoid surprise charges. Check ba.com for specific route fees.
Do Executive Club members get extra baggage allowance?
Yes, British Airways Executive Club Gold and Silver members receive additional checked baggage allowance. OneWorld Emerald and Sapphire members also get extra allowance when flying British Airways.
Can I combine weight across multiple bags on British Airways?
No, each bag must meet the individual weight limit for your cabin class. You cannot combine a 20kg bag and a 26kg bag to average 23kg each. Each bag is weighed separately.
