The following are airline industry standard guidelines but airlines are permitted to set their own rules and restrictions. Research identifies numerous variations to the details set out below. In particular many North American airlines (including Canadian) have made fundamental changes to their baggage allowances depending on dates of purchase of tickets etc.

Passengers are reminded to obtain precise details of their baggage allowances from their chosen airline or flight operator before they travel.

Baggage allowances take into consideration not only weight but also physical dimensions.

1) CHECKED BAGGAGE

The two methods of determining the amount of checked baggage allowed to be stowed in the hold of the aircraft are:

a) PIECE CONCEPT or SYSTEM:

This method of assessment is based on the number of pieces and dimensions and not the total weight. Airlines do however limit the weight of each piece.*

*Maximum Weight is currently 32kgs/70 lbs per piece. However, this limit can now be as low as 23kgs/50 lbs per piece.

The standard Free Baggage Allowance is:

b) WEIGHT CONCEPT or SYSTEM:

This method of assessment is based on the total weight of baggage and not the number of pieces. The standard Free Baggage Allowance is:

These are standard allowances – some airlines may have differing allowances particularly on domestic routes.

2) CABIN BAGGAGE

There are many variations to the weight, number and size of pieces of cabin baggage including additional personal items which may be carried on board. These include laptops, briefcases, garment bags as well as items for infants and the disabled.

Weight limits of cabin baggage vary from airline to airline from as low as 3kgs/6.6 lbs to as high as 18kgs/40 lbs. Most airlines permit only 1 carry on piece but some allow 2 depending on class of ticket.

The generally acceptable Linear Length of a piece of cabin baggage is 115cm/45 in but this can be as high as 130cm/51in. The shape of the piece is an important factor as it must be able to be stored in the overhead locker or sometimes under the aircraft seat.

However, there are currently more stringent rules in place for departures from all UK airports. Only one piece of hand luggage is permitted on board the aircraft and the dimensions must not exceed 56 x 45 x 25 cms. This is a general BAA rule but individual airlines are free to set their own smaller size limits.