Traveling is an exciting experience, but packing your suitcase can often be a source of stress, especially when it comes to complying with airlines' increasingly strict rules regarding the weight and size of carry-on luggage. In recent years, many airlines have decided to reduce the limits allowed for carry-on luggage and apply steep penalties for those who exceed the established thresholds. But why this change? And how can we best prepare ourselves to avoid extra costs and inconveniences? In this article, I'll explain everything clearly and in detail.
Why have airlines decided to reduce the size and weight of carry-on bags?
The decision to limit the weight and size of hand luggage is not a coincidence, but arises from a series of operational, safety and environmental sustainability needs that have pushed airlines to review their policies.
1. Limited cabin space and boarding optimization
Airplanes have very limited space in overhead bins and under seats. If passengers bring bags that are too large or heavy, the space quickly runs out, causing delays during boarding and disembarking, inconvenience and, in extreme cases, the obligation to check in hand luggage, with consequent loss of time and risk of damage.
2. Safety on board
In an emergency, it is essential that escape routes are clear and that luggage is stowed safely. Oversized or poorly positioned luggage can pose a danger to passengers and cabin crew.
3. Operational efficiency and cost reduction
Every extra kilo on board means an increase in fuel consumption, which translates into higher costs for airlines. Limiting the weight of luggage helps to keep the overall weight of the aircraft within optimal limits, reducing consumption and emissions.
4. Growth of low-cost flights and fare management
With the rise of low-cost flights, many airlines have adopted more restrictive policies to push passengers to pay for checked baggage or larger carry-on bags, thus increasing ancillary revenue. This has led to greater attention to size and weight controls.
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How do the rules vary between major airlines?
Each company has its own specific rules, which may also vary based on the fare purchased or the travel class.
Below is an updated and expanded table comparing the hand luggage rules of the main airlines in the world, including some of the most well-known internationally. The data is updated to the new rules in force from 2025.
Important Notes:
Dimensions listed include wheels and handles.
Some airlines, such as Ryanair and EasyJet, allow larger bags only with specific fees or supplements.
Penalties for exceeding weight or dimensions can be very high and vary depending on the route and the airline.
Personal accessories (bag, small backpack, laptop case) are generally allowed by traditional airlines, while low-cost airlines often limit them to the highest fares or prohibit them altogether.
Practical advice: always check the specific conditions of your company before leaving, because the rules can also change based on the destination or the fare purchased. A mistake can cost you dearly, especially with low-cost companies, where the fines at the gate are among the highest in the sector
How to avoid surcharges and problems with hand luggage?
Avoiding extra costs and inconveniences is possible with a little care and a good dose of organization. Here are the most effective strategies:
1. Know the airline rules
Before you travel, always check the size and weight limits for your hand luggage and any personal accessories. The rules may also change based on your travel class or ticket type.
2. Use compliant and lightweight luggage
Choose a trolley or backpack that respects the maximum dimensions allowed, preferring light and resistant models. Avoid hard suitcases that are too heavy when empty.
3. Organize the content well
Use organizers, vacuum bags, and dividers to optimize space and compress clothes. Bring only the essentials, avoiding unnecessary items.
4. Wear warm clothes during the flight
If you have bulky jackets, shoes or sweaters, wear them during your trip to save weight and space in your luggage.
5. Weigh and measure your luggage before you leave
Don't leave it to chance: use a portable scale or bathroom scale to weigh your luggage and a tape measure to measure its size and height, including wheels and handles.
6. Book hold baggage in advance if necessary
If you plan to exceed the limits, it is more convenient to purchase the right to hold baggage in advance, avoiding higher penalties at the gate.
7. Take advantage of loyalty programs
Some airlines offer more generous baggage allowances to members of their frequent flyer programs.
Useful tools to control weight and dimensions
To avoid surprises at the airport, here are the accessories that help you check your luggage:
Portable digital scale: compact and easy to use, it attaches to the handle of the trolley to weigh it anywhere.
Bathroom scale: useful for weighing yourself with and without luggage and calculating your net weight.
Tape measure: essential for accurately measuring the length, width and height of your luggage.
Luggage with integrated scales: innovative models that indicate the weight without additional tools.
Airport Weighing Stations: Some facilities offer free weighing stations to check your weight and dimensions before you check in.
The simplest trick to check the weight of your hand luggage
If you don't have a scale handy, a practical method is this: step on a bathroom scale holding your luggage, note the total weight, then weigh yourself. The difference is the weight of your luggage. It's a simple and effective trick to immediately understand if you're within the limits.
Conclusion: travel light, travel peacefully
Carry-on baggage rules have become more stringent, but with the right preparation you can turn this obligation into an opportunity to travel lighter, more organized and stress-free. Remember that every inch and kilo saved is a step towards a smoother, safer and more enjoyable travel experience.
Don't let an oversized suitcase ruin your trip: inform yourself, measure, weigh and choose carefully what to bring. So you can enjoy every moment, from check-in to landing, with a smile and without surprises!
Have a nice trip! ✈️🌍
