Avoid being caught out by unexpected gate checks and extra baggage fees at the airport.

In this guide, we’ll explain the rules surrounding international carry-on restrictions and reveal smart packing tips for a stress-free journey. Learn carry-on size and weight limits for popular airlines to maximise your packing space and breeze through the airport.

Understanding carry-on weight limits

Know before you go to pack like a pro

Avoid the hassle of last-minute repacking or unexpected gate checks by checking your airline’s carry-on weight limit before your trip. Most airlines stick to a standard carry-on weight limit of about 7kg, but this does vary. For instance, British Airways allows a generous 23kg – provided you can lift the bag yourself – while United Airlines doesn’t apply a weight restriction. Researching your airline’s restrictions before packing will ensure you’re always within the limit and can travel with confidence.

Quick packing tips

Roll, don’t fold, to maximise space.

Weigh your bag before you leave.

Check airline-specific restrictions.

Carry-on rules for top international airlines

Compare carry-on size and weight limits at a glance

The below table details the carry-on rules for some of the top international airlines. Double-check your allowance before you fly to make sure there are no problems at the airport.

Airline	Allowance	Max Dimensions	Max Weight
AirAsia	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
Air New Zealand	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	Sum of length, width and height must not measure more than a combined 118cm	7kg
British Airways	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 45cm x 25cm	23kg
Cathay Pacific	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
China Airlines	1 cabin bag	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
Emirates	1 cabin bag	55cm x 38cm x 20cm	7kg
Etihad Airways	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
Fiji Airways	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	55cm x 40cm x 23cm	7kg
Garuda Indonesia	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
Japan Airlines	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 45cm x 25cm	10kg
Jetstar	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
KLM	1 cabin bag	55cm x 35cm x 25cm	12kg
Lufthansa	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	55cm x 40cm x 23cm	8kg
Malaysia Airlines	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	Sum of length, width and height must not measure more than a combined 115cm	7kg
Qantas	1 cabin bag	56cm x 36cm x 23cm	7kg
Qatar Airways	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	50cm x 37cm x 25cm	7kg
Scoot	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	54cm x 38cm x 23cm	7kg
Singapore Airlines	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	Sum of length, width and height must not measure more than a combined 115cm	7kg
Thai Airways	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 45cm x 25cm	7kg
Tigerair	2 bags	54cm x 38cm x 23cm	7kg
United	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	56cm x 35cm x 22cm	No limit
Virgin Australia	1 cabin bag + 1 personal item	48cm x 34cm x 23cm	7kg

Hand luggage restrictions: what you need to know

Prohibited items and liquid restrictions made simple

Accidentally packing a banned item in your carry-on could cause delays and result in the offending item being binned by airport security. While it’s obvious that explosives and firearms are a no-go, other seemingly harmless items like nail scissors, tent pegs, and hair dyes may also be banned. To avoid surprises, always check your airline’s website for specific restrictions.

As well as knowing what not to pack, you need to know how to pack liquids correctly. To avoid having your favourite pricey perfume confiscated at security, all liquid items, including sprays, cosmetics, gels, and toothpaste, must be in containers of no more than 100ml. If you can’t find travel-sized versions of your favourites, you’ll need to decant them into smaller travel bottles. All your liquids should fit inside a single, transparent, and resealable bag, typically no larger than 20 x 20 cm. You must show the bag at security, so pack it at the top of your bag for easy access.

A little bit of research and preparation goes a long way to ensuring you and your luggage sail through airport security without a hitch.

Frequently asked carry-on questions

What if my carry-on is slightly overweight?

Policies vary with some airlines being stricter than others. You may be allowed to bring it on to your flight or you may have to check your bag and pay a fee. It’s always best to understand your carry-on allowance and ensure your luggage is within the restrictions.

Does a handbag count as a carry-on?

Most airlines allow one carry-on plus a smaller personal item. In most cases, your handbag would count as your personal item.

Do airlines actually weigh carry-on bags?

Enforcement varies, but be prepared for your bag to be weighed, especially if it looks bulky. Some airlines might not weigh your bag, but they may ask you to place it within the bag-size checker to check its dimensions.

How strict are airlines on carry-on bags?

Strictness varies by airline and airport, so check specific regulations before travelling. It’s always best to ensure that your carry-on is within the weight and size restrictions to avoid any potential issues before your flight.

What is the maximum weight for a carry-on bag?

The typical limit is 7kg, but this varies depending on the airline. Some airlines, like British Airways, allow a very generous carry-on size of 23kg.

How many carry-on bags are allowed on international flights?

In most cases, you’ll be allowed to bring one carry-on bag plus a smaller personal item on international flights. If you’re flying internationally from Australia, always make sure you check the carry-on rules and restrictions for your chosen airline before you fly.

Now you know the carry-on rules and regulations for international flights, you can start packing and planning.

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