Travel Tips: A Guide to Hand Luggage

I know how difficult it can be to find the right size for your hand luggage. That’s why I’ve pulled together some of the most common airlines and their hand luggage allowance. I’ve included some buying options and some packing tips, keep reading for your guide to hand luggage.

Aer Lingus

You can check a 10kg bag in for free with the value fare, otherwise, it’s €35 to check in at the gate. From €5.99 you can add priority boarding and a carry-on bag to bring on the plane. You cannot check it in if it’s added to your booking. For transatlantic flights, you can bring your carry-on and a small personal bag onboard (included in your price).

More info found here

Ryanair

With all fare types, you can bring a personal item that fits under the seat ie a backpack or a handbag. From €6 you can add a 10kg carry on or you can book priority boarding and a 10kg carry-on is included.

More info found here

Etihad

Your baggage allowance depends on your fare type. Hand luggage is normally 7kg allowance for flights which is a small suitcase or a large handbag.

More info found here

Emirates

Hand Baggage is normally 7kg with duty-free purchases allowed as extra. Sizing is 55 x 38 x 20cm (22 x 15 x 8 inches) First class and business class are allowed 2 pieces of hand luggage.

More info found here

Qatar

Economy class is allowed up to 7kg in one piece of hand luggage. Business and First class are allowed 2 pieces of hand luggage up to 15kg total.

More info found here

British Airways

On most long-haul flights you can bring 2 pieces of hand luggage, your small suitcase, and a handbag/backpack. BA.com allows you to check your exact route to see how much luggage you have included

More info found here

American Airlines

Your hand luggage shouldn’t exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches / 56 x 36 x 23 centimetres (including handles and wheels) and you can bring your handbag too.

• Also good to note that these items don’t count as your personal item or carry on

• Diaper bags (1 per child)

• The breast pump is small, a soft-sided cooler of breast milk

• Child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices

More info found here

Tips for packing your carry-on:

1. Check the airline’s hand luggage restrictions before packing. Make sure your bag meets the size and weight limits to avoid any additional fees or having to check it in. We’ve put together a list of Hand luggage requirements

2. Pack the essentials first, such as your passport, wallet, and any medications you may need during the flight. This ensures that even if your checked baggage is lost, you still have the important things with you.

3. Pack a change of clothes in case your checked baggage is delayed or lost. It’s always better to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

4. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the flight. Just make sure it’s empty before going through security. There are usually lots of water stations in airports after security.

5. Pack any electronics or valuables in your carry-on bag, rather than checked luggage. This includes laptops, cameras, and jewellery.

6. Don’t forget to pack some entertainment for the flight, such as a book, magazine, or tablet. This will help pass the time and make the flight more enjoyable.

7. If you’re bringing snacks, make sure they’re allowed through security and won’t spoil easily.

8. Consider packing a neck pillow and eye mask to make sleeping on the plane more comfortable. Choose the pillows that clip onto your bag so it doesn’t take up room.

9. Pack a small toiletry bag with travel-sized items such as toothpaste, a toothbrush, and hand sanitiser.

10. Finally, make sure your bag is easy to carry and manoeuvre through the airport. A backpack or a wheeled suitcase are good options.

Bags options

Here are some options you can purchase through the links below and there are plenty of hand luggage options on Amazon.