Baggage restrictions

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Baggage restrictions

Hand baggage restrictions

Following the Government’s reduction in security levels from critical to severe, passengers are reminded that strict security remains in place at all UK airports. This easing of restrictions is not a return to normal. Find out more about the latest baggage restrictions.

Baggage allowances

Baggage allowances are determined by the airlines and will depend on a number of factors; for example, the fare paid, class, route, aircraft type, government regulations, and the airlines' own company commercial and health and safety policies.

In general, airlines set a 'free baggage allowance'. The allowance will be expressed by 'weight' and by 'piece'. Airlines may allow, and set charges, for baggage not meeting these criteria, i.e. 'excess baggage'. Travellers are advised to verify baggage allowances with the relevant airline when booking their ticket to avoid confusion or complications when checking in at the airport.

Baggage handling and delivery is the responsibility of the airlines from the point of check-in to the point of collection. If anything is left on an aircraft or an airline bus the airline should be contacted immediately.

Some airlines subscribe to a replacement service for baggage which has been damaged in transit. For details please contact your airline directly.

Excess and unaccompanied baggage

The Excess Baggage Company provides a range of baggage services, including forwarding of excess or unaccompanied baggage (within the UK or worldwide), bag wrap, and storage. It offers express, premium and economy services. Visit the Excess Baggage Company website for full details of its fully covered unaccompanied baggage services.

Unusual items

Please inform your airline or handling agent about any outsize or unusual items of baggage well in advance of departure.

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See what you can carry as hand baggage for departing flights.

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