Hand Luggage Rules 2026 – Dimensions, Weight and Key Regulations at a Glance

If you're travelling by plane, you should know the airlines' current hand luggage rules. Dimensions, weight and permitted items can vary considerably from airline to airline. To avoid problems at boarding, it's worth taking a close look at the most important hand luggage regulations.

In this guide, you'll find out which hand luggage dimensions are allowed, how heavy a cabin suitcase may be and which items are permitted or prohibited in hand luggage.

What counts as hand luggage?

Hand luggage means bags, trolleys or backpacks that you may take into the aircraft cabin. Most airlines allow at least one item of hand luggage, often plus a small personal bag.

Typical items of hand luggage

• Cabin suitcase
• Cabin trolley
• Backpack
• Laptop bag
• Handbag

Standard hand luggage dimensions

Many airlines base their rules on the classic hand luggage dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. However, the permitted sizes vary depending on the airline and the fare booked.

As hand luggage rules can change regularly, travellers should check the current requirements of their airline again before departure.

How heavy can hand luggage be?

With most airlines, the permitted weight for hand luggage is between 6 kg and 10 kg. Some low-cost airlines mainly check the dimensions, while premium airlines often check the weight too.

Tips for saving weight

• Choose a lightweight hardshell suitcase
• Put heavy items in your checked luggage
• Roll clothes to save space
• Only take the tech you really need

Liquids in hand luggage

Strict security rules apply to liquids in hand luggage. Liquids may usually only be carried in containers of up to 100 ml.

The most important liquid rules

• Maximum 100 ml per container
• All containers must fit into a transparent 1-litre bag
• The bag must be resealable
• Usually only one bag per person is allowed

This includes shampoo, toothpaste, creams, drinks and perfume, among other things.

What is allowed in hand luggage?

Many everyday items can be taken on board without any problem. However, regulations can differ depending on the airline and the security authority.

Items permitted in hand luggage

• Laptop and tablet
• Smartphone and power bank
• Headphones
• Documents and valuables
• Medication
• Clothing and travel essentials

What is prohibited in hand luggage?

For security reasons, certain items are always prohibited in hand luggage.

Prohibited items

• Weapons and ammunition
• Large knives and sharp objects
• Flammable substances
• Explosive materials
• Tools with long blades

Special rules sometimes also apply to power banks and batteries.

Cabin suitcases – which size is ideal?

A good cabin suitcase combines low weight, maximum use of space and sturdy workmanship. Cabin suitcases with 4 wheels and a TSA lock are particularly popular.

Popular hand luggage sizes

• 55 cm cabin trolley
• 40-litre cabin suitcase
• Business trolley for short trips
• Underseat bag for low-cost airlines

Hardshell or softside hand luggage?

Advantages of hardshell hand luggage

• Better protection for tech
• Water-repellent
• Sturdy and durable

Advantages of softside hand luggage

• More flexible when packing
• Easier-to-reach outer pockets
• Often lower weight

Tips for stress-free travel with hand luggage

• Check your airline's requirements before you travel
• Measure and weigh your hand luggage in advance
• Pack liquids separately
• Keep important documents close to hand
• Carry power banks in your hand luggage

Conclusion – Travel relaxed with the right hand luggage

If you know the current hand luggage rules, you'll save time, extra fees and stress at the airport. The right cabin suitcase also ensures more comfort and optimal organisation on the go.

When buying a cabin suitcase, look for the right dimensions, low weight and high-quality workmanship. That way you'll travel comfortably and safely with your hand luggage.