Airline Hand Luggage and Suitcase Size Guide
Planning a trip in 2026 requires special attention: although standard dimensions remain mostly unchanged, the real news this year is the tightened security checks. Many airlines have introduced automated scanners at gates that allow no margin of error (even just one centimeter on a wheel).
Additionally, 2026 marks the consolidation of the European minimum standard (40x30x15 cm for the free personal item) and the spread of new 3D scanners in airports, which finally allow you to carry liquids over 100ml in hubs like Rome Fiumicino, Milan Linate, and London.
Low-Cost Airlines (2026 Standard)
In this category, the "large hand luggage" (trolley) is almost always charged or included only with "Priority" fares.
| Airline | Under-seat (Free) | Overhead Trolley (Priority) | Maximum Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40 × 20 × 25 cm | 55 × 40 × 20 cm | 10 kg (Trolley) |
| easyJet | 45 × 36 × 20 cm | 56 × 45 × 25 cm | 15 kg |
| Wizz Air | 40 × 30 × 20 cm | 55 × 40 × 23 cm | 10 kg |
| Vueling | 40 × 30 × 20 cm | 55 × 40 × 20 cm | 10 kg |
| Volotea | 35 × 20 × 20 cm | 55 × 40 × 20 cm | 10 kg |
Flag Carrier Airlines (2026 Standard)
"Full service" airlines usually include both pieces of luggage in the standard ticket.
| Airline | Personal Item | Overhead Trolley | Total Allowed Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| ITA Airways | 45 × 36 × 20 cm | 55 × 35 × 25 cm | 8 kg |
| Lufthansa | 40 × 30 × 10 cm | 55 × 40 × 23 cm | 8 kg |
| Air France / KLM | 40 × 30 × 15 cm | 55 × 35 × 25 cm | 12 kg (Combined) |
| British Airways | 40 × 30 × 15 cm | 56 × 45 × 25 cm | 23 kg |
| Emirates | — | 55 × 38 × 22 cm | 7 kg |
| Delta / American | 45 × 35 × 20 cm | 56 × 35 × 23 cm | Usually unlimited |
The 3 Golden Rules for 2026
- Under-seat Standard: To ensure your backpack passes for free on any European airline, aim for a model 40x30x15/20 cm.
- Wheels and Handles: Digital scanners measure total dimensions. Make sure wheels are included within the 55 cm of your trolley.
- Liquid Rules: In major hubs (Fiumicino, Linate), you can keep liquids in your bag, but at smaller airports, the 100ml limit still applies.
Note: Always check the official guidelines of the airline before traveling, as luggage dimensions may vary depending on aircraft type or travel class. Galise declines any responsibility for changes or discrepancies.