The Ultimate European Carry-On Checklist

What is NOT Allowed in your Hand Luggage

Even seasoned travelers sometimes forget that certain items are banned from the cabin. Avoid delays at security by leaving these at home or packing them in checked baggage:

• Weapons & sharp objects – Includes knives, pepper spray, darts, machetes, and toy weapons.

• Hazardous materials – Flammable liquids, gas cartridges, camping stoves, spray paint.

• Bulky sports gear – Golf clubs, skis, hiking poles, skates, tents.

• Selfie sticks – Some airlines and airports prohibit them as potential hazards.

• Extra bags – Once you’ve hit your carry-on limit, items like belt bags may be refused unless they fit in your personal item.

What You Can Bring On Board

Most everyday travel items are fine to carry:

• Clothing, shoes, and outerwear

• Electronics such as laptops, cameras, chargers

• Baby gear – strollers, wraps, car seats, and baby food

• Medical aids – canes, crutches, small medical devices

• Grooming items – nail files under 4 cm, disposable razors, umbrellas

Liquids in Hand Luggage

For most flights within and from Europe, the liquid rule is strict but simple:

• 100ml maximum per container

• All liquids must fit into one 1-liter clear, resealable plastic bag

• Applies to toiletries, cosmetics, and liquid foods like yogurt or jam

• Certain cosmetics (lipstick, balm) may be excluded from the liquid count, but always check your airline’s guidelines

Carry-On Size and Weight Rules for Flights from the US to Europe

When flying from the United States to Europe, carry-on rules differ between airlines—and between US and European carriers. Knowing the limits can help you avoid extra fees and last-minute gate-checking.

United Airlines

• Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm)

• Personal item: Fits under the seat

• Weight limit: None (must lift into overhead bin yourself)

• Notes: Basic Economy on transatlantic flights still includes a carry-on

Delta Air Lines

• Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 23 cm)

• Personal item: Included with all fares

• Weight limit: None for US departures

• Notes: All fares to Europe include a carry-on

American Airlines

• Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)

• Personal item size: 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)

• Weight limit: Not specified

• Notes: Basic Economy to Europe includes a carry-on

JetBlue

• Carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)

• Personal item: Included

• Weight limit: Not specified

• Notes: Blue Basic now includes a carry-on to Europe; overhead space not guaranteed

Air France

• Cabin bag: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 in)

• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 in)

• Weight limit: Economy/Premium Economy 12 kg (26 lbs); Business/La Première 18 kg (40 lbs)

British Airways

• Cabin bag: 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 in)

• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 in)

• Weight limit: 23 kg (51 lbs) for each item

Lufthansa

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm

• Weight limit: 8 kg (17 lbs) for Economy/Premium; two 8-kg bags for Business/First

• Notes: Garment bag allowed if within 57 x 54 x 15 cm

SWISS

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm

• Weight limit: 8 kg (17 lbs) for Economy/Premium; two 8-kg bags for Business/First

TAP Air Portugal

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 25 cm

• Weight limit: 10 kg (22 lbs)

• Notes: Some fares include an extra personal item

Aer Lingus

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 24 cm

• Weight limit: 10 kg (22 lbs); Regional flights limited to 7 kg (15 lbs)

• Personal item: Small under-seat item included

Virgin Atlantic

• Carry-on size: 56 x 36 x 23 cm

• Weight limit: Economy/Premium 10 kg (22 lbs); Upper Class two bags combined 16 kg (35 lbs)

Atlantic Airways

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 25 cm

• Weight limit: 8 kg (17 lbs)

• Personal item: Laptop bag or similar included

Iberia

• Carry-on size: 56 x 40 x 25 cm

• Personal item: 40 x 30 x 15 cm

• Weight limit: Economy/Premium 10 kg (22 lbs); Business 14 kg (31 lbs) and often two bags on long-haul

Air Canada

• Carry-on size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in)

• Personal item: 43 x 33 x 16 cm (17 x 13 x 6 in)

• Weight limit: None

• Notes: All fares to Europe include a carry-on, even Basic

Pro Packing Tips for European Trips

• Use packing cubes to save space and keep items organized

• Wear your bulkiest layers on the plane to free up bag room

• Keep essentials—passport, wallet, electronics—in your personal item for easy access

• Double-check your airline’s baggage page before you fly, especially if traveling on a codeshare flight

Frequently Asked Questions About European Carry-On Rules

Q: Can I bring a carry-on and a personal item on all flights from the US to Europe?


A: Yes—most airlines allow both a carry-on bag and a personal item, even on Basic Economy transatlantic fares. However, weight limits can be much stricter on European carriers, so always check your airline’s rules before flying.

Q: What’s the maximum carry-on weight for flights to Europe?


A: US airlines like United, Delta, and American generally have no official weight limit for carry-ons. European airlines such as Lufthansa, SWISS, and TAP typically limit carry-ons to 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs). British Airways is more generous, allowing up to 23 kg (51 lbs) per item.

Q: Are liquids rules different when flying to Europe?


A: No—the standard 100ml per container rule applies, with all liquids fitting in a 1-liter clear resealable bag. This rule is enforced at both US and European security checkpoints.

Q: Can I take food in my carry-on to Europe?


A: You can bring snacks and packaged foods, but restrictions apply to fresh meat, fish, dairy, and certain produce when entering the EU or UK. Always check the customs guidelines for your destination.

Q: Which US airline has the most generous carry-on allowance for Europe flights?


A: British Airways offers one of the most generous allowances with two cabin items, each weighing up to 23 kg. Among US carriers, American, Delta, and United all allow a standard-sized carry-on and personal item with no listed weight limit.

Q: What happens if my carry-on is overweight or oversized at the gate?


A: It may be gate-checked, and some airlines charge extra fees—especially on lower fare classes. Arriving at the gate within the size and weight limits helps avoid these charges.