Carry On

South African Airways hand luggage size (cabin bag)

The South African Airways (SAA) carry-on size limit is 22 × 14.2 × 9.1 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm), 17.6 lb (8 kg). Enter your bag below to see if it fits, and by how much.

Carry-on limit
22 × 14.2 × 9.1 in
56 × 36 × 23 cm
Personal item limit
15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in*
40 × 30 × 15 cm · guideline, not published
Weight limit
17.6 lb
8 kg
Carry-on on the cheapest fare
Carry-on included on all fares

Your bag

Check as

Common bag sizes

Measure the outside of the bag, packed, including wheels, handles and pockets.

Enter all three dimensions to see results.

Rules to know

  • No official personal item dimensions are published. It must fit under the seat in front of you.

A standard 22 × 14 × 9 in (55.9 × 35.6 × 22.9 cm) bag fits within the South African Airways carry-on limit.

Frequently asked questions

What is the South African Airways hand luggage allowance?

Carry-on included on all fares. The cabin bag limit is 22 × 14.2 × 9.1 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm), 17.6 lb (8 kg), and you can also bring a personal item up to 15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in (40 × 30 × 15 cm).

How strict is South African Airways about carry-on size?

South African Airways publishes a 22 × 14.2 × 9.1 in (56 × 36 × 23 cm) limit and may check bags at the gate, especially on full flights. Bags that clearly exceed the limit are gate-checked.

Do wheels and handles count toward the South African Airways carry-on size?

Yes. Measure the bag at its longest, widest and deepest points, including wheels, handles and any pocket that sticks out.

Is there a weight limit for South African Airways carry-on bags?

Yes. The carry-on weight limit is 17.6 lb (8 kg).

What counts as a personal item on South African Airways?

A purse, laptop bag, small backpack or similar bag that fits under the seat in front of you. No exact size is published, so aim for a bag under 15.7 × 11.8 × 5.9 in (40 × 30 × 15 cm).

Is a carry-on free on South African Airways?

Yes. One carry-on and one personal item are included on every fare.

Data reviewed September 2026 against the official South African Airways baggage page. Airlines change rules. Confirm on the official page before you fly.Official baggage policy