In this guide, I detail Virgin Atlantic’s baggage allowance, covering hand luggage size and weight limits for different fare classes. I also explain rules regarding contents and liquids. Additionally, discover top product recommendations fitting Virgin Atlantic’s specs and find answers to common questions about their baggage policy.
Who’s behind these travel insights?
I’m Sebastian, your luggage expert since 2017. On my site, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations for the perfect travel baggage.
Virgin Atlantic Hand Luggage
The amount of luggage you can bring on your flight depends on the fare you’ve booked:
Economy (Light, Classic & Delight) or Premium
Upper Class
Additional Items for All Passengers
- Overcoat or wrap
- Umbrella or non-sharp walking stick
- Small camera or binoculars
- Flight reading material
- Infant food for flight
- Duty-free items (small quantity)
- Headphones
Economy & Premium
For those travelling in Economy (Light, Classic & Delight) or Premium with Virgin Atlantic, you’re entitled to one piece of hand luggage. This must not exceed dimensions of 56x36x23 cm and should weigh no more than 10 kg.
In addition, you can bring along one personal item, such as a handbag or a laptop bag, provided it fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.
Upper Class
As an Upper-Class passenger on Virgin Atlantic, you have the luxury of carrying two pieces of hand luggage. Each piece can measure up to 56x36x23 cm, with a combined weight limit of 16 kg and a single item not exceeding 12 kg.
Plus, you’re also allowed one personal item that must fit under the seat ahead, ensuring your essentials are within easy reach throughout your flight.
Size Limit for Personal Item
Virgin Atlantic hasn’t defined exact measurements for personal items, yet they must be compact enough to fit under the seat and designed for daily use, not as surplus storage to your main baggage. For context, other airlines usually allow personal items in the range of 40x30x10 cm to 40x30x20 cm.
Source: help.virginatlantic.com
All details are given without warranty.
Virgin Atlantic Checked Baggage Allowance
The number and weight depend on the fare:
For those flying with Virgin Atlantic, the checked luggage allowance varies depending on the fare type. If you need more than what’s included in your allowance, you can pay to add extra baggage, with the option to add up to seven extra bags per person when you check in online.
The maximum allowed size for Virgin Atlantic checked baggage is up to 90x75x43 cm (35.5×29.5×16 in).
Source: help.virginatlantic.com
All details are given without warranty.
Virgin Atlantic Cabin Bag 56x36x23
Recommendations for the perfect carry-on suitcase
When choosing the larger Virgin Atlantic hand luggage, I recommend a suitcase measuring 55x35x20 cm. While this doesn’t fully utilise the allowed dimensions, it ensures compatibility with most other airlines, as the generally accepted standard size for hand luggage is 55x40x20 cm.
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Best Suitcases for Virgin Atlantic
My Recommendations for Check-In Luggage
For those flying with Virgin Atlantic, finding the perfect check-in suitcase is key. I’ve sifted through the current bestsellers and selected the 10 best suitcases, detailing their pros and cons to help you choose with confidence.
Prohibited Items in Virgin Atlantic Cabin Bags
Heed these hand luggage restrictions
Confused about what’s not allowed in your Virgin Atlantic hand luggage? Like all airlines, Virgin Atlantic prohibits carrying items deemed dangerous or weapon-like. Sometimes, it’s not always clear if certain items fall into these categories. In these cases, airport security personnel make the final call. Below is an initial list of items to be aware of:
A detailed list with explanations and graphics can be found in this post:
Liquids in Virgin Atlantic Hand Luggage
What is allowed?
At most british and international airports, liquids in hand luggage are currently limited by the 100ml rule, requiring them in containers no larger than 100ml within a transparent, 1-litre bag. By June 2024, the UK plans to abolish this rule, with London City, Teeside International, and Jersey airports already allowing up to 2-litre containers.
However, as many international airports haven’t yet upgraded to the necessary technology, the 100ml rule will also remain vital for future travel outside the UK. Here’s a brief overview of the 100ml rule:
- Only containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml are allowed.
- All containers must be packed in a transparent, resealable 1-litre plastic bag.
- The plastic bag must be fully sealed.
- Each passenger is allowed only one bag.
- The number of containers is not limited as long as the total volume does not exceed 1 litre.
To adhere to the 100ml rule as effectively as possible, consider purchasing dedicated toiletry bags for your liquids. Bags that come equipped with bottles are particularly useful for decanting personal care products.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Clear Toiletry Bag 20x20 cm | £4.88 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
MOCOCITO Toiletry Bag with 8 Bottles | £9.98 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Frequently Asked Questions
About Virgin Atlantic hand luggage
How strict is Virgin Atlantic with their carry-on baggage policy?
Virgin Atlantic’s enforcement of hand luggage regulations can vary, influenced by factors like the airport, the discretion of staff, flight occupancy, and the time available for checks. To avoid the risk of having to check in your luggage with associated fees, it’s best to comply strictly with the airline’s size and weight limits for carry-on items.
What happens if hand luggage is too big?
If your hand luggage exceeds Virgin Atlantic’s size limits, even slightly, you may be required to check it in and pay additional charges. The degree of leniency shown by staff can vary, so it’s advisable to adhere closely to the specified dimensions. While minor excesses in size are often overlooked and not every bag is measured, it’s unpredictable how staff will act in any particular case. Assess the risk for yourself when deciding whether to push the size limits.
How is the hand luggage size checked?
The size and weight of hand luggage for Virgin Atlantic flights are usually checked at the check-in counters, often using a baggage sizer to ensure compliance with the airline’s dimensions. While rigorous checks on every item are not always conducted, staff judgement plays a significant role. Be prepared for luggage checks that may also happen during boarding or when entering the aircraft, as the exact procedure can differ based on the airport and the staff involved.
Does hand luggage size include wheels?
Yes, the size specifications for hand luggage with Virgin Atlantic include wheels, handles, and any other external parts of the luggage. It’s important to consider these elements when selecting a bag to ensure it fits within the airline’s size restrictions.
