When traveling in and through China, it is important to understand the baggage restrictions in place before arriving at the airport. China Highlights has prepared this information to guide you through the baggage restrictions on international and domestic flights during your travels in China.
Carry-on Baggage: How Much Can You Bring?
The maximum carry-on baggage allowance varies by airline. Travelers should do a thorough search after buying their tickets for the specific regulations of their chosen airline.
In general, the carry-on item dimensions are designed to ensure bags fit either under the seat or in the overhead compartment.
The total weight of your carry-on item can be anywhere from 5 kg – 8 kg, depending on the airline and the class of travel you choose.
Often, first-class passengers are allowed 2 pieces of carry-on luggage, while economy class passengers are allowed 1 piece.
Carry-on baggage in excess of the limits of the airline is subject to an excess baggage fee and might be checked if there is no room in the cabin.
Carry-on baggage is limited to a total dimension (length + width + height) of 115 cm (approximately 45 inches).
These requirements apply to both international and domestic flights.
How Much Luggage Can You Check In?
International Flights
Limitations on checked baggage vary by airline and by travel class when traveling internationally through China. You should look into the unique restrictions in place for their specific airlines.
Adults and children are entitled to a free checked bag with most airlines. The weight and dimensions of this bag are often varied by airline and travel class. In economy class, you’re generally allowed either two bags up to 23 kg each, or one bag up to 32 kg for economy class (this varies by the flying route).
Infants without a seat get one free checked bag (max 10 kg, total size ≤ 115 cm) plus one foldable stroller at no extra charge.
If you are planning to take large souvenirs home with you, it is suggested that you look into mailing your items home instead of placing them in checked baggage.
Domestic Flights
When traveling domestically within China, the checked baggage limitations are also varied by airline and travel class.
In most cases, passengers are allowed one free checked bag so long as it meets the size and weight requirements of the airline. Adults and children are entitled to a free checked bag with most airlines.
An example of how the weight limitations vary by travel class is as follows:
- China Southern Airlines: 40 kg for First Class; 30 kg for Business Class; 20 kg for Economy Class.
Infants don’t get a free baggage allowance, but you can check in one foldable stroller for free.
What You Can’t Put in Checked Baggage
For safety reasons, certain items are not allowed in checked baggage:
- Flammable or explosive items, such as lighters, matches, fireworks, gasoline, and paint thinner
- Compressed gases, including spray cans, camping gas canisters, and oxygen tanks
- Lithium batteries and power banks (these must be carried in your hand luggage and meet airline limits)
- Live animals, unless approved and transported under specific airline procedures
- Hazardous substances, such as toxic or corrosive chemicals, strong magnets, and radioactive materials
Regulations may vary slightly depending on the airline or destination, so it’s always best to check with your airline before your trip.
The latest rules for carrying power banks on planes
Power banks must be placed in carry-on baggage.
Only power banks with a visible “3C certification mark” are allowed. The 3C (China Compulsory Certificate) is a safety standard for electronic devices.
Most airlines allow no more than two power banks per passenger.
Capacity requirements:
- ≤ 100Wh (≈ 20,000mAh at 5V): Allowed without prior approval.
- 100Wh–160Wh (≈ 20,000–32,000mAh at 5V): Must be declared and approved by the airline/security.
- >160Wh: Strictly forbidden on any flight.
Additional Information
The requirements of each airline will vary. Here are the official websites of some popular Chinese airlines.
You can find more detailed and specific baggage and check-in rules for each airline there: China Eastern Airlines, Air China, China Southern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines.
