Baggage: the small print with wheels.

Three pieces, three questions

A personal item is often intended to fit below the seat. Cabin baggage goes into an overhead compartment when the carrier and fare allow it. Checked baggage is handed over before security and collected at arrival. The names sound standard, but dimensions, weight, number of pieces and included services vary widely.

Check the exact allowance in the current booking or airline baggage page. Measure the bag including wheels and handles if the carrier says so. A bag that fits at home can still be over a limit once packed.

• Read the fare-specific allowance
• Measure and weigh before leaving
• Keep medicines, documents and valuables in the bag you can access

Restricted items and liquids

Security rules limit some items for safety. Liquids, aerosols, sharp objects, batteries, sports equipment and tools can have different treatment in cabin and checked baggage. Airport security instructions and official aviation guidance are the right source for current details, especially when travelling through more than one airport.

Pack so that a screening officer can understand what you are carrying. Keep essential medication in its original packaging where practical and carry any supporting documentation required for your circumstances.

Special baggage and a problem at arrival

Sports equipment, musical instruments, wheelchairs, child equipment and fragile items often need advance arrangements. The airline may have separate forms, packaging expectations or charges; do not assume that a general checked-bag allowance covers them.

If a bag is delayed or damaged, report it at the airport baggage desk before leaving the collection area when possible. Keep the property irregularity reference, baggage tag and receipts. Remedies and timelines vary, so use the airline and relevant official passenger-rights information rather than expecting an automatic outcome.