When flying from or within Malaysia, having the right-hand luggage — also known as cabin or carry-on luggage — is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. Whether you're flying with Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Batik Air, or any other carrier, it's important to understand each airline’s specific rules on cabin bag size and weight. Getting it wrong could mean paying extra charges or being asked to check in your bag at the gate.
To avoid last-minute hassle, always check your airline’s hand luggage policy before packing. This will help you make the most of your cabin allowance and keep all your essentials within reach during the flight. Here’s what every Malaysian traveller should know to pack their carry-on bag smartly and travel stress-free.
What is Hand Carry Luggage?
Source: Travel Weekly
Hand carry luggage, also known as cabin luggage or carry-on luggage, refers to the items you are allowed to bring with you into the aircraft cabin when flying. For Malaysian travellers, this is the bag you’ll keep close during your flight, either stored in the overhead compartment or placed under the seat in front of you.
Typically, Hand carry luggage includes essential items such as your laptop, travel documents, toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and some snacks. It’s especially important for short-haul flights or when you want to avoid waiting for checked luggage upon arrival. Keeping your most important belongings in your carry-on ensures they’re easily accessible throughout your journey.
Top 10 Popular Airlines: Carry-On luggage Rules Compared
Source: Innovate 360
When flying from Malaysia or planning international travel, it's important to be aware of the different carry-on luggage rules set by each airline. The size, weight limit, and allowance for personal items can vary, especially in Economy Class. Here's a comparison of carry-on luggage restrictions for 10 popular airlines among Malaysian travellers:
| Airline | Economy Class Size (cm) | Weight Limit | Personal Item Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
Singapore Airlines | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 kg | 1 item (e.g., laptop bag or handbag) |
EVA Air | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 kg | 1 item for Economy Class; 2 items for Business Class |
Cathay Pacific | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 kg | 1 item (must fit under the seat; backpack or small bag) |
Japan Airlines | 55 x 40 x 25 | 10 kg | 1 cabin bag + 1 small personal item |
Vietnam Airlines | 56 x 36 x 23 | 12 kg | 1 carry-on bag + 1 accessory (e.g., handbag or laptop) |
Malaysia Airlines | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 kg | 1 item for Economy Class; 2 items for Business Class |
StarLux Airlines | 56 x 36 x 23 | 7 kg | 1 item for Economy Class; 2 items allowed in Business Class |
Shenzhen Airlines | 20 x 40 x 55 | 5 kg | 1 item for Economy Class; 2 items for Business Class |
Emirates | 55 x 38 x 20 | 7 kg | 1 cabin bag + 1 personal item (e.g., handbag or laptop bag) |
British Airways | 56 x 45 x 25 | 23 kg | 1 cabin bag + 1 personal item (generous allowance for Economy Class) |
2025 Carry-On Updates for Special Items (New Regulations for Malaysian Travellers)
| Item Type | New 2025 Regulation Highlights |
|---|---|
Baby Products | Liquid milk allowance increased to 5 bottles, up to 200ml each |
Electronic Cigarettes | Must be stored in a fireproof container (can be purchased at most duty-free shops) |
Sports Equipment | Foldable scooters are allowed only if they weigh 8 kg or less |
Before flying, always double-check your airline’s current carry-on luggage rules to avoid any last-minute surprises. Being prepared helps ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience — especially for Malaysian travellers heading abroad.
Hand Carry Luggage Restrictions: What Malaysian Travellers Should Not Bring
Source: Travelpro
When packing your hand luggage for a flight from or within Malaysia, it’s important to be aware of items that are strictly prohibited in the cabin due to safety regulations. To avoid delays at airport security or the risk of having your belongings confiscated, take note of the following items that are not allowed in your carry-on bag:
Prohibited Items for Hand Carry Luggage
1. Offensive Weapons
Items such as firearms, axes, shovels, baseball bats, screwdrivers, chains, and other dangerous tools are strictly not allowed in the aircraft cabin. These items are considered potential threats to passenger safety.
2. Sharp Objects
Knives, scissors, nail clippers, nail files, tweezers, ice picks, and other objects with sharp or pointed edges are not permitted in hand luggage. These items should be packed in checked luggage if necessary.
3. Sports Equipment
Items such as golf clubs, baseball bats, hockey sticks, or billiard cues are not allowed in the cabin, as their size and rigidity can be seen as a safety risk.
4. Selfie Sticks & Tripods
According to aviation safety rules, selfie sticks or tripods that have a diameter larger than 1 cm or are longer than 60 cm when folded are not permitted in hand luggage. Always check the size before bringing them on board.
5. Long-Handled Umbrellas
These are considered potential weapons and are not allowed as cabin luggage. To avoid issues, bring a compact foldable umbrella, which is travel-friendly and usually accepted as either hand-carry or checked-in luggage.
What to Do If Your Hand Carry Luggage Is Overweight
Source: Upgraded Points
For Malaysian travellers, it’s important to be mindful of your cabin luggage weight before heading to the airport. If your hand carry luggage exceeds the airline’s weight or size limit, you may be required to check it in — and this could come with additional fees or delays. To avoid such inconveniences, always review your airline’s luggage policy in advance. Weigh your hand luggage at home to ensure it complies with the allowed limit, especially when flying with budget carriers like AirAsia or Batik Air, where strict enforcement is common.
How to Avoid Excess Luggage Fees at the Airport
1. Purchase Extra Luggage in Advance
Buying additional luggage allowance online before your flight is usually much cheaper than paying at the airport. Many airlines offer discounted rates on pre-booked luggage, sometimes up to 50% less than airport prices. Whether you need more carry-on or checked luggage, booking in advance saves money and stress. If you're booking through platforms like Trip.com or airline websites, look out for luggage add-ons during the booking process.
2. Share Luggage Weight with Family or Friends
If you’re travelling with a group, make use of your combined luggage allowance. If one person’s bag is overweight, but another still has unused allowance, redistribute the items across all bags. This is a simple way to avoid paying unnecessary excess luggage fees.
3. Switch to a Lightweight Bag
Instead of using a bulky hard-shell suitcase, consider travelling with a backpack or soft-sided cabin bag. Backpacks are usually lighter and easier to manage, helping you stay within the weight limit. This can make a significant difference, especially on low-cost carriers where every kilogram counts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hand Carry Luggage
Where can I place my hand carry luggage on the plane?
You can store your hand carry luggage in the overhead compartment directly above your seat. If your bag is small enough, you may also place it under the seat in front of you for easy access during the flight.What should I do if my hand carry luggage is overweight?
If your hand carry luggage exceeds the airline’s permitted weight or size, you will likely need to check it in as checked baggage. This may involve additional charges, so it's best to weigh your bag before heading to the airport.Can I bring food in my hand carry luggage?
Yes, most airlines departing from Malaysia allow you to bring your own food on board. However, if you're bringing liquids such as sauces or drinks, they must be in individual containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear resealable plastic bag.