China Southern Airlines hand luggage and carry-on allowance
China Southern allows one piece of carry-on baggage of up to 5 kg in Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class, with length + width + height of no more than 115 cm. First Class passengers may bring two pieces. The same limits apply on domestic and international flights. Check your own bag against it below.
Carry-on baggage
China Southern Airlines hand luggage and carry-on rules
- Carry-on baggage, domestic and international/regional flights: First Class up to 2 pieces; Business, Premium Economy and Economy Class 1 piece. Maximum weight 5 kg per piece.
- Maximum dimensions per piece: the sum of the three sides must not exceed 115 cm (about the size of a 20-inch suitcase).
- Items over the weight, number or size limits should be checked at the check-in counter or self check-in kiosk in advance; excess is charged under the excess baggage rules.
- China Southern may inspect baggage at check-in, security, the boarding gate and in the cabin, and decides whether baggage travels as carry-on or checked.
- Free extra items besides the carry-on allowance: a coat, shawl or rug; an umbrella or cane; binoculars; a reasonable amount of reading material; a handbag for normal travel cosmetics; food for infants on board; a baby carry basket and foldable lightweight pram or stroller; and mobility aids for passengers who depend on them.
- Passengers seated near emergency exits, including the first row, must put baggage in the overhead bin.
- Checked baggage (maximum acceptable): domestic 50 kg per piece; international/regional 45 kg per piece with a US destination, 32 kg per piece otherwise. Free allowance depends on route and fare: for example Economy Standard on many long routes is 1 piece of 23 kg, higher Economy fares 2 pieces of 23 kg, Business 2 pieces of 32 kg, First 3 pieces of 32 kg; domestic free allowance is 20 kg in Economy.
- Note: the China Southern baggage rules document we used is stated as effective from 24 May 2022; check your ticket and China Southern before you fly, as allowances can change.
Source: Baggage Rules (PDF) | China Southern Airlines. Checked 10 October 2026.
Remember that the liquids rule that applies to you is set by the airport you fly from, not the airline. Check your departure airport before you pack.
Frequently asked questions
What is the China Southern carry-on size limit?
The sum of the three sides must not exceed 115 cm, about the size of a 20-inch suitcase.
What is the China Southern carry-on weight limit?
5 kg per piece, on domestic and international flights.
How many carry-on bags can I bring on China Southern?
One piece in Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class, and two pieces in First Class, plus certain free items such as a coat, umbrella and a handbag for travel cosmetics.
What happens if my China Southern carry-on is too heavy?
Items over the limits must be checked at the check-in counter or self check-in kiosk; excess baggage charges apply under China Southern's excess baggage rules.