How strict is Emirates with carry on?

Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Henry @ The Getaway Lounge

This post is reviewed on a regular basis to ensure a high level of accuracy.

How strict is Emirates with carry on?

Just how strict is Emirates with carry on size and weight?

It’s a question we hear all the time in the international travel community, and here’s the latest.

Emirates are relatively strict and state that your carry on bag must not exceed 55cm by 38cm by 22cm and so be small enough to easily fit in the overhead compartment or underneath the seat in front of you. A weight limit of 7kg is also applied.

And if you’re looking for a compliant bag which fits almost to perfection, we recommend this great value range on Amazon.

Emirates main carry on policy

Emirates have a main carry on policy as follows:

55 x 38 x 22 cm (22 by 15 by 8 inches)

This includes any wheels or handles, and your bag must not exceed 7kg / 15lb.

And it’s the same for all ticket types whether you’re flying economy, business or first class.

The only differences in terms of free cabin baggage is that you are also allowed a smaller item if you’re flying business or first class.

For more details regarding Emirates smaller item policy please see this page on their website.

My main bag is slightly over-sized, should I risk it?

This is probably the most common question we hear when it comes to Emirates carry on policy.

And there’s only one simple answer.

Rules are rules and if you fail to comply you will run the risk of having to pay extras.

Money that could have been invested in a decent bag for years to come!

That said, if you have a soft-edged bag which is only slightly oversized (like a backpack), you have a better chance of being able to squeeze your luggage into the sizer, if required to.

If you’ve got a hard case and that’s oversized, there’s no way you’ll be able to squeeze it through the dreaded cage – and so you won’t get away with it.

My main bag is slightly overweight, should I risk it?

It’s rare for airlines to investigate the weight of your hand luggage.

That said, it’s worth weighing your main bag just in case – as you should stick within the 7kg limit wherever possible.

But don’t worry too much if it’s slightly over – just be prepared to stick on some of your bulky clothing to bring the weight down in the unlikely event you’re checked and over the limit!

Does checking-in online make a difference?

Absolutely – by checking-in online you’re more likely to breeze through the gate.

By not checking-in online, you give yourself a better chance of being asked questions at the Emirates desk!

Besides, you should always check-in online if you plan on taking hand luggage only.

This way, you’ll have more time to get through security and relax before your flight.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Emirates have rules which you must adhere to, otherwise you’ll risk having to pay extra.

With that said, if you’ve already got a soft-edged bag which is slightly oversized, you shouldn’t worry about that too much.

Just make sure you leave enough room in your bag to squeeze the content into the rectangular sizer if needs be!

If you’re still unconvinced, then we recommend you pay for checked baggage.