Also known as cargo or hold luggage, checked baggage is what's transported in the cargo hold of the aircraft. You have to check it at the airport, and pick it up once you land. Different airlines have different limits on baggage size, so we'll show you the size allowed for your itinerary.

Yes, a hold bag is exactly the same as a checked bag. These terms are used interchangeably depending on where you are in the world. "Hold bag" is the standard terminology used in the United Kingdom, Europe, and by international airlines like British Airways or Ryanair, referring to the "cargo hold" of the aircraft where the luggage is stored. "Checked bag" is the more common term in the United States and Canada. In both cases, these are bags that you hand over to the airline at the check-in desk or self-service bag drop before you pass through security. They are subject to specific weight limits (typically 23kg or 32kg) and size restrictions. Unlike your "carry-on" or "hand luggage," you will not have access to your hold/checked bag during the flight. In 2026, many airlines use digital tags or RFID tracking to allow you to monitor your "hold" bag's progress through the airport system via their mobile app.