China Southern Airlines Carry-On Size & Personal Item Rules (2025 Guide)

Quick Answer
✅ China Southern allows 1 carry-on bag plus 1 personal item in Economy.
✈️ Size limit: 22 x 16 x 8 in (55 x 40 x 20 cm).
⚠️ Weight limits: 11 lbs (5 kg) for Economy, higher in Business and First Class.


Details

  • Carry-on allowance:
  • Economy: 1 bag up to 22 x 16 x 8 in (55 x 40 x 20 cm), max 11 lbs (5 kg).
  • Premium Economy/Business: 2 bags, each up to 22 lbs (10 kg).
  • First Class: 2 bags, each up to 33 lbs (15 kg).
  • Personal item:
  • 1 smaller item (handbag, laptop, duty-free bag).
  • Must fit under the seat.
  • Checked baggage:
  • Economy fares typically include 1 piece (50 lbs / 23 kg) on most international routes.
  • Allowance increases for higher cabin classes.
  • International flights:
  • Same rules system-wide, though some regional/domestic routes may be stricter.

China Southern Carry-On Rules Summary

ClassBags AllowedSize Limit (in/cm)Weight Limit
Economy1 carry-on + 1 personal22 x 16 x 8 (55 x 40 x 20)11 lbs (5 kg)
Premium/Business2 carry-ons + 1 personal22 x 16 x 8 (55 x 40 x 20)22 lbs (10 kg) each
First Class2 carry-ons + 1 personal22 x 16 x 8 (55 x 40 x 20)33 lbs (15 kg) each

Gotchas / Common Issues

  • ✈️ Strict weight enforcement: Economy’s 5 kg (11 lbs) rule is much lighter than U.S./European airlines.
  • ✈️ Two-bag rule: Only Business and First may bring 2 carry-ons.
  • ✈️ Regional jets: Smaller aircraft may require gate-checking bags.

Sources