China Travel Tips: China Carry-On Rules & Family Packing Guide (2025 Update)
Traveling to China soon? Whether you’re visiting family, exploring culture, or heading out on mission or ministry, knowing China travel baggage rules—especially for domestic flights—is key to stress-free family travel. If you’re a parent (or traveling with little ones), we’ve also included child-friendly packing tips and carry-on compliant luggage with Amazon links to make your journey smooth.
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Quick Look: China Flight Baggage Rules
- Smoking & E-Cigarettes: Prohibited on all flights. Must be in carry-on. Never to be used or charged in flight.
- Power Banks: Only in carry-on. Max 100 Wh without approval; 100–160 Wh requires airline consent. Above 160 Wh (Including 160Wh) not allowed*.
*Make sure to double check specific airline luggage restrictions before travel
International Flights Into/Out of China
- Carry-On: 1 bag (max 7 kg), within 56×36×23 cm
- Checked Bags: Usually 1×23 kg (economy), 2×23 kg or more for premium
- Infants: May include 1 stroller + 10 kg bag, depending on airline
Domestic Flights (Within China)
- Carry-On: Strict—only 5 kg, size limits similar to international
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy: 20 kg
- Business: 30 kg
- First: 40 kg
Important: Budget airlines like Spring Airlines or China United may not include checked baggage in base fares—check your ticket carefully.
Best Travel Gear for Smooth China Travel
1. Cabin-Approved Carry-On (Light & Legal!)
Look for a bag under 2.5 kg to stay under China’s strict carry-on limit:
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch, Powder Blue
- Super lightweight
- Meets international and Chinese airline dimensions
- TSA lock for peace of mind
- Overall Size: 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10.0″ – designed to meet most international cabin restrictions
- Interior: 19.5″ x 14.5″ x 10.0″ with elastic straps, divider, and internal pouch for organized packing
2. Underseat Backpack for Parents or Long Haul
- Compact and functional
- Laptop protection
- Water-resistant and travel-tested
3. Digital Luggage Scale
- Avoid overweight baggage fees
- Lightweight and reliable
4. Travel Essentials for Kids
- Overhead bin-sized stroller
- Lightweight (5.9 kg) and compact fold
Major Chinese Airlines: Baggage Rules & Loyalty Programs
China Eastern Airlines (MU)
- Economy: 20 kg checked (domestic), 1×23 kg (international)
- Carry-on: 1×8 kg; First Class: 2×10 kg
- Infants: 10 kg allowance + stroller China Eastern Baggage Info
Air China (CA)
- Star Alliance member
- 1×23 kg checked; 5–8 kg carry-on
Air China Baggage Info
China Southern Airlines (CZ)
- Oneworld affiliate
- 1×23 kg checked; ~5 kg carry-on
China Southern Baggage Info
Shanghai Airlines (FM)
- Operates under China Eastern policy
Shanghai Airlines Info
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Want more helpful family guides? Explore our Summer 2025 Family Travel Essentials Guide
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