I'm flying a longhaul CX flight (economy) and I understand that we are allowed one carry on not to exceed 7kg, but it seems there are exemptions such as laptops and cameras.

I currently have a bag (its an expandable leather breifcase) that weighs in at about 7kg without my laptop. I can fit my laptop into the bag, but that would easily make me exceed the weight limit.

Should I keep the laptop in the bag and take it out if they want to weight it (since its an exemption), or should I just keep the laptop in its own separate bag (which will be less than the 9lb limit).. and ill just have an extra bag to carry around. btw. I'll also have a small camera bag.. (I didnt read any limitations regarding the numbers of exemptions on the website.. so I assume this is a non issue)

The Cathay Pacific Airways website has provided very good write-up on the Cabin Baggage:

For all classes, each passenger (except infants) can enjoy a free baggage allowance of one cabin bag not exceeding 56x36x23cm (22x14x9 in) in size. These dimensions include wheels, handles and side pockets. Different travel classes have different weight limits: First Class - 15kg (33 lbs), Business Class - 10kg (22 lbs), Economy Class - 7kg (15 lbs). *

In addition to the above allowance, you may carry onboard the following items free:
- An overcoat or shawl
- A small handbag
- A briefcase (no more than 4kg or 9lbs in weight)
- A notebook or laptop computer (no more than 4kg or 9lbs in weight, including case and accessories)
- A small camera or a pair of binoculars
- An umbrella / walking stick / crutches
- A "forward facing" infant car safety seat for ticketed child (aged between 6 months and 3 years) or infant bassinet or cot (that can fit on fold down shelves and can be properly secured)
- Infant food and nappies (for consumption in flight)
- An infant collapsible pushchair (if cabin stowage is available)

Doc,

you are allowed a bag and a "small personal item" with laptop okay as long as the size and weight are in line - hclee01 was kind enough to post the details.

You may not have problems with too much weight in a bag departing the US - I've yet to see it enforced leaving the US.

HOWEVER, they very strictly enforce both dimensions and max weight per bag (both carry on and checked) coming out of Asia.

I think for CX MPOs they generally a bit relaxed about it.

They can give you a special Orange Tag in HKG to get through security it the dimensions are outside (or if you have an extra bag).

I never got stopped by carrying too much carryon baggages.

Normally I have a trolley bag, a small duffle bag and also a garment or laptop bag. However I always need to get an orange tag.

Doesn't CX have elite status-based cabin baggage allowance?

First Class / Diamond in any class / Invitation in any class: 15kg
Business Class / Gold in Y / Silver in Y: 10kg
Economy Class: 7kg

Does anyone know if MPO members can get an orange tag for oversized luggage if they're travelling in economy? I've only ever got one when tavelling in business. But since the orange tags are issued at check in, and MPO members can use the business class check in, my guess is it should be possible regardless of which class you're travelling?

Yes you can. But you'd have to go to the MPC check in area and they need to verify your status before they can give you the orange tag - and provided the item you're carrying isn't a bullock cart!

They actually provide the orange tags to other passengers that have odd shape items to carry on (on all Class) eg. Violin, pram, etc....

But don't over abuse the sytem as it is clearly said on the tag it is still up to the DISCRETION on the F/A on the flight.