Packing for a flight should be simple, but it rarely is. One extra pair of jeans, that souvenir candle you got as a gift for someone, and suddenly your suitcase costs more than your weekend meals combined. Your wallet takes a hit before your trip even begins. Every traveler has been there.
Baggage rules are often ignored, yet they are one of the most common reasons passengers face unexpected airport costs. Policies vary not just by airline, but also by route, class, and loyalty status. What seems like a small detail can quickly turn into expensive fees that throw off your travel budget.
Here’s everything you need to know about flight baggage allowance, from weight and size limits to airline baggage fees, so you can travel smarter, save money, and start your trip on the right foot.
Your flight baggage allowance determines how much luggage you can bring on your journey. It includes both your carry-on baggage, which you take on board, and your checked baggage, which travels in the aircraft’s hold.
Airlines apply one of two systems. The weight concept, used mainly in Europe and Asia, limits the total weight you can check in, regardless of the number of bags. The piece concept, common in North America, limits how many bags you can check, with each bag restricted to a certain weight and size.
Each airline sets its own international flight baggage rules, meaning limits can vary depending on your carrier and destination. However, travelers are protected under EU Regulation 889/2002 and the Montreal Convention (1999) when baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged.
| Concept Type | Used Commonly In | Definition | Example Rule | Key Tip for Travelers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight Concept | Europe, Asia, the Middle East | Total weight limit for all checked bags combined, regardless of the number of pieces | 30 kg total per passenger | Distribute items across bags, but stay within the total weight |
| Piece Concept | North America, parts of South America | Fixed number of bags allowed, each with its own weight and size limit | 2 bags, up to 23 kg each | Check your ticket for the number of pieces and the weight per bag |
Cabin baggage, often called carry-on, is the small bag you bring into the aircraft cabin. Most European airlines set similar limits, allowing a bag around 55 x 40 x 23 cm and weighing7 to 10 kilograms. Some carriers are more generous, while low-cost airlines may charge extra or restrict both size and weight, so it’s always worth checking your ticket before traveling.
The European Union has been discussing new rules to make things simpler. As of 2024, there’s a strong push to create a standard carry-on baggage size across all EU airlines. The European Consumer Organization (BEUC) and members of the EU Parliament have urged for greater transparency in airline baggage policies, saying travelers deserve clear, consistent rules.
For now, each airline follows its own luggage policy, which also defines what counts as a personal item, often a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack that fits under your seat.
Most airlines apply similar checked baggage policies. Passengers traveling in Economy Class are usually permitted one bag weighing 20 to 23 kilograms, while Business Class travelers may carry 30 to 32 kilograms per checked bag. Knowing these limits helps you avoid costly surprises at the airport.
| Travel Class | Typical Allowance (per bag) | Excess Baggage Fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class | 20–23 kg | Charged per kilogram or per extra piece | Verify your airline’s weight or piece system |
| Business Class | 30–32 kg | Charged per kilogram or per extra piece | May include additional bags at no cost |
| Overweight/Extra Bags | Varies by airline | €10–€60 per kg (approx.) or flat rate per bag | Costs rise on international routes |
When baggage exceeds the permitted allowance, airlines charge excess baggage fees. These may be calculated by kilogram for every unit of weight over the limit, or per additional piece. The rates differ between carriers and routes, but even small overages can be expensive.
Although EU regulations do not specify standard baggage allowances, you still benefit from the provisions for lost, delayed, or damaged baggage. According to the Montreal Convention, airlines are liable for up to €1,300 per passenger, based on documented losses and receipts submitted with a claim.
If your baggage fails to appear on the carousel, you must immediately report at the airport and ask for a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before leaving. This document serves as your official record and will be necessary if you later seek compensation.
Every airline has its own baggage policy, and the differences can affect your total travel cost. Here’s an easy guide comparing baggage rules by major carriers worldwide.
Passengers get a 1 × 23 kg checked bag on most fares; “Economy Light” offers none. Business Class includes 2 × 32 kg. Cabin limits: 8 kg + personal item. A solid choice for full-service comfort.
Standard fares include 1 checked bag (23 kg). Light fares exclude checked baggage but allow online add-ons. Premium Economy and Business passengers receive 2–3 bags (23–32 kg each) depending on the route.
Economy includes 1 × 23 kg, except for hand-baggage-only fares. Premium Economy offers 2 × 23 kg, and Business jumps to 2 × 32 kg. Cabin: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item. Transparent at booking, which many travelers appreciate.
Turkish Airlines is among the most generous ones. 30 kg Economy, 40 kg Business, and even more on certain intercontinental flights. A top pick for heavy packers or long-haul travelers.
Budget fares include only a small under-seat item. Priority passengers can add one 10 kg cabin bag. Checked bags up to 23 kg are available for a fee. Prices vary widely by route and season.
Standard Economy allowance: 1–2 bags up to 23 kg each, depending on route. Business and First Class: 2 × 32 kg. Generous cabin limit of 7 kg + personal item. Emirates is consistently ranked among the most baggage-friendly carriers.
Economy: 25–30 kg checked depending on destination. Business: 40 kg or 2 × 32 kg. Cabin allowance ranges 7 to 15 kg. Flexibility and service make Qatar a preferred carrier for long-haul flights.
Economy checked bags cost around $30–35 for up to 23 kg. Premium and elite travelers usually get one or two included pieces. Cabin limits: 1 carry-on + 1 personal item. Policies differ slightly per route, so always double-check.
The European Commission continues to press airlines to display baggage allowances clearly at the time of booking, helping travelers understand exactly what’s covered in their fare and what may cost extra later.
Always check your airline’s baggage policy before you buy. It takes two minutes, and it can save you that awkward check-in counter moment where you’re pulling shoes out of your suitcase to make weight.
To stay clear of excess baggage fees, start by packing strategically. Choose lightweight bags, use compression cubes, and weigh everything with a digital luggage scale before leaving home.
Buy baggage allowance online instead of at the airport. Airlines usually charge less when you pre-pay, making it one of the easiest ways to save money on travel.
If your trip includes connecting flights, always read the baggage rules for each carrier. EU and non-EU airlines often follow different standards. Watch out for codeshare flights, even if your booking says Lufthansa, the flight might be operated by United, meaning United’s baggage policy applies.
EU Regulation (EC) No 889/2002, reflecting the Montreal Convention, ensures strong passenger protection if your baggage is lost, delayed, or damaged. You may receive up to €1,300 per passenger, depending on proven loss value and submitted evidence.
To start the process, immediately file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport. Retain all receipts and documentation related to replacement items or repair costs.
Also, note the scope of EU laws:
For claims involving flight delays or cancellations, Click2Refund helps you get what you deserve under EU law —fast, simple, and stress-free.
Smart travel way before you book the tickets or start your journey at the airport. Baggage limits, size restrictions, and hidden fees may seem like small details, but they can make or break a smooth trip. Each airline plays by its own policies, so understanding your allowance helps you stay in control and avoid unnecessary costs.
Flight disruptions happen, but losing time and money doesn’t have to be part of the deal. Click2Refund helps air passengers claim compensation when flights are delayed, cancelled, or overbooked under EU Regulation 261/2004. Our team manages the entire process for you, from eligibility checks to successful payouts, so you don’t have to navigate legal jargon or chase airlines for answers.
It’s fast, transparent, and entirely performance-based. You pay nothing unless we win your claim. We take all the heavy lifting, from filing claims, arranging paperwork, preparing your case, and then finally helping you get your precious dollars back.
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Yes. If your journey involves multiple airlines, the baggage rules of the operating carrier (the airline actually flying the segment) usually apply — even if your booking shows another airline’s name (e.g., a Lufthansa ticket operated by United).
Immediately report the issue at the airport by completing a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Under the Montreal Convention (1999) and EU Regulation 889/2002, you can claim up to €1,300 per passenger for lost, delayed, or damaged baggage — based on documented proof of loss.
If your bags exceed the allowed weight or number, airlines charge either: