Checked baggage rules: weight, size and cost
How much checked baggage is allowed, how size limits work, how much extra baggage costs, what not to pack and how to prepare a suitcase.
Checked baggage is what you hand in at the check-in desk and collect from the belt at the arrival airport. The rules depend on the airline and the fare, so read the terms before buying a ticket.
How many kilograms are allowed
Typical allowances:
- Economy with baggage: one piece up to 20-23 kg.
- A basic fare: no baggage, and carriage costs extra.
- Business class: more often 2 pieces of up to 32 kg each.
- A weight or a piece system: on international flights the "piece concept" (for example 1PC) often applies, and on domestic routes a weight system.
If the weight is exceeded you pay for every extra kilogram, as a rule at high rates. The exact values are in your ticket. Do not count on a "standard": it differs between carriers.
Baggage size
The limit is usually the sum of three dimensions (length plus width plus height), roughly 158-203 cm for one piece. Oversized items (skis, musical instruments, a bicycle) are carried under separate rules and for a fee.
How much paid baggage costs
The price depends on the carrier, the route and the moment of payment. Guides by scenario:
- When you buy the ticket: the best value.
- After buying, online: a little more.
- At the airport: the highest price.
More in no-baggage fares: what you can take and how to add baggage.
What not to put in checked baggage
- Power banks and lithium batteries: they must be carried in the cabin only.
- Valuables, documents, medicines and keys: take them with you in the cabin.
- Dangerous goods: flammable liquids, gas canisters, explosive and toxic substances.
- Perishable food: the risk that it will spoil if there is a delay.
How to prepare your baggage
- Weigh the suitcase at home: a mistake of a couple of kilograms is expensive.
- Attach a tag with your contacts inside and outside.
- Photograph the suitcase and its contents: it will help if baggage is lost.
- Keep the baggage receipt (the tag) until you have your things.
- Pack fragile items in soft clothing and protect the zips.
Baggage on a connection
If the ticket is single, baggage is usually checked through to the final point. If the tickets are separate, at the connection you will have to collect the suitcase and check it in again: see flights with a layover.
Frequently asked questions
How much does carrying baggage on a plane cost?
It depends on the airline, the route and the moment of purchase. It is cheapest to pay for baggage when you book the ticket and more expensive at the airport desk.
What baggage weight is allowed?
Usually 20-23 kg per piece in economy class. On a basic fare baggage may be paid. Go by the terms of your ticket.
Can I carry a power bank in checked baggage?
No, lithium batteries and power banks are carried in the cabin only. The permitted capacity is limited by the carrier's rules.
What if my suitcase is heavier than the limit?
Move some items to your carry-on or pay for the excess. It is cheaper to buy extra weight in advance on the airline's website.
Compare fares with baggage in the HotTrip flight search.
Cover: photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels
Read next
No-baggage fares: what you can take and how to add baggage
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