No-baggage fares: what you can take and how to add baggage
What a no-baggage fare means, what you can bring into the cabin for free, three ways to add baggage and when a basic fare is not worth it.
The lowest price in a search often belongs to a "no baggage" fare. It does not mean you cannot bring anything with you, but you need to know the rules in advance, or at the airport you will pay at an inflated rate.
What "no baggage" means
A no-baggage fare includes only carry-on items, and you cannot check a suitcase at the desk for free. The rest depends on the airline and the specific fare:
- one small bag or backpack under the seat (low-cost carriers allow exactly this for free, with strictly limited dimensions);
- sometimes a separate carry-on piece in the cabin (up to 5-10 kg);
- personal items: a bag with documents, an umbrella, baby food and outerwear.
The exact allowances are in the fare terms and your ticket. For sizes see carry-on size and weight.
What you can take into the cabin for free
- A bag or backpack within the size limits of your fare.
- A handbag or a briefcase with documents: usually allowed in addition (check with the carrier).
- Outerwear, a laptop in a case and a stroller (under the carrier's rules).
- Duty-free goods bought after security.
Liquids in carry-on are limited: under international rules, in containers of no more than 100 ml, in a clear bag. Medicines and baby food are exceptions, but it is worth confirming them with documents in advance. See liquids in carry-on.
How to add baggage
There are three ways, and prices differ:
- When buying the ticket: the best value, with the lowest price.
- In the airline's online account or with the agent after buying, before check-in: a little more expensive.
- At the desk at the airport: as a rule the highest price, with no guarantee that space is still available.
The rule is simple: if you need baggage, add it right away. You can compare the total prices with baggage in the search on Aviasales with the "with baggage" filter.
Which is better: a fare with or without baggage
Compare two scenarios: "a cheap fare plus baggage" and "a fare with baggage". The basic fare plus baggage often ends up more expensive than the ordinary one. This matters if you need a suitcase: for a week's holiday, in winter, with a child. If you fly for 2-3 days with a backpack, the basic fare really saves money. For baggage allowances and prices see checked baggage rules.
Common mistakes
- Assuming that carry-on is always 10 kg. Low-cost carriers allow much less.
- Forgetting that the allowances there and back may differ.
- Not checking the size of the bag before the flight: you will have to measure it at the desk or the gate.
- Not counting the cost of baggage when comparing with a charter or a fare with baggage. For charters see charter flights explained.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a backpack on a no-baggage ticket?
Yes, if it fits the carry-on allowance of your fare. Usually it means a small backpack under the seat. Check the dimensions with the airline.
How much does it cost to add baggage?
The price depends on the carrier, the route and the moment of purchase. It is cheapest to add baggage when you book the ticket and more expensive at the desk at the airport.
Can I add baggage after buying the ticket?
Yes, in most cases on the airline's website in the booking management section or through the agent you bought from. Availability depends on the fare.
What happens if I arrive with baggage on a no-baggage ticket?
You will be asked to pay for carriage at the airport rate, which is as a rule the highest. If you cannot pay, you will have to leave your things.
Read next
Liquids in carry-on: the 100 ml rule and what you can take on a plane
How the 100 ml liquids rule works, what counts as a liquid, what is allowed above the limit and how to pack carry-on so you pass security without losses.
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.