Premium Airline Baggage Policies Explained

Navigating airline baggage policies can be a challenging task, even with premium airlines. Each premium airline has distinct rules regarding hand luggage and checked-in baggage. This can significantly influence your travel experience. Understanding these policies ensures that you’re well-prepared, avoiding unexpected fees or inconveniences at the airport.

In this guide, we break down the baggage allowances for some of the world’s leading airlines, helping you plan and pack with confidence.

Premium Airline-Specific Baggage Policies

Each premium airline sets unique baggage policies that travellers need to comprehend. These policies differ significantly between airlines, impacting baggage allowance and potential costs.

Understanding these differences is crucial. It helps avoid surprises at the airport and aids in planning your packing strategy. Let’s delve into the specifics of major airlines’ baggage allowances.

Premium Airline Baggage Policies

Alaska Airlines Baggage Allowance

Alaska Airlines offers generous carry-on baggage allowances. Their checked baggage policies can vary based on your destination and fare class. Consider joining their frequent flyer program for additional perks.

Hand Luggage

• All classes: 1 carry-on bag plus 1 personal item, dimensions up to 55 x 35 x 22 cm.

Checked-In Luggage

• Both Economy and Business: Standard allowance is 23 kg per piece. Additional charges applying for more than two checked bags.

View Alaska Airlines’ baggage policy

American Airlines Baggage Allowance

American Airlines has robust baggage policies. Domestic flights usually charge for checked bags. International routes, however, often include free baggage allowances depending on fare classes.

Hand Luggage

• All classes: 1 carry-on (dimensions: 56 x 36 x 23 cm) and 1 personal item, such as a handbag or laptop case.

Checked-In Luggage

• Economy: Typically 1 piece up to 23 kg, but fees may apply based on route and fare type.
• Business: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg, with variances depending on route.

View American Airlines’ baggage policy

British Airways Baggage Allowance

British Airways offers a balanced baggage policy. Premium economy and business class passengers benefit from more substantial allowances. The specifics can differ with international versus domestic flights.

Hand Luggage:

• 1 carry-on bag (56 x 45 x 25 cm) plus 1 personal item (40 x 30 x 15 cm). Max combined weight: 23 kg.

Checked-In Luggage:

• Economy: 1 piece up to 23 kg (varies by ticket type).
• Business (Club Europe/World): 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.

View British Airways’ baggage allowance

Delta Baggage Allowance International

Delta provides clear policies for international baggage. They frequently offer two checked bags for free on transatlantic routes. Membership in their SkyMiles program can also offer additional benefits.

Hand Luggage

• All classes: 1 carry-on bag (dimensions: 56 x 35 x 23 cm) and 1 personal item. Delta typically don’t have an enforced weight restriction.

Checked-In Luggage

• Economy: 1 piece up to 23 kg, depending on ticket type and route.
• Business: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg, depending on route.

View Delta’s baggage policy

Emirates Baggage Allowance

Emirates is known for its generous baggage policies. Passengers on long-haul flights often receive higher allowances. Check Emirates’ policy on multiple stops, as allowances can vary by segment.

Hand Luggage

• Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag up to 7 kg (dimensions: 55 x 38 x 20 cm).
• Business Class: 2 pieces (a briefcase of 45 x 35 x 20 cm and a handbag of 55 x 38 x 20 cm), each weighing up to 7 kg.

Checked-In Luggage

• Economy Class: 1 piece, up to 23 kg on most routes (some routes allow 2 pieces).
• Business Class: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg, depending on the route.

View Emirates’ baggage policy

Lufthansa Baggage Allowance

Lufthansa aligns their baggage policies with European standards. Economy passengers typically receive one free checked bag. Higher fare classes and status members enjoy additional perks.

Hand Luggage:

• Economy: 1 carry-on bag (55 x 40 x 23 cm) up to 8 kg, plus 1 personal item.
• Business: 2 carry-on bags of the same size and weight.

Checked-In Luggage:

• Economy: 1 piece up to 23 kg.
• Business: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.

View Lufthansa’s baggage policy

Qatar Airways Baggage Allowance

Qatar Airways offers generous baggage allowances on many routes. Business and first-class passengers enjoy expanded benefits. Regular updates can affect these policies, so always double-check before flying.

Hand Luggage

• Economy Class: 1 piece up to 7 kg (dimensions: 50 x 37 x 25 cm).
• Business Class: 2 pieces with a combined weight of up to 15 kg, each with dimensions up to 50 x 37 x 25 cm.

Checked-In Luggage

• Economy Class: 1 or 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg, depending on the route.
• Business Class: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg, with allowances varying by route.

View Qatar Airways’ baggage policy

Baggage Allowance TUI

TUI offers a straightforward baggage policy. Their allowances often depend on the fare type you choose. It’s best to check their website for the most current information before your trip.

Hand Luggage:

• 1 carry-on bag (55 x 40 x 20 cm) up to 10 kg. No additional personal item allowed.

Checked-In Luggage:

• Economy: 1 piece up to 20 kg (depends on ticket).
• Business: Policies may differ; confirm with TUI for business upgrades or packages.

View TUI’s baggage policy 

Turkish Airlines Baggage Allowance

Turkish Airlines often has favorable baggage policies, especially on international flights. Business class travelers enjoy more considerable allowances. Frequent flyer members may also benefit from additional allowances.

Hand Luggage:

• Economy: 1 carry-on bag (55 x 40 x 23 cm) up to 8 kg, plus 1 personal item.
• Business: 2 carry-on bags, each up to 8 kg, plus 1 personal item.

Checked-In Luggage:

• Economy: 1 piece up to 23 kg (varies by route).
• Business: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.

View Turkish Airlines’ baggage policy

Virgin Baggage Allowance

Virgin Atlantic provides competitive baggage allowances. Economy travelers can bring one checked bag for free on certain routes. Their Upper-Class passengers enjoy more generous baggage privileges.

Hand Luggage:

• 1 carry-on bag (56 x 36 x 23 cm) up to 10 kg, plus 1 personal item.

Checked-In Luggage:

• Economy: 1 piece up to 23 kg (2 pieces for Premium Economy).
• Business (Upper Class): 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.

View Virgin’s baggage policy

Conclusion

Understanding premium airline baggage policies is key to a seamless travel experience. By familiarizing yourself with the specific allowances and restrictions of your chosen airline, you can avoid last-minute surprises. Ensuring compliance, and maximising your benefits, especially in premium classes.

Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, staying informed will help you pack efficiently and make the most of your journey. Safe travels!