Baggage Policy Guide

Effective date: May 7, 2026

Baggage rules are set by the operating airline, not by Aviafares. This guide explains how to find the rules for your specific ticket and avoid surprise fees.

Where your rules come from

Every ticket has a "fare basis" that determines:

• How many carry-on bags you can bring (usually 1 personal item + 1 overhead bag, but basic-economy fares often exclude the overhead bag).
• How many checked bags are included (usually zero for domestic US economy, 1–2 for long-haul economy and all business/first fares).
• What you'll pay per additional checked bag and per overweight bag.

Your Aviafares confirmation email lists these rules per passenger. If anything is unclear, call our booking team.

Common carry-on limits (US carriers)

• Personal item: 18 × 14 × 8 inches, must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Overhead bag: 22 × 14 × 9 inches, up to about 40 lbs.

International carriers vary. European low-cost airlines are often stricter (e.g. Ryanair's 15 lb overhead limit). Always check your specific airline's baggage allowance before you leave home.

Checked baggage fees

Fees change frequently. A representative sample for 2025 on US domestic economy:

• First bag: $30–$45 online, $35–$50 at the airport
• Second bag: $40–$50
• Third and subsequent: $150 each
• Overweight (50–70 lbs): $100 extra
• Oversize: $150–$200

Prepay to save money

Most airlines discount the first bag fee when you prepay online 24+ hours before departure. Our booking team can prepay baggage on your PNR when you call.

Special items

Ski equipment, musical instruments, pets, strollers, and medical equipment all have their own rules per airline. Our agents know the policies and can add notes to your PNR so check-in goes smoothly.

Lost or damaged bags

Report loss or damage at the airline's baggage office in the arrival airport BEFORE leaving. Once you leave airport property, most airlines consider the claim closed. Keep your baggage claim receipt and boarding pass.