When booking a flight with Avianca Airlines, understanding their baggage rules is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Whether you’re packing for a short domestic trip or heading to an international destination, knowing the Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy can save you from surprises and additional charges. Avianca Airlines offers different baggage allowances based on your ticket class, route, and destination. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Avianca’s baggage allowances for both carry-on and checked baggage, so you can pack wisely and travel with ease.
Overview of Avianca Airlines Baggage Rules
Avianca Airlines’ baggage rules differ based on various factors, including the fare class, route, and type of flight. For both domestic and international flights, the airline provides specific guidelines for carry-on bags, checked luggage, and special items such as sports equipment or musical instruments. Knowing the correct baggage size and weight restrictions will help you avoid extra charges and ensure a smooth check-in process.
In general, Avianca allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item for free, but the size and weight limits must be followed. For checked luggage, passengers are allowed a certain number of bags depending on the class of service, with additional fees for excess weight or size.
Carry-On Baggage Guidelines for Avianca Passengers
Avianca allows passengers to carry one piece of luggage as a carry-on and one personal item for free. However, both items must meet specific size and weight restrictions to avoid fees.
Carry-On Bag
Avianca’s carry-on baggage policy includes guidelines for the maximum size and weight of your carry-on luggage. The standard size limit for a carry-on bag is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm), and it must not exceed 10 kg (22 pounds) in weight. It’s essential to ensure that your carry-on meets these requirements before you head to the airport.
Personal Item
In addition to your carry-on bag, Avianca allows one personal item, such as a backpack, laptop bag, or purse. The personal item should not exceed the dimensions of 10 x 10 x 8 inches (25 x 25 x 20 cm). While there is no strict weight limit for personal items, they must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
If your carry-on bag or personal item exceeds the allowed size or weight, you may be required to check it in, and extra charges will apply.
Avianca Checked Baggage Allowance
Avianca’s checked baggage rules vary depending on the fare class and destination of your flight. Typically, checked baggage allowances are more generous for business class passengers compared to those flying economy.
Economy Class Baggage
Economy class passengers are usually permitted to check one bag for free, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag. The dimensions for checked baggage must not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm), which is calculated by adding the length, width, and height of your luggage. If your checked bag exceeds this limit, you may be subject to oversized baggage fees.
Business Class Baggage
For business class passengers, Avianca offers a more generous checked baggage allowance. Business class travelers are typically allowed two pieces of checked luggage, each weighing up to 70 pounds (32 kg). Just like economy class, the combined dimensions of both bags should not exceed 62 linear inches (158 cm). Additional bags or overweight baggage will incur extra charges.
Excess Baggage Fees and Charges
If your luggage exceeds the allowed weight or size limits, Avianca Airlines charges excess baggage fees. The fees depend on the weight and size of your bags, as well as your flight route.
Excess Weight
For economy class passengers, the fee for each extra bag or overweight checked luggage can range between $50 and $150, depending on the route and the excess weight. For business class passengers, the excess weight fees are generally higher, especially for bags weighing more than 70 pounds (32 kg).
Oversized Baggage
If your checked luggage exceeds the maximum dimensions of 62 linear inches (158 cm), you will be required to pay an oversized baggage fee. These fees can vary significantly depending on the route and can range from $100 to $200 per bag.
To avoid these fees, it’s always recommended to weigh and measure your baggage before heading to the airport to ensure it adheres to Avianca’s baggage rules.
Special Items and Exceptions
Avianca Airlines allows travelers to carry certain special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices. However, each of these items comes with its own set of guidelines and may incur additional charges.
Sports Equipment
Avianca permits passengers to carry sports equipment like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and bicycles, but these items may require a special handling fee. In most cases, sports equipment counts as part of your checked baggage allowance, but additional charges may apply based on the weight and dimensions of the items.
Musical Instruments
Traveling with musical instruments is also allowed by Avianca. If your musical instrument is small enough, it can be carried as part of your carry-on baggage. Larger instruments may need to be checked in or require you to purchase an additional seat for the instrument.
Medical Devices
Passengers traveling with medical devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, or oxygen equipment can usually carry these items for free. Avianca recommends notifying them in advance of any medical equipment, as there may be specific rules or arrangements to ensure safe travel.
Tips for Packing Efficiently with Avianca Airlines
Packing smartly can help you avoid unnecessary baggage fees and make your travel experience much easier. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when preparing for your trip with Avianca:
- Check Your Baggage Allowance – Always review your baggage allowance based on your ticket type and route. Avianca’s policies can differ depending on the class of service and destination.
- Weigh Your Bags – Before heading to the airport, weigh your checked baggage to ensure it’s within the weight limits. A portable luggage scale can help avoid any surprises at check-in.
- Pack Light – Pack only the essentials and consider using a carry-on bag to avoid checked baggage fees altogether. Many travelers find that packing light can save both time and money.
- Plan for Special Items – If you’re carrying sports equipment, musical instruments, or medical devices, notify Avianca in advance and be aware of any extra fees that may apply.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Avianca Airlines’ baggage rules can make your journey much smoother and help you avoid unexpected fees. Whether you’re bringing a carry-on or checking in a bag, knowing the size and weight limits for your baggage will allow you to pack confidently. Remember, Avianca’s baggage policies can vary depending on the fare class, route, and special items you may be carrying, so always review the details before your flight. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive baggage guide, you can ensure a hassle-free check-in process and enjoy your travel experience with Avianca. Safe travels!
