When traveling with Philippine Airlines, understanding the baggage rules can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free. Whether you're flying for business, vacation, or visiting family, knowing the baggage allowances for both carry-on and checked luggage is essential to avoid unexpected fees and delays at the airport. In this blog, we will guide you through the important baggage rules Philippine Airlines and share helpful tips for packing to ensure a smooth trip.
1. Philippine Airlines Baggage Allowance Overview
Philippine Airlines offers a flexible baggage allowance based on your flight class, destination, and frequent flyer status. Here’s a breakdown of the typical baggage rules for different classes:
- Economy Class: Passengers in Economy Class are generally allowed one checked bag with a weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Premium Economy: If you're traveling in Premium Economy, you’re typically permitted two checked bags, each weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Business Class: Business Class passengers can check two bags, each weighing up to 70 lbs (32 kg), giving you more flexibility to pack for longer trips.
- First Class: First Class travelers enjoy the same allowance as Business Class, with two checked bags, each with a weight limit of 70 lbs (32 kg).
Additionally, all passengers can carry one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag).
2. Carry-On Baggage Rules
Philippine Airlines allows each passenger to bring a carry-on bag along with one personal item. However, both items are subject to specific size and weight restrictions:
- Carry-On Baggage: The carry-on bag should not exceed the dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.
- Weight Limit: The weight of your carry-on should not exceed 15 lbs (7 kg).
- Personal Item: A personal item like a small backpack, laptop bag, or purse can also be carried and should fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
3. Checked Baggage Weight Limits and Fees
Philippine Airlines enforces strict weight limits for checked baggage, so it’s important to pack carefully:
- Economy Class: Passengers are allowed one checked bag with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Premium Economy: Premium Economy passengers can check two bags, each up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Business Class and First Class: Both Business and First Class passengers are permitted two checked bags, with each bag weighing no more than 70 lbs (32 kg).
If your checked baggage exceeds the weight limit, Philippine Airlines charges excess baggage fees. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on your route and how much your bag exceeds the allowable weight. It’s always a good idea to weigh your baggage before heading to the airport to avoid any unexpected costs.
4. Extra Baggage and Additional Fees
If you need to check more than the allotted number of bags, Philippine Airlines allows additional checked baggage for a fee:
- Extra Bags: Fees for extra checked bags generally range from $50 to $150 based on the route.
- Overweight and Oversized Bags: Bags that exceed the weight limit will incur extra fees, which can range from $50 to $100, depending on the weight overage. Similarly, oversized bags may attract additional fees based on size.
5. Special Baggage: Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Pets
Traveling with special items such as sports equipment or musical instruments? Philippine Airlines has specific rules for these types of baggage:
- Sports Equipment: Items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, or bicycles are allowed as checked baggage but may incur additional fees depending on size.
- Musical Instruments: Small musical instruments like violins or guitars can often be carried as part of your carry-on allowance if they fit within size limits. Larger instruments may need to be checked in, and an additional fee may apply.
- Pets: Philippine Airlines allows pets to travel either in the cabin (for small pets) or as checked baggage in the cargo hold. Pet travel must be booked in advance, and fees depend on the destination and size of the pet.
6. Tracking Your Baggage
Philippine Airlines offers baggage tracking services, so you can monitor your checked luggage throughout its journey. Simply use the airline’s mobile app or website to enter your baggage tag number and keep tabs on your luggage in real time.
7. Domestic vs. International Flight Baggage Rules
While the baggage allowance is generally the same for both domestic and international flights with Philippine Airlines, fees for extra or overweight baggage can vary depending on the flight's destination. For international flights, especially long-haul routes, excess baggage fees tend to be higher. It's always important to check the baggage policy for your specific route on Flightaura before booking to ensure you’re prepared.
8. Packing Tips to Avoid Extra Charges
To make the most of your baggage allowance and avoid excess charges, consider these helpful packing tips:
- Weigh Your Bags: Use a luggage scale to check the weight of your checked baggage before heading to the airport.
- Pack Light: Stick to essentials and avoid overpacking. Organizing your belongings with packing cubes can help you save space and stay within weight limits.
- Pre-Purchase Extra Allowance: If you know you’ll need additional bags or heavier luggage, it’s often cheaper to pre-purchase extra baggage allowance during the booking process rather than paying extra fees at the airport.
Conclusion
Navigating Philippine Airlines’ baggage rules is crucial for a smooth travel experience. By understanding the baggage allowances, weight limits, and fees for both carry-on and checked luggage, you can avoid surprises at the airport and make your journey more enjoyable. Don’t forget to check the latest baggage policy on Flightaura before your flight to ensure you’re fully prepared. Safe travels
