Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy

Packing for a flight with Avianca can feel simple—until you start wondering whether your bag qualifies as a carry-on, how much a checked bag costs, or what happens if your luggage is overweight. The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy depends on fare type, route, and even the aircraft, which means understanding the rules before you head to the airport really matters.

This guide breaks everything down clearly: carry-on limits, checked baggage fees, special items, and helpful tips so you’re not surprised at check-in or the gate.

How Avianca Structures Its Baggage Policy

Avianca operates as a full-service airline with multiple fare families. Unlike airlines that include baggage automatically, Avianca often separates baggage allowances from the base ticket price.

The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy is influenced by:

Fare class selected
Domestic vs international routes
Cabin class
Loyalty program status

Two passengers on the same flight may have very different baggage entitlements.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Standard Carry-On Rules

Most Avianca passengers are allowed:

One carry-on bag
One personal item

The carry-on must fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item must fit under the seat.

Typical size limits include:

Carry-on bag: up to 22 x 14 x 10 inches
Personal item: small backpack, purse, or laptop bag

The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy enforces these limits strictly at the gate.

Carry-On Weight Restrictions

Unlike some airlines, Avianca also applies weight limits to carry-on bags on many routes.

Maximum carry-on weight is usually around 10 kg (22 lbs)
Personal items should remain light and manageable

Overweight carry-ons may be required to be checked, often with a fee.

Carry-On Rules by Fare Type

Basic and Promotional Fares

Carry-on allowance may be limited
Some fares include only a personal item
Full carry-on may require an extra purchase

Classic and Flex Fares

One carry-on and one personal item included
More flexibility at boarding

Always confirm your fare details under the Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy before packing.

Manually Edited, Conversational Paragraph

This is the moment many travelers recognize too late. You packed light, skipped checked baggage, and felt confident—until the gate agent asks you to weigh your carry-on. Suddenly, that “small” bag isn’t so small anymore. The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy doesn’t leave much room for guessing, especially on busy routes. Knowing the exact size and weight rules ahead of time can save you both money and embarrassment at the gate.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Standard Checked Bag Limits

Checked baggage rules depend heavily on your fare type.

Typical limits include:

Maximum weight: 23 kg (50 lbs)
Maximum size: 158 cm (62 linear inches)

Anything exceeding these limits may incur additional charges.

Checked Baggage by Fare Type

Basic Fares

Checked baggage usually not included
Bags must be purchased separately
Fees vary by route

Classic Fares

One checked bag may be included
Additional bags incur fees

Flex and Business Fares

One or more checked bags included
Higher weight allowances may apply

The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy rewards higher fare classes with greater baggage flexibility.

Checked Baggage Fees

Checked baggage fees vary based on:

Route (domestic vs international)
Fare family
When the bag is purchased

Purchasing baggage online in advance is usually cheaper than paying at the airport.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage

Overweight Bags

24–32 kg bags may be accepted with a fee
Bags exceeding weight limits may be refused

Oversized Bags

Items exceeding size limits may incur high fees
Some oversized items may not fit on smaller aircraft

The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy strictly enforces safety and space limitations.

Special Baggage Items

Sports Equipment

Avianca typically accepts:

Golf clubs
Surfboards
Bicycles
Skis and snowboards

Fees and acceptance depend on size, weight, and aircraft type.

Musical Instruments

Small instruments may be carried onboard if they meet size limits. Larger instruments may:

Require advance approval
Be checked as special baggage
Require an extra seat purchase

Traveling With Infants and Children

Passengers traveling with infants may bring:

Strollers
Car seats
Diaper bags

Many of these items are checked free of charge, depending on the route and fare. Always confirm details under the Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy.

Medical and Mobility Equipment

Medical devices and mobility aids such as:

Wheelchairs
Walkers
CPAP machines

are usually transported without additional fees when properly declared.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Avianca restricts or prohibits:

Lithium batteries beyond limits
Flammable materials
Sharp objects in carry-ons

Always review safety guidelines before packing.

Gate-Checked Bags

On full flights:

Carry-ons may be gate-checked
Bags are returned at baggage claim or aircraft door
Fees may or may not apply depending on fare

Gate-checking is common and not always a penalty under the Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy.

Baggage on Connecting Flights

For multi-segment itineraries:

Baggage rules may follow the most significant carrier
Fees may differ on return flights
International connections may require re-checking bags

Always review the full itinerary baggage rules.

Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage

If baggage issues occur:

Report immediately at the airport
File a claim before leaving baggage services
Keep all baggage tags and receipts

Claims must be filed within specific deadlines.

Tips to Avoid Baggage Problems

Measure and weigh bags at home
Purchase baggage online in advance
Pack essentials in your personal item
Label bags clearly
Arrive early for international flights

Preparation makes the Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy much easier to navigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Avianca allow a free carry-on?

It depends on fare type. Some basic fares include only a personal item.

Are carry-ons weighed?

Yes, on many routes, carry-on weight limits are enforced.

Can I prepay checked baggage?

Yes, prepaying online usually saves money.

What happens if my bag is overweight?

Additional fees apply, or the bag may be refused.

Final Thoughts on Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy

The Avianca Airlines Baggage Policy is straightforward once you understand how fare types affect baggage allowances. While lower fares limit what you can bring, higher fares provide flexibility and peace of mind.

The key is planning ahead. Knowing your baggage allowance before packing helps you avoid last-minute fees, delays, and frustration—so your trip starts on the right note.