Turkish Airlines Baggage Policy

Packing for a trip can be exciting—but only if you know exactly what you’re allowed to bring. One of the most common travel frustrations happens at the airport check-in counter when baggage rules aren’t clear. To help you avoid surprises, this detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the Turkish Airlines baggage policy, including baggage allowance, weight limits, fees, special items, and helpful packing tips.

Turkish Airlines is one of the world’s leading carriers, flying to hundreds of destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. While the airline offers generous baggage allowances compared to many competitors, the rules vary based on route, fare type, and cabin class. Understanding these details ahead of time can save you time, money, and stress.

Overview of the Turkish Airlines Baggage Policy

The Turkish Airlines baggage policy is designed to accommodate different traveller needs while maintaining safety and efficiency. Baggage allowances depend on several factors:

Cabin class (Economy or Business)
Route (domestic or international)
Fare type (EcoFly, ExtraFly, PrimeFly)
Frequent flyer status (Miles&Smiles Elite/Elite Plus)

Turkish Airlines uses both the piece concept and the weight concept, depending on the destination.

Carry-On (Cabin) Baggage Allowance

Turkish Airlines allows passengers to bring cabin baggage onboard free of charge, provided it meets size and weight limits.

Economy Class Carry-On

1 cabin bag
Maximum weight: 8 kg (17 lbs)
Size limit: 55 x 40 x 23 cm

Business Class Carry-On

2 cabin bags
Each bag up to 8 kg (16 kg total)
Same size restrictions apply

Personal Item

In addition to cabin bags, all passengers may bring one small personal item (max 4 kg, 40 x 30 x 15 cm), such as:

Laptop bag or handbag
Small camera or tablet
Umbrella (without a sharp tip)

Checked Baggage Allowance Explained

The checked baggage rules under the Turkish Airlines baggage policy depend on whether your flight follows the piece concept or the weight concept.

Piece Concept (Common on International Routes)

This applies mostly to flights to/from the Americas and certain African destinations.

Economy Class: 1 or 2 bags, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
Business Class: 2 bags, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

Weight Concept (Common on Domestic and Other Routes)

On many international routes (Europe, the Middle East, Asia), you are given a total weight allowance regardless of the number of pieces.

Economy Class: Typically 20–30 kg depending on the fare.
Business Class: Typically 30–40 kg.

Domestic Flight Allowances (Turkey)

Business: 30 kg
PrimeFly: 25 kg
ExtraFly: 20 kg
EcoFly: 15 kg

Maximum Size and Weight Restrictions

Even within allowed limits, individual bags must meet size and weight rules.

Maximum Dimensions: Total dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 158 cm.
Weight Limit: Regardless of allowance, a single bag cannot exceed 32 kg due to health and safety regulations. Anything heavier must be split into two pieces.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Turkish Airlines is highly accommodating for hobbyists:

Golf & Skiing: The first set of golf or ski equipment (up to 23 kg) is carried free of charge on international flights.
Musical Instruments: Small instruments (like violins) can be carried as cabin baggage if they fit the dimensions. For larger instruments (up to 75 kg), you can purchase an extra seat.
Bicycles: Can be carried for a special fee (often free on certain international promotional routes).

Excess Baggage Fees

If your baggage exceeds the free allowance, extra charges apply.

Domestic: Approximately TRY 12–18 per kg, depending on the flight type.
International: Fees vary significantly by "Region." For piece-concept routes, an extra bag can cost between $160 and $250.
Prepaid Advantage: Buying extra weight online via the Turkish Airlines website or app is usually 10–20% cheaper than paying at the airport.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety, certain items are restricted:

Lithium Batteries: Spare batteries and power banks must be in carry-on baggage only.
Liquids: The 100ml rule applies to all cabin baggage.
Prohibited: Flammable substances, sharp objects (knives/scissors over 6cm), and self-balancing devices (hoverboards) are strictly forbidden.