Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance Guide 2025 | Carry On and International Rules

Planning a smooth and stress-free trip begins with understanding the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance, especially if you want to avoid last-minute airport surprises and additional fees. With millions of travelers choosing Avianca each year across domestic and international networks, knowing exactly what sizes, weights, and special items are allowed can make your journey more efficient and budget-friendly.

In this guide, you will find every detail of the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance so you can pack confidently, travel smart, and enjoy every moment of your trip.

What You Need To Know About the Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance

The Avianca Airlines baggage allowance covers your personal item, carry-on, checked bags, special equipment, and restricted items.

• No matter your route or fare type, you always receive one free personal item, like a small backpack, purse, diaper bag, or laptop bag.

• Checked bags and carry-on bags depend on the cabin class and ticket you book.

• For most fare types (except the Basic / XS fare), you’re also allowed one carry-on bag.

• Checked baggage limits and fees depend on your fare (Classic, Flex, or Business) as well as your route (domestic vs international).

• You can add extra baggage during booking or online check-in, often at a much lower price than paying at the airport.

Avianca Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance and Hand Baggage Rules

When it comes to the Avianca Airlines carry-on baggage allowance, travelers can bring one cabin bag on most fares except Basic or XS fares.

• Carry-on dimensions: 55 × 35 × 25 cm (22 × 14 × 10 in), weight up to 10 kg (22 lb).

• Personal item dimensions: 45 × 35 × 20 cm (18 × 14 × 8 in).

The Avianca Airlines hand baggage allowance includes items you take into the cabin, such as backpacks, purses, and laptop bags. Within the aircraft, personal items must fit under the seat, while carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bins.

• Infants do not receive this allowance.

If your cabin bag exceeds the permitted size or weight under the Avianca Airlines carry-on baggage allowance, it may need to be checked with additional charges. On full flights, perfectly sized carry-ons might be gate-checked for free, so it’s good to place valuables in your personal item.

Also read How to Do Avianca Airlines Check In Easily

Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance International vs Domestic

The Avianca Airlines baggage allowance international and domestic rules share a similar structure but vary depending on fare type and route.

Checked baggage allowance

• Maximum size: 158 cm (62 in) linear (length + width + height).

• Maximum weight:

• Economy: up to 23 kg (50 lb)

• Business: up to 32 kg (70 lb)

Passengers flying on Avianca Airlines international routes may experience different fee tiers, especially when flying to or from Europe, Canada, and certain U.S. destinations. 

Which fares include checked baggage?

• Your Classic, Flex, or Business fare usually includes at least one checked bag.

• If you hold status with LifeMiles, Smiles, or Star Alliance Gold, you may be allowed extra baggage, so check your member benefits.

Swapping your first bag: If you’re flying Classic, Flex, or Business, you can replace your first included checked bag with sports equipment, as long as it stays within 23 kg and 158 cm. Oversized or overweight items beyond these limits will incur additional charges.

Important note for Bogotá flights: On international departures from Bogotá, Avianca does not accept wrapped baggage. This restriction helps with security and inspection procedures.

Additional Baggage Fees Under the Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance

If you need more than the free baggage allowance, Avianca lets you pay ahead, which is often cheaper and more convenient than paying at the airport. You can purchase additional pieces of baggage:

• Online during booking.

• Via “Manage My Booking”.

• During online check-in (up to 48 hours before your flight, or 24 hours for U.S. & Canada flights).

• At airport counters (higher fees).

Buying online is always the most cost-effective way to extend your Avianca Airlines baggage allowance. Domestic and international routes have tiered pricing for second and third bags. In some U.S.-bound routes, there are seasonal limits on how many extra pieces you can add, and space availability may apply for higher baggage counts. (Always check the current season rules.)

Oversized and Overweight Baggage:

Bags that exceed the standard Avianca Airlines baggage allowance can still be transported for an additional fee:

• For bags overweight above 23 kg or oversized above 158 cm, extra fees apply.

• On most routes, you can pay for overweight up to certain limits, but on European routes, you cannot exceed 32 kg per piece, even with payment.

• If your bag is very oversized (but not extreme), Avianca may still accept it, up to 230 cm total linear size and 45 kg (99 lb) on some routes.

• Be prepared for non-standard or oversized baggage. Avianca requires you to sign a limited liability certificate, noting that the airline is not responsible for damage in the hold.

Special Items, Sports Equipment, and Instruments:

Avianca considers several types of special baggage within the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance, including:

• Sports gear (skis, bicycles, surfboards, golf bags), musical instruments, antiques and works of art, mobility devices, wheelchairs, and more.

These items must meet size and weight limits. When used as your included checked bag under the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance, sports equipment is often accepted without additional charges.

Restricted and Dangerous Items:

Not everything can travel freely, as Avianca’s policy identifies several items that require special care or are completely restricted:

• Lithium batteries or electronic cigarettes, or power banks: These are not allowed in checked baggage. You must carry them in the cabin.

• Drones with batteries: If your battery is between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you need permission and must pack spare batteries carefully.

• Disallowed dangerous goods: Explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive materials, radioactive substances, and certain gases are prohibited.

• Combustion or fuel-cell engines (e.g., from small machinery): Must be emptied, purged, and verified with documentation to ensure no ignition risk.

Ensure your items comply with international air-transport regulations. Avianca may deny transport if items don’t meet its safety and packaging standards.

Also read Avianca Airlines Business Class Guide 2025

Liquids, Valuables, and Fragile Items in Hand Baggage

The Avianca Airlines hand baggage allowance includes rules on liquids and fragile items:

• Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less.

• All containers must fit in a 1-liter clear, resealable bag.

• Valuables should always be placed in your personal item.

• Up to 15 electronic devices are allowed in your hand luggage.

Duty-free items are allowed, with one bag permitted as a replacement for your personal item if within size limits.

Smart Packing Tips for the Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance

• Weigh your bags at home before departure.

• Buy additional baggage online for lower fees.

• Label your luggage clearly.

• Avoid wrapped baggage, especially when departing from Bogotá.

• Secure fragile items with proper padding.

• Remove straps or old tags to protect your luggage during handling.

These strategies help you maximize the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance and avoid unexpected costs.

FAQs About the Avianca Airlines Baggage Allowance

Q1. Does every fare include baggage?

All fares include one personal item. Carry-on and checked bags depend on the fare class under the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance structure.

Q2. How heavy can my checked bag be?

Economy allows up to 23kg, while Business permits up to 32 kg per piece.

Q3. Can I bring sports equipment?

Yes, many sports items can replace your included checked bag according to the Avianca Airlines baggage allowance rules.

Q4. Are lithium batteries allowed?

They must be carried in hand baggage and packed according to safety standards.

Q5. How do I add more baggage?

You can expand your Avianca Airlines baggage allowance through the website, during check-in, or at the airport.

Q6. Are musical instruments allowed?

Yes, when properly packed and within Avianca’s size limits.

Q7. What if my bag is too big or heavy?

Extra fees apply if you exceed the standard Avianca Airlines baggage allowance.

Final Thoughts and Why You Should Book with Flightsquest

Understanding the Avianca Airlines carry-on baggage allowance, along with the rules for checked and special items, helps you avoid surprises and travel with confidence. For long-haul routes, the Avianca Airlines international baggage allowance offers clear weight and size limits, making it easier to plan your luggage in advance. With the Avianca Airlines hand baggage allowance, you can keep your essentials close and enjoy a smoother journey from takeoff to landing.

If you want to book your Avianca flight, book with Flightsquest. We compare fares, show you exactly what baggage comes with your ticket, and remind you of add-on options, so there are no last-minute surprises. Start your search on Flightsquest today, pick the fare that fits your luggage needs, and travel worry-free.