Copa Airlines Baggage Policy and Carry-On Limits

If you’re getting ready to fly with Copa Airlines, knowing their baggage rules can make your trip a lot smoother. Copa, Panama’s flag carrier and a Star Alliance member, flies to over 80 destinations across the Americas. They updated their baggage policies on July 7, 2025, to better meet passenger needs. Millions of bags travel each year safely when the rules are followed, so understanding them can save you from extra fees that sometimes reach hundreds of dollars. Whether you’re flying economy or business, your baggage allowance depends on your fare, route, and loyalty status. Let’s go through everything step by step so you can pack smart and travel stress-free.

Checked Baggage Basics

Copa Airlines keeps its checked baggage rules simple and focused on safety. Your Copa Airlines baggage allowance applies to your entire trip and is assigned per passenger, so you can’t share it with others.

Since allowances vary by route and ticket type, it’s best to check Copa’s baggage calculator. Your limit depends on:

• Your origin and destination

• Fare type, such as economy or promo

• Your ConnectMiles PreferMember status

Size and Weight Limits

Each checked bag can measure up to 62 linear inches (height + length + width, wheels excluded).

• Bags between 63 and 115 inches are oversized and cost $150 per piece, plus other fees

• Bags larger than 115 inches must be shipped as cargo

Weight limits are:

• Many basic/economy fares include a free allowance of up to 23 kg per bag, while ConnectMiles PreferMembers (Silver, Gold, Platinum, Presidential) get up to 32 kg free per allowed piece.

• The absolute maximum weight per checked bag is 45 kg (overweight fees apply for 33–45 kg outside embargo periods; during embargoes, limited to 32 kg).

• Bags over 45 kg must go as cargo (strictly prohibited as baggage in the U.S. and Puerto Rico).

Overweight Fees:

Extra charges apply if your bag is overweight (note: no bag over 45 kg is accepted as baggage; must go as cargo. During embargo periods, overweight bags are not permitted at all.

• 24–32 kg: $100 international or $30 domestic

• 33–45 kg: $200 international or $60 domestic

These fees can stack up, so an overweight and oversized bag may cost up to $350. Prepaying during web check-in may help save money. Travelers from Venezuela get their first 23 kg checked bag free.

Book your Copa Airlines flight with Flightsquest today for expert help on baggage rules, smooth booking, and a worry-free travel experience from start to finish.

Seasonal Embargoes and Route-Specific Rules

The Copa Airlines international baggage policy includes temporary restrictions during peak travel periods to manage loads. These rules apply only on specific routes and dates.

Example Rules for Cuba:

On flights to Cuba (through December 31, 2026), all passengers can check up to three bags (with the third bag permitted as standard during this period).

• Overweight or oversized bags are not allowed.

• Boxes, sports equipment, or musical instruments can replace a standard bag if under 62 inches (158 cm).

Other Route-Specific Limits:

During embargo periods on affected routes (e.g., December to January 2026 on routes like Guatemala City to Washington, DC, or New York to Ecuador/Guayaquil), ConnectMiles PreferMembers Gold/Platinum/Presidential or Star Alliance Gold members may check up to three bags, but extra items like perishables or irregularly shaped items are not allowed.

Important Notes During Embargoes:

• Pets in the cabin are often not permitted.

• Perishable foods are restricted.

• For interline trips with other airlines, the baggage rules of the most significant carrier apply; check Star Alliance if needed.

• If traveling on separate bookings, you’ll need to reclaim and recheck your bags at connecting airports.

Complete your journey smoothly by following Copa Airlines check in steps online or at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Essentials

The Copa Airlines carry-on baggage policy is simple for all classes, including economy. Knowing these rules will help you avoid delays or extra fees at the airport.

What You Can Bring:

• One carry-on bag: up to 10 kg and 46 linear inches (22” high × 14” long × 10” wide). It must fit in the overhead bin, and you should be able to lift it yourself.

• One personal item: like a purse or laptop bag, up to 36 linear inches (17” high × 10” long × 9” wide), which fits under the seat.

Extras and Special Items:

• Coats or airport purchases can count as your personal item if they fit.

• For infants (under 2 years), one additional item is allowed beyond the adult's allowance: a diaper bag (must fit under the seat), a small fully folding stroller (if longer than 110 cm, it will be checked free), or an infant car seat (if a seat is purchased for the child).

• Mobility aids, such as canes or wheelchairs, are free and in addition to your allowance.

Overweight or Oversized Carry-On:

• If your carry-on exceeds the limits, it may be checked at the gate, with fees based on your ticket.

• On crowded flights, gate-checking may be done for free due to space.

Liquids, Gels, and Bulky Items:

• Liquids and gels must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a one-liter clear bag.

• Wedding dresses or bulky coats can replace your personal item if packed correctly.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety comes first in the Copa Airlines baggage policy. Some items are prohibited everywhere, including:

• Explosives

• Flammable gases

• Hazardous materials like certain pesticides or camping fuel

Special Rules for Certain Items:

• Lithium batteries: carry-on only, up to 20 spares under 100 watt-hours, protected from short circuits.

• Electronic cigarettes: allowed in carry-on, but no charging or use onboard.

Firearms and Ammunition:

• Can be checked if declared, unpacked, and permitted, with up to 5 kg of ammo per person.

• War weapons are never allowed, and some countries, like Guatemala or Colombia, require advance documents.

Liquids, Powders, and Dry Ice:

• Liquids over 100 ml must go in checked baggage.

• Powders over 12 ounces may need inspection.

• Dry ice for perishables is limited to 2.5 kg in vented packs.

Other Important Items:

• Foods must be sealed to avoid spills, but check destination rules.

• Smart bags: remove batteries for carry-on.

• Human remains require proper certificates and urns.

Always declare dangerous goods to avoid legal problems.

Avoid surprises and book through Flightsquest for expert guidance on Copa Airlines carry-on rules and a smooth travel experience.

Choose your preferred seat easily with Copa Airlines seat selection during booking or check in.

Special Baggage Handling

Copa Airlines has special rules for unique items to make traveling easier.

Sports Equipment:

• Small gear, like golf bags or tennis rackets, can replace a checked bag if under 45 kg and 115 inches.

• Fees: $150 if over the allowance; lower for domestic or Panama routes.

• Pack your gear securely, as the airline is not liable for damage.

• Large items, like surfboards or bikes, need advance reservation and secure packing (airline not liable for damage). Surfboards and similar items have per-passenger limits (e.g., up to 3 boards in one case).

Musical Instruments:

• Small instruments can be carried as carry-on if under 46 inches.

• Larger instruments can be checked up to 62 inches (158 cm linear) and 23 kg standard (up to 32 kg free for PreferMembers if within allowance; fees or oversized category for higher) in hard cases.

• During embargo periods, instruments can replace a standard checked bag.

Traveling with Pets

Copa allows pets under certain conditions to ensure comfort and safety.

• Small dogs and cats up to 10 kg (20 lb, including carrier) can fly in-cabin for $125 international (one-way, plus taxes), replacing your carry-on.

• The carrier must be soft, ventilated, and under 11 inches (28 cm) high.

• Only three pets per flight, so book early.

• Pets must be over 16 weeks old (24 weeks for U.S. routes), vaccinated, and with health certificates.

• Larger pets travel as cargo via Copa Pets.

• Service dogs fly free in any class with proper documents.

• Emotional support animals have limited acceptance (check route-specific rules).

• Restrictions apply during embargoes or on routes like Cuba.

• Country-specific rules apply (e.g., rabies vaccination/microchip for the U.S.).

Master Copa Airlines Baggage Rules Easily

Knowing the Copa Airlines international baggage policy helps you to avoid surprises and extra fees on overseas flights. Their Copa Airlines carry-on baggage policy is simple, allowing one bag plus a personal item. For economy travelers, the Copa Airlines baggage policy explains standard allowances and fees. Always check your Copa Airlines baggage allowance and follow Copa Airlines baggage rules. Sticking to the Copa Airlines carry-on policy ensures a smooth airport experience and a stress-free journey.

Book your Copa Airlines flight with Flightsquest today and get expert guidance on baggage rules, seamless check-in, and a stress-free travel experience from start to finish

FAQs About Copa Airlines Baggage Policy

Q1. How much luggage is allowed on Copa Airlines?

Economy passengers can check 1–2 bags up to 23 kg each. Allowance varies by fare, route, and ConnectMiles status.

Q2. What is the maximum weight allowed for Copa baggage?

Max checked bag: 45 kg absolute (fees 33–45 kg outside embargoes). Economy often 23 kg free/bag; PreferMembers 32 kg free. Embargoes: 32 kg max limit

Q3. What is the baggage allowance for international flights?

International flights usually allow 1–2 checked bags up to 23 kg each, plus one carry-on. Rules depend on fare and route.

Q4. Can I take two bags as hand luggage?

Yes, passengers can carry one bag up to 10 kg plus one personal item under 36 linear inches for overhead or under-seat storage.

Q5. Are oversized or extra bags allowed?

Oversized or extra baggage is allowed with prepayment. Fees depend on weight, size, and whether the flight is domestic or international.

Q6. Can I bring sports gear or musical instruments?

Small sports gear can replace a checked bag. Large items like surfboards or instruments need advance booking and may have fees.